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What Puts the Ache in Headache?

The ache in headache does not come from your brain-your brain cannot feel pain. For example, during brain surgery a patient may be wide awake, talking to the surgeons while his brain is being operated on (a local anesthetic numbs the scalp). What puts the “ache” in headache? Stretched, compressed, irritated, inflamed or infected blood vessels, membranes and cranial nerves.

ache in headache

The Chiropractic Approach

Millions of headache sufferers turn to the natural, drug-free chiropractic approach to health. (2) Why? Because chiropractic has a unique approach-chiropractors are the only health professionals trained to analyze your body for a serious and often ignored condition that can damage your nerves, inflame your tissues, cause muscles to tighten and knot, weaken your body, cause fatigue and set the stage for sickness and disease: the subluxation. A subluxation is a tiny distortion or misalignment in your spine that stresses your nervous system, the system that controls your body.

Patients who received chiropractic showed significant improvement, on a par with those given a powerful prescription drugs and without the side effects. (3) 

Anyone suffering from headaches (and any other condition) should make sure they are free from subluxations-for the health of their whole body, not just certain parts.

Make an appointment with Lanjo Chiro today! If you know someone who suffers from headaches, please share this resource with them.

(517) 627-4547

  1. https://www.aish.com/sp/dl/46123052.html
  2. Nilsson N, Christensen HW, Hartvigsen J. The effect of spinal manipulation in the treatment of cervicogenic headache. JMPT. 1997;20:326-330.
  3. Nelson CF, Bronfort G, Evans R et al. The efficacy of spinal manipulation, amitriptyline and the combination of both therapies for prophylaxis of migraine headache. JMPT. 1998;21(8):511-519. 

Can Chiropractic Help with PMS and Menstrual Cramps?

For many women, the days surrounding their monthly cycle can bring discomfort that interferes with work, family, and daily life. Cramps, bloating, irritability, and irregular timing are common complaints. Some women quietly accept this as “normal,” but it doesn’t have to be that way. A growing number have discovered that chiropractic care can make a real difference.

The Connection Between the Spine and Hormones

The nervous system controls the body’s hormonal signals, including those that regulate the menstrual cycle. If the spine is misaligned or under stress, communication between the brain and the reproductive organs may not flow smoothly. Gentle adjustments ease this tension, giving the nervous system a chance to function more effectively. Many women notice that their cycles become more regular, cramps lessen, and the intensity of PMS symptoms fades.

One patient described how her cramps were so intense that she had to miss school and later workdays. After beginning regular chiropractic visits, she noticed the pain was less intense, and she no longer needed to rely on over-the-counter medication to get through the week. Stories like hers are common in chiropractic offices.

Relief Through Releasing Tension

The pelvis and lower spine are areas that carry physical and emotional strain. When the muscles and ligaments in this region are tight, blood flow can be restricted and discomfort amplified during menstruation. Adjustments that release this stress often bring a surprising sense of relief. Women frequently report that their posture feels easier, their lower back less achy, and their cycles less disruptive.

A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that women with primary dysmenorrhea (painful periods without underlying disease) experienced decreased pain intensity following chiropractic care [1]. This research supports what many have already observed in practice.

A Natural Approach

Chiropractic does not add anything artificial to the body. Instead, it works with the body’s own ability to heal and regulate itself. By reducing nerve interference and pelvic tension, the body has a better chance to balance hormones naturally and ease the monthly burden. For women who prefer to avoid medications or who have not found relief elsewhere, this approach can be life-changing.

Many women are surprised to learn that menstrual health and spinal health are closely connected. They often come into the office for unrelated issues like headaches or back pain, only to find their cycles improve as a welcome side benefit. For others, seeking help for cramps is the main reason they walk through the door. Either way, their experiences highlight the body’s remarkable ability to restore balance when given the right support.

Make an appointment with Lanjo Chiro today!

(517) 627-4547

  1. Hondras, M. A., Long, C. R., Brennan, P. C. (1999). Spinal manipulation, medication, and pain relief for menstrual pain: a randomized, controlled trial. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 22(9), 582-585.

From Head to Toe: Surprising Conditions Helped by Chiropractic

Most people connect chiropractic care with back or neck discomfort, but many are surprised to learn that adjustments can influence health in areas far beyond the spine. Because the nervous system controls every function of the body, changes in spinal alignment may relieve stress on nerves and restore communication to tissues that seem unrelated to the back. Patients often report improvements in unexpected ways.

From Head to Toe: Surprising Conditions Helped by Chiropractic

Relief in the feet and hands

Plantar fasciitis can make every step miserable. The fascia of the foot is closely tied to posture and spinal alignment. When stress in the lower back and pelvis is corrected, pressure on the feet can ease. Some patients notice less morning stiffness and are able to return to walking or standing for more extended periods without discomfort.

Carpal tunnel is another condition that has shown improvement with adjustments. By addressing the wrist, elbow, shoulder, and spinal segments of the neck, many patients regain strength in the hand and notice less tingling or numbness.

Help for children and adults alike.

Parents are often surprised when ear infections improve after chiropractic visits. The upper neck and its relationship to the muscles around the Eustachian tube can influence drainage in the ear. Gentle adjustments for children may support this natural function. Some parents report fewer recurrences and less need for antibiotics.

Digestive complaints, such as reflux, have also been observed to improve with chiropractic care. The nerves controlling the stomach and diaphragm exit through the mid-back. When those spinal segments move better, patients often share that their digestion feels calmer and less irritated.

Beyond the expected

Stories continue to surface about improvements in breathing, sinus congestion, menstrual discomfort, and even balance after adjustments. While chiropractic is not a cure for every ailment, the nervous system’s wide influence means that almost any area of the body may respond in positive ways. Research has documented a reduction in symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux in children receiving adjustments, reinforcing what many patients already experience in practice [1].

Chiropractic care is more than “just for backs.” It supports the body’s natural ability to heal by restoring clear communication between the spine, nerves, and every organ they reach. Patients who explore care often discover unexpected benefits from head to toe.

Make an appointment with Lanjo Chiro today!

(517) 627-4547

1.Dobson, D., Lucier, M., Miller, J., & O’Connor, S. (2019). The effect of chiropractic care on pediatric patients with gastroesophageal reflux: A case series. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 42(6), 482-487

Why Athletes Swear by Chiropractic

Usain Bolt, the fastest man in the world, and Tiger Woods, one of the greatest golfers in history, have both credited chiropractic care for keeping their bodies in top form. They know that small improvements in coordination, flexibility, and recovery can make the difference between winning and losing. But the benefits these athletes enjoy are not reserved for those at the top of their sport.

Why Athletes Swear by Chiropractic

Weekend runners, young athletes, and even dancers can benefit from the same care that keeps champions moving. Chiropractic is about keeping the nervous system clear and allowing the body to function at its best. When joints are moving correctly, muscles fire more efficiently, and reaction time improves. That is why athletes across disciplines return to chiropractic week after week.

Performance and Recovery

Athletes push their bodies to the limit, and they need every system working together. Chiropractic care helps reduce interference in the nervous system, which in turn supports better muscle coordination and balance. Research has shown that regular care can improve reaction time and power output [1] These are not abstract advantages; they translate directly into faster sprints, smoother jumps, and sharper cuts on the field.

Recovery is just as important. Micro-strains, fatigue, and soreness can slow down training schedules and cut into performance. Chiropractic care helps restore proper joint function, easing stress on muscles and ligaments so the body can recover more quickly. That means fewer days lost to stiffness or discomfort, and more days doing what people love.

Everyday Athletes

It is not only professionals who rely on this kind of edge. The parent who plays in a weekend softball league, the high school soccer player, or the adult who enjoys dance classes can all see benefits. When the body is aligned, workouts feel smoother, endurance improves, and recovery takes less time. Minor tweaks that enhance performance in professionals can help keep everyday athletes active and prevent setbacks.

Athletes at every level want to move better, stay strong, and recover quickly. Chiropractic is one of the tools that makes that possible.

Make an appointment with Lanjo Chiro today!

(517) 627-4547

10 Reasons Parents Take Their Children to See a Chiropractor

As parents, we want nothing more than to see our children thrive—healthy, happy, and full of potential. From the very first days of life, every choice we make can shape their growth, their wellbeing, and even the way their brains and bodies develop. Supporting your child’s health goes far beyond just “getting through the day.” It’s about giving them the strongest foundation possible so they can flourish now and in the future. Whether it’s easing those long, colicky nights, strengthening immunity, or nurturing emotional balance, small, thoughtful steps can have a lasting impact on their overall wellbeing.

10 Reasons Parents Take Their Children to See a Chiropractor

  1. To maximise their child’s neural plasticity (brain and nerve development). 
  2. To enhance their child’s overall health and wellbeing. 
  3. To strengthen immunity and reduce the incidence of colds, ear-aches and general illness. 
  4. To help with colic and Irritable Baby Syndrome. 
  5. To help with asthma, breathing difficulties and allergies. 
  6. To improve spinal posture. 
  7. To improve their child’s ability to concentrate. 
  8. To assist with behavioral disorders and enhance emotional wellbeing. 
  9. To help alleviate digestive problems.
  10. To assist with bed-wetting and sleep issues. 

Your child’s health is their greatest asset

Your child’s health is their greatest asset, and investing in it early helps them grow into resilient, confident, and vibrant individuals. By supporting their body, mind, and emotions, you’re not only addressing today’s challenges—you’re giving them tools to thrive for a lifetime. Remember, even the simplest actions done with love and care can make all the difference.

Make an appointment with Lanjo Chiro today!

(517) 627-4547

Chiropractic Adjustments vs. Massage: Why They’re Not the Same

After a long week of working hunched over a desk, Jim scheduled a massage. The tension melted from his shoulders. But a week later, the pain returned. That’s when his chiropractor explained that something he hadn’t considered, what he felt in his muscles was only part of the picture.

Chiropractic Adjustments vs. Massage

Muscles vs. Nervous System

Massage therapy focuses on muscles, circulation, and soft tissue. It’s excellent for relaxation, easing tightness, and promoting better blood flow. Most people feel lighter and more limber after a good massage. But it doesn’t correct spinal misalignments, nor does it address how the spine communicates with the nervous system.

A chiropractic adjustment aims deeper. It restores motion and position to the joints of the spine, especially where there’s been a loss of function or pressure on nerves. When those misalignments are corrected, it affects how the brain and body talk to each other. That’s not just about pain, it’s about balance, coordination, digestion, sleep, and more.

One patient described it this way: “After a massage, I feel relaxed. After an adjustment, I feel like I’m plugged back in.”

Short-Term Relief vs. Long-Term Change

Massage therapy often brings temporary comfort. But if joints are stuck or the spine isn’t moving properly, the muscles can’t fully relax, no matter how often they’re massaged. They’ll tighten back up to protect the area. It’s a loop: tension returns, the cycle repeats.

An adjustment breaks that loop. When the joint moves the way it’s supposed to, the muscles can finally stop compensating. That’s when real change happens. People often notice their posture improves, their body feels more “in sync,” and they can go longer between visits.

Massage is excellent for soothing. Adjustments are better for correcting. That’s why they work so well together, but they’re not interchangeable.

According to a 2010 study published in The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, spinal adjustments have measurable effects on nervous system function, particularly in how the brain processes movement and body [1].

The Right Tool for the Job

It’s not a matter of which is better. It’s about what your body needs. If you’re stiff from stress or sore from overuse, massage can be a welcome reset. But if your spine is misaligned and your nervous system isn’t firing right, that’s a job for the chiropractor.

The best results often come when both are used strategically-but it starts by understanding that they do very different things.

Looking for a new chiropractor?

Schedule an appointment with Lanjo Chiro Today!

517.627.4547

  1. Haavik, H., & Murphy, B. (2010). The effects of spinal manipulation on sensory processing, motor output, functional performance, and sensorimotor integration in the central nervous system: A narrative literature review. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 33(5), 336-343.

Backpack Safety: Protecting Spines at Every Age

Back-to-school season means fresh supplies, exciting routines, and of course—the trusty backpack. Backpacks are practical, stylish, and help kids (and adults!) carry what they need. But when used incorrectly, they can also create unnecessary strain on the back, shoulders, and neck.

The good news? With a few simple adjustments in how we choose, pack, and wear backpacks, we can prevent pain and protect posture for years to come.

backpack safety

Why Backpack Safety Matters

Backpacks are designed to evenly distribute weight across the body, which makes them safer than carrying a purse or briefcase. But when overloaded or worn incorrectly, they can cause real problems. According to the American Chiropractic Association, more than 5,000 backpack-related injuries are treated in U.S. emergency rooms each year.

Heavy packs can cause children (and adults) to slump their shoulders, arch their backs, or lean forward unnaturally. This puts strain on the spine and muscles, leading to soreness or even long-term posture issues. Kids who sling their backpacks over one shoulder may also develop imbalances that affect their back, shoulders, and neck.

backbacks

The Right Weight

A backpack should never exceed 10–15% of the carrier’s body weight. For example, a child weighing 80 pounds should not carry more than 8–12 pounds. Checking weight with a bathroom scale can help keep loads in the safe zone.

Encourage kids to unload unnecessary items daily—extra books, electronics, or gear can add hidden pounds that don’t need to be there.

backpacks

Fit and Features that Make a Difference

When shopping for a backpack, look for these supportive features:

  • Lightweight design: Leather may look sharp but adds extra pounds compared to canvas.

  • Two wide, padded straps: Narrow straps can dig into shoulders.

  • A padded back: Adds comfort and protects from sharp objects inside.

  • A waist or chest belt: Helps distribute weight evenly.

  • Multiple compartments: Keeps weight balanced and organized.

Proper fit is just as important:

  • The backpack should rest in the middle of the back—not sagging near the hips.

  • Straps should be snug but comfortable. Loose straps force kids to lean forward, creating strain.

  • Always use both straps—even if one-shoulder carrying feels “cooler.”

backpacks 3

Smart Packing and Carrying

Packing a backpack correctly makes a big difference:

  • Place heavier items (like textbooks or laptops) closest to the back panel.

  • Use compartments to distribute weight evenly.

  • Encourage kids to bend at the knees and lift their pack with both hands—just like lifting any heavy object.

If the load is consistently too much, rolling backpacks or sharing materials can reduce the strain.

Building Healthy Habits

Healthy backpack use is a team effort:

What Kids Can Do:

  • Use lockers and desks to avoid carrying everything at once.

  • Bring home only what’s needed for homework.

  • Regularly check posture—rounded shoulders or leaning forward is a red flag.

What Parents and Schools Can Do:

  • Encourage “backpack checks” at home.

  • Advocate for lighter materials, such as paperback books.

  • Support digital curriculum where possible.

  • Remind kids that caring for their spine is just as important as caring for their grades.

When to Seek Help

If your child frequently complains of back, shoulder, or neck pain, or you notice persistent posture changes, it may be time for a professional evaluation. Gentle adjustments, posture checks, and personalized guidance can help ease discomfort and prevent further issues.

Concerned about your child’s posture or backpack strain? Call 517.627.4547 today to schedule an evaluation. A healthy back today means a stronger future tomorrow.

Breathe Easier: How Chiropractic Can Help Open the Chest and Lungs

When Breathing Feels Restricted

Years ago, a woman named Carol went into a chiropractic office with persistent shortness of breath. She didn’t have a lung infection or a diagnosis of asthma, but breathing deeply made her chest ache. Her posture was slouched, her shoulders pulled forward, and her upper back was stiff. When she inhaled, it looked like her rib cage barely moved. After a few visits focusing on the upper thoracic spine and rib joints, her breathing began to ease. She noticed that she could take fuller breaths, her neck tension had lessened, and her energy had improved.

The Spine-Rib Connection to Lung Function

Most people think about lungs and airways when they hear “breathing trouble.” However, the ability to breathe deeply also depends significantly on posture and the flexibility of the spine and rib cage. The lungs can only expand as far as the rib cage allows. When the mid and upper back get locked up-often from too much sitting, stress, or injury-the rib cage stiffens, making each breath shallow.

Nervous System Involvement

The diaphragm, your primary breathing muscle, also relies on the spine to function properly. The nerve that powers the diaphragm (the phrenic nerve) travels from the neck to the chest. Tension and restrictions in the neck and upper back can impede this pathway, resulting in inefficient breathing patterns.

Releasing Tension and Improving Posture

Asthma, anxiety, and chronic stress often show up as tight chests, elevated shoulders, and shallow, rapid breathing. People don’t always realize how much tension they’re holding in their ribs and back until it’s released. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore normal motion in the spine and ribs that have become restricted. Once the joints start moving again, posture improves naturally, the chest opens up, and breathing often feels easier and more relaxed.

Better Breathing, Better Living

Improved breathing isn’t just about comfort. Better airflow means more oxygen to the brain and body, supporting mental clarity, digestion, sleep, and even mood. People often report feeling lighter, calmer, and more alert after having their upper spine and rib cage adjusted.

One study found that spinal adjustments in the thoracic region improved lung function in healthy young adults, suggesting that mechanical changes in the spine and the removal of interferences can have a measurable impact on respiratory performance (1).

Not every breathing issue is caused by spinal tension, but for many, unlocking the thoracic spine and improving posture helps restore natural, deep breathing. People are often surprised by how much better they feel when they can finally take a full breath again.

Call us today to make an appointment and breathe easier! 

(517) 627-4547

  1. Kong, Y.S., Song, Y.K., & Shin, W.S. (2013). Changes in pulmonary function after thoracic spine mobilization and manipulation in healthy young adults. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 25(4), 425-427.

How Chiropractic Care Affects Digestion, Immunity, and Hormones

Most people don’t think about their spine when dealing with digestive issues, fatigue, or hormone imbalances. But the spine does far more than support the body’s structure-it’s the main channel through which the nervous system sends signals. When that communication breaks down, a range of problems can appear: slowed digestion, weakened immune response, and hormone irregularities.

One patient-a young woman-originally came in for back discomfort. Over time, without changing her diet or routine, she noticed her digestion improved. Bloating disappeared, stomach aches subsided, and she felt more energetic. The only shift in her life was regular chiropractic adjustments. Her experience reflects what many have found: when nervous system function is restored, the body begins to regulate itself more efficiently.

The nervous system influences everything from intestinal movement to immune system readiness to hormone release. Spinal misalignments, known in chiropractic as subluxations, can interfere with these vital signals. They don’t always cause pain but disrupt how the body works. With gentle adjustments, chiropractors aim to restore that flow, allowing the body to function as intended. (1)

Another example involved a father of three who constantly battled colds and sinus congestion. After a few months of chiropractic care, he noticed he wasn’t getting sick-even when his kids brought home the usual school-time bugs. His immune system seemed to be working more effectively. That shift wasn’t about boosting anything artificially but clearing the nervous system so it could do its job without interference.

Hormonal changes are often mentioned, too. Some women report a more regular menstrual cycle after beginning care. Others say they sleep better, feel calmer, or experience more emotional balance. These aren’t promises-they’re observations from people who notice what happens when their bodies start communicating better.

People often come in expecting one thing to improve and are surprised when something else shifts, too. It’s not a coincidence. The body is connected in ways that aren’t always obvious, and removing pressure from the nervous system can have a ripple effect on digestion, immunity, and hormone balance.

The body is built to heal and self-regulate. Chiropractic care doesn’t add anything new to the system; it simply helps remove what’s getting in the way.

Want to Experience Healing in Real Life?

Call us to make an appointment. We’d love to see you! 517.627.4547

  1. Kent, C. (1996). Models of vertebral subluxation: A review. Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 1(1), 1-7.

Why Every Pregnant Woman Should See a Chiropractor

During pregnancy, many women have trouble sleeping, pressure in the hips, and occasional sciatica that can make everyday movement uncomfortable. Some discover that visiting a chiropractor brings significant relief. One mother described how, after a few visits, her body felt more balanced, her discomfort eased, and her sleep improved. She noticed she could breathe more deeply and move more freely, even late in the third trimester.

As the baby grows, posture shifts, ligaments loosen, and the spine compensates. These changes are part of the body’s natural preparation for birth, but they can also create stress in the spine and nervous system. Chiropractic adjustments help reduce that stress, allowing the body to adapt more comfortably.

Pregnant women often report feeling more centered and stable after an adjustment. Many say their hips feel better aligned, and their belly carries more evenly. Others notice improved sleep, fewer aches, and a stronger sense of connection to their changing bodies. Rather than focusing only on relief from discomfort, chiropractic care supports the body’s ability to function well throughout pregnancy.

A key benefit is the support chiropractic provides to the nervous system. The spine protects the communication pathways between the brain and the body. The function can be affected when these pathways are irritated or under pressure. By gently adjusting the spine, chiropractors help restore proper communication, which may improve digestion, energy levels, and overall ease.

Some women also find that regular care encourages better fetal positioning. One mother shared that her baby had settled heavily on one side in her third trimester. After a few targeted adjustments, the baby shifted and remained more balanced. She described the change as feeling “lighter,” as if her body had made space where needed.

Research supports these experiences. A 2007 review published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care during pregnancy may reduce back pain, improve overall comfort, and even lessen the need for pain medications during labor (1).

Chiropractic care during pregnancy isn’t only about addressing discomfort-it’s about helping the body work the way it was designed to. As the body makes room for new life, chiropractic can support that process by keeping the spine and nervous system clear and responsive.

Every pregnant woman deserves to feel strong, supported, and in tune with her body. Gentle, thoughtful adjustments can make a meaningful difference in how a woman experiences her pregnancy and prepares for birth. For many, that difference is not just physical but deeply reassuring.

Make an Appoinment today!

Call us to make an appointment. We’d love to see you! 517.627.4547

  1. Borggren, C. L. (2007). Pregnancy and chiropractic: a narrative review of the literature. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 30(6), 447-453.