Bottom Line:

The holidays often bring plenty of cheer…and a healthy dose of seasonal stress. Between the travel, parties, and shopping, there are a lot of demands placed on your time, your mind, and your body, and all this commotion can result in muscle spasms and the reoccurrence of familiar aches and pains. For many people, these aches show up in two distinct areas - the low back and the neck and shoulders. Sound familiar? 

Why it Matters:

Nagging low back or neck pain during the holidays can quickly turn into a flare-up that can sideline your holiday plans and pile on the frustration and stress. It’s a vicious cycle, but by making a few smart decisions now, you can position yourself to have a pain-free holiday season. Here are a few key holiday health facts to remember: 

- Stress and fatigue can lead to the re-emergence of familiar aches and pains.

- Research has shown that Chiropractic adjustments can help decrease both pain and muscle tension. 

- Staying on track with your care plan will help ensure that you are moving and feeling great this holiday season. 

Next Steps: 

We understand that the holidays are busy, but don’t let give you an excuse to put off self-care! Health and happiness go hand in hand, and your health is our top priority. By staying well-adjusted this holiday season, you’ll give your body the best opportunity to stay pain-free and yourself the best opportunity to start the new year off right. Be proactive and give us a call to schedule your next adjustment so you can be ready for family and festivities!

Science Source: 

Mechanism of action of spinal manipulative therapy. Joint Bone Spine. 2003

Dr. Ryno Tope is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Structural Chiropractic in Hastings, Hawke’s Bay. Dr. Tope focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 6 years. You can reach Dr. Tope at drryno@structuralchiro.co.nz or 06•651•1004. You can also follow the Structural Chiropractic Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StructuralChiropracticHB).

Everybody experiences stress - job stress, family stress, financial stress, physical stress, holiday stress - and we may not like to admit it, but stress can impact our health.