5 Tips To Create Your Best Workstation!
March 16, 2010
A common question we hear is “What is the best chair for me at work?” The reality is that there isn’t a chair that will prevent the damage done to our bodies from being sedentary. No one chair fits everyone and we should only be sitting an hour (maximum!) before we take a break! Here are five tips you can use to make sure you are not hurting yourself at work.
1. 90 degree rule. Your hips and knees should make 90 degree angles when you are sitting back in your chair. Usually you will have a fixed desk height so you may need to add a block under your feet if you are shorter.
2. Support your arms. Use a chair with adjustable armrests. If this is not possible, move your keyboard into your lap so your arms can rest comfortably in your lap on the keyboard.
3. Make sure your monitor is at eye level. Have a co -worker/spouse look at you from the side and confirm that you are not looking down at your monitor. This will cause undue stress and strain on your neck.
4.Make sure to drop your shoulders when you are sitting and remember to breathe! When stress hits, our shoulders become earrings and we breathe very shallowly. To reduce the effects of stress on our bodies, we need to be mindful of our breathing at all times.
5. Take breaks every 30 minutes. Look up, grasp your hands together behind your back and pull your shoulder blades together as you stretch on your way to grab more water or to the restroom. Set a timer across the room if you need to so you at least have to get up to reset it.
If you need further help with your workstation please do not hesitate to contact us at 408-979-9999.
Why Is Proper Fit Important?
March 15, 2010
Outside of the improved self image and comfort of a bra that fits the needs of her wearer, there are specific health issues to wearing a bra that is appropriate for size, shape and body type. The three most important issues I come upon are slipping bra straps leading to shoulder and back pain; poor fitting bras leading to poor posture and pain; and the delicate issue of finding the right fit for breast cancer survivors.
Does it seem like no matter how much you tighten your bra straps they keep sliding off your shoulders? Are you hunched over to try and keep your straps up? Do you have tightness in your neck and shoulders because its hard to keep your straps secure.
There are a few reasons this could be happening. If your bra is more than a year old, the elasticity is probably gone and its time to invest in a new one. For someone with a band size of 38 or higher or a cup size of D or higher, the replacement time is even shorter.
Have you been fitted by a professional fitter recently? If you are wearing a band size that is too large and compensating with a cup size that is too small, you may think you have a good fit but you do not. The bra straps will not line up at the right spot and they will slip off.
Straps should be snug but you should also be able to run a finger under the strap smoothly. Too tight is just as bad as too loose.
No breast is exactly the same…even on the same body! It is very possible that straps will have different adjustments on each side. Adjust each strap for comfort and so that it sits securely without causing bulging or gapping in the cup or slipping straps.
Some of us are lucky enough to have very narrow or sloped shoulders. Try a bra with a J-clip or criss-cross straps!
I am not a fan of minimizer bras. I understand that there are certain times that they work with an outfit. So wear them with that outfit and find a supportive bra to wear the rest of the time! One day, I got a call from a client who asked if I could fit her mother. Her mother is a beautiful woman and I could immediately see why she was so uncomfortable!
She was wearing a minimizer bra. The bra was “smushing down” her breast tissue. After wearing this particular style of minimizer for a number of years, the elasticity was gone from her breast tissue. The bra straps were cutting into her shoulders and she was hunched forward. As soon as I fit in her a bra that was close to her size, her back straightened but her right shoulder was completely (and very noticeably) out of alignment! Please, ladies, don’t let someone you love wear a minimizer bra! They are bad news for breast, neck and back health! With the help of her chiropractor and the support of a well fitting and appropriate bra, I am happy to say that when I saw her a few months later for a refit, she was a different body!
In my line of work, there is nothing more gratifying than working with breast cancer survivors. That every woman’s body is unique is never more true than with the exceptional women who are members of this extraordinary class! And what the marketplace has offered thus far in terms of bras is shameful! Ladies who have had surgery, lumpectomy or reconstruction have a difficult time finding a bra that naturalizes their look in their clothing. While some women require custom bras, many women are thankfully now finding bras which offer a seamless and moulded cup help give them back their natural shape and contour. It is most important to be certain that the bra selected gives good support to the remaining tissue. The best way to ensure great fit is to first talk with your doctor and then find a bra fitter that is knowledgeable and be willing to experiment until you find just the right bra.
No matter what your fit challenge, take heart. There is help. There are styles and products to meet every need. Email me at laurabeth@glamourbylbd.com. We will find a solution. There is simply no reason to put up with the frustration and discomfort of slipping straps!
Visit GlamourByLBD online at www.glamourbylbd.com. And, If you become a fan of the GlamourByLBD Facebook Page at http://tinyurl.com/glamourfan between now and March 31st, GlamourByLBD will donate $1 for each fan to the Avon 3-Day.
Terrific New Massage Therapist-Lacy Young!
February 15, 2010
Many of you have already met our new massage therapist, Lacy Young and we wanted to give her some space to tell you more about herself!
Lacy is passionate about wellness and believes strongly in the healing combination of massage and chiropractic care to foster total health. Offering 30 and 60 minute sessions Lacy will customize a massage that is right for your body using a blend of Swedish, deep tissue and acupressure. Lacy draws from her experience and knowledge of the body as a yoga teacher and practitioner to promote healing.
Lacy Young
A born creative, Lacy loves all things crafty and has been making custom mini albums for lacylike.com customers since it’s launch in 2008. She started practicing yoga in college and says that it was “sweaty love at first class.” A yoga teacher since 2003, massage therapist since 2005 Lacy is adding holistic health counselor to her wellness toolbox this year (2010) as she completes her training at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition.
Lacy lives in the Bay Area with her husband Cliff and two fur face kids.
lacylike.com is the current online home for creative designer, yogi, massage therapist and nutritional counselor, Lacy Young
More Energy and Happier too!
February 15, 2010
Here’s a great story from one of our practice members who came in for a complaint and found other “side effects” from being under chiropractic care!
When I first went to visit them late last year, my neck and upper back were constantly stiff and I only sought relief from that condition. What I received was not only more flexibility and relief, but a gradual increase in mood and energy. It was subtle and it wasn’t until about 6-9 weeks that I realized it, but when I did it was wonderful!
Additionally my husband had chronic pain between his shoulder blades and under the care of Drs. Rozehnart, the pain and discomfort disappeared. Even my 25-year-old son experienced greater range of motion and an overall sense of well-being after only a few visits!
Their open, honest and caring practice truly embodies the spirit of aloha and I can’t recommend them highly enough.
You don’t have to live with discomfort. Get relief. Call them today. you’ll be glad you did. *:-)”
What Treatment for Back Pain Works Best?
October 21, 2009
“Treatment” implies that there is a disease, or illness or sickness that the treatment is healing. The body heals itself, it happens no other way. There are many ways to get out of pain- massage therapy, acupuncture, herbs, homeopathy, medication, physical therapy and the list could go on and on. In order to achieve maximum healing the “treatment” must stimulate the body’s innate/vital force in some way. The “treatment” we use in chiropractic is the adjustment. The specific, gentle adjustment releases your body’s innate healing capacity so that it can begin the healing process.
Ask yourself ”What is the pain trying to tell me?” Our bodies never waste energy giving us a signal for no reason. Pain has at least 2 purposes. It lets us know something is wrong and it prevents us from hurting ourselves further.
When you choose to block pain signals with medication it may “feel better” temporarily however, the long term consequences from blocking signals from the body can be far worse than the original complaint. Think of it this way- your house is on fire, you hear the smoke detector alarm, but it is so irritating that you just have to make it stop! You decide to take the batteries out of the smoke detector and go back to bed. The more we ignore the signals, the more likely the problem will continue and your “house” may burn down!
If you are suffering please call Cate at 408-979-9999 to find out how effective, gentle chiropractic care can help you!
25 Years of Headaches…Gone!
September 30, 2009
This testimonial came from one of our amazing practice members who we feel so grateful to serve. The gift of chiropractic we get to share with people every day is what we are the most grateful for.
“As I write this, my eyes well with tears from the gratitude I have. I have
suffered from severe migraines off and on for 25 years, as well as
headaches several times a week. My neck hurt, my shoulders hurt, my
lower back hurt, my hips hurt … just name a place that didn’t hurt! I
have hated taking prescription medications to relieve me of my
migraines, but didn’t know what else to do. I thought it was just
tension, and that I had no alternative but to medicate myself during
these episodes.
I had heard so many wonderful things about these ladies, that I finally
decided I should go and have them assess me. All I can say, is that I’m
very lucky I did. I have 3 areas, ranging from my neck to hips, that
are extremely out of alignment. I saw the x-rays for myself, and there
is no pill that can fix that! I began having adjustments 2 weeks ago,
and I cannot tell you how I have improved in that short amount of time!
The pain I’ve been experiencing has been significantly reduced, and I
haven’t had ANY headaches. This is like a miracle to me after so many
years of suffering. My body is responding so well to their adjustments,
it’s almost as if it’s been WAITING for them to correct it.
I have several months to go before they’ll have me straightened out (so
to speak!), but I am committed to getting my strength and energy back.
These ladies are TRULY committed to their patients, and CARE about their
health, happiness and well-being, not just in the present, but for the
rest of their lives. At the risk of going on and on, I asked Dr.
Stephanie today about some wrist pain I’ve had since breaking a bone 3
years ago. She gave me a couple of adjustments, it instantly felt
better, and she said they will keep an eye on it. I hadn’t even
mentioned my wrist during my initial exams, so this just shows that they
really do want me to feel great all over, and will make sure that happens!
If you are experiencing ANY pain, even if you think a chiropractor can’t
possibly help you, please do yourself a favor and see the Rozenhart’s.
You might just be surprised!
With thanks,
Kathy”
Excessive Sitting Costs America Billions!
September 29, 2009
The Bottom Line On Sitting
It’s not your work that’s killing you. It’s the sitting. Millions of people working from their home and offices spend way too much time in their chairs. A habit that can lead to more than just a numb bum!
Too much sitting sets you up for a host of physical problems including poor circulation, chronic back and nerve pain, depression, osteoporosis, swollen spinal disks, fatigue and many other health problems. Women should be especially alerted as they are more likely than men to hold jobs requiring them to sit the majority of the time.
Stand Up for Yourself Health Savers
The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports has coined its own term for “sitting sickness”. It recently identified Sedentary Death Syndrome (SeDS) as a growing life-threatening risk for many unsuspecting Americans. No need to worry though. You can stand strong against SeDS and other workplace “bummers” with these ten Health Savers:
50/10 Rule: don’t sit for more than 50 minutes. Set a timer and take ten when it rings.
- Be a swinger: Stand with hands on your hips and legs slightly more than shoulder width apart. Rotate hips clockwise in a full range of motion ten times. Reverse it. Second, stand next to your desk. Put all your weight on the right leg and gently swing the left leg in front of and behind you 10X. Repeat with other leg.
- Don’t Be a Crooked Sitter or Sloucher
- Take your lunch break: Get up and go somewhere even if you bring something in.
- Go mobile: attach a portable unit to your stationary phone or use a cell.
- Hold “meetings on the move”: meet clients on a hiking trail or outdoors.
- Put a lumbar PILLOW in Your Chair
- Invest in an ergonomic chair
- Stand up and surf: raise your Workstation or monitor so you can net surf and type while standing.
- Go To The Gym- But Stay Off the Stationary Bike
- SEE YOUR CHIROPRACTOR FOR PREVENTATIVE CARE.
Be Kind to Your Spine
Sitting is to the spine like sugar is to the teeth. Make sure you receive regular chiropractic check-ups and adjustments. These gentle realignments of the spine can re-enforce the structure and stamina of your circulatory, central nervous and muscular systems. You can also ask your chiropractor about nutritional, exercise, stretching and hydration techniques. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a ton of NOT having to find a cure. So, stand up for yourself.
The Top Ten Reasons Not To Ignore a Backache!
September 11, 2009
10. The straw will break the camel’s back
One too many straws??
We’ve all heard the expression “the straw that broke the camel’s back.” This is so true for too many people who ignore minor spine problems. One day they do something silly, like bend down to tie their shoe and they can’t get up. Major problems are much more painful and expensive to care for.
9. The times that you need your spine the most will be the time that it will tend to give out on you
If you neglect your spine, you can be sure that when you need it the most due to stress, physical activity, business or pleasure travel, or a big game-it gives out on you. Regular adjustments as a part of your lifestyle can keep you healthy and prevent these inconvenient episodes from putting a damper on your life.
8. Nerve pressure can exist without pain
Pain is not a good indicator of how healthy or unhealthy your spine is. Spinal examinations such as posture, weight balance, palpation, muscle testing, computer scans and x-rays are much better indicators about the health of your spine. Pain is usually the last to show up and the first to be relieved when you begin care. If you experience pain or know someone experiencing pain, there is a problem that needs attention.
7. Nerves supply your whole body, not just your muscles
Your spine protects your nerve system, the master control center of your body. Energy flows over your nerves to provide communication between every cell of your body and your brain. The pathway in your spine must be clear for the messages to get through. If you have a backache, or have had one in the past that has not been corrected, than the underlying cause could be affecting the function of vital organs and systems, leading to an even more severe problem than a backache. And don’t forget number 8 above.
6. Deterioration can begin within 2 weeks
Researchers in Finland found that when the spine is misaligned it can begin to deteriorate within 2 weeks. Think about how many two weeks go by from birth to age one, especially if there was a traumatic delivery. How many two weeks are there from a childhood fall to age 50? Is it any wonder why more than 15 million people are diagnosed with osteoarthritis each year?
5. Grandma and Grandpa didn’t wake up crooked one day. They grew that way over time
This goes along with number 6. Over time, deterioration causes the spine to wear down unevenly, not because of age but because it is misaligned. Just like the tires on your car wear down unevenly when they are misaligned, the same can happen in your spine. You may have some areas in your spine that look like they are 80 years old while you have other areas that are more like a 30 year old. Both in the same spine! It only takes one bad area to ruin your life.
4. Your quality of life depends on a healthy spine
If you want to be healthy and active as you age, you have got to have a healthy spine and nerve system. Period.
3. Good posture keeps you young and attractive
When your body becomes bent over and crooked, you will look and feel old and decrepit. If you keep you posture and your spine straight and strong, you will stay healthy, young and attractive. Many people attempt to use facelifts to preserve their youthful appearance as they age. A facelift would look silly on a person whose spine was bent over and mangled due to neglect.
2. You can’t afford to get sick or injured
Now more than ever, you cannot afford to get sick. Crisis care costs are astronomical. Back pain alone costs the US over $90 billion per year. An ounce of prevention is worth a ton of cure.
1. Because your chiropractor cares
Our office sees too many people who wait until it’s too late or they experience intense pain and suffering before they begin care. Don’t let this happen to you. Make an appointment for a spinal examination today.
Call Cate at 408-979-9999 so we can help you too!
What To Look For When Looking For The Best Chiropractor
August 24, 2009
When searching for a chiropractor how do you know you are calling a great one? Usually, asking a friend or family member who is happy with their chiropractor is a great way to start. However, what if you are new to the area or you don’t know anyone who sees a chiropractor? Start on the internet and then call those offices that are close to you. The best indicator that you have called a caring, competent office is a well trained, happy person answering the phone.
Here is the friendly voice you will hear on the phone!
You will want to find a chiropractor who stays on the cutting edge of research and technology. Do they have a website? Do they use any technology to assess you? Do they use X-rays to get a look inside? Does the Doctor perform an evaluation before any care is rendered? Does the Chiropractor tell you what’s wrong, how they can help and what a care plan is before care is rendered? When you meet with the Doctor, are you listened to? Do you feel cared about?
Many people are concerned about finances when they call offices and call around to price compare or to see who will be covered by their insurance. A word of caution here, the old saying of “you get what you pay for” is even true in health care. What we have found to be true is that doctors who don’t participate in insurance plans are able to give you the care you truly need without being severely limited by insurance regulators.
To find out if we can help you and how we can be your chiropractor please call 408-979-9999 and ask Cate some questions!
What Is That Clicker Thing?
August 13, 2009
The instrument we use to adjust the spine is called an Activator. Activator technique is one of the most researched techniques in chiropractic today and both Dr. Stephanie and Dr. Jennifer are both proficiency rated.
Activator Adjusting Instrument
We use the activator for infants, some children and adults who prefer instrument adjusting over manual adjusting. Many practice members wonder how does that work? Is it the same as a manual adjustment? The answer is yes, it has the same effect as a manual adjustment and it works in a similar way. There are hundreds of techniques in chiropractic and it is all about finding the one that works best for YOUR body. Since we are all different, it is important for us as chiropractors to be well versed in many techniques so we are able to help many different people.
If you have a specific technique that you are looking for, please call Cate, our practice member coordinator at 408-979-9999 and she will help you find out if we practice the technique you are looking for!
