Our second annual Women, Wine, and Wellness event is free, open to the public, and will include food, drinks, social hour, shopping, and speakers! Seating is limited, so RSVP today by calling (949) 250-0600!
May 11th
5:30pm – Social hour, shopping, and food
6:30pm – Speakers
Jen Franco, CN, ACN on Balancing Hormones
Dr. Claire O’Neill on Avoiding Breast Cancer
Dr. Bill DeMoss on Chiropractic and Longevity
Dr. Stuart Titus on Cannabinoids and Health
Tech Neck
The basic definition is the name given to neck soreness from endlessly sitting in front of a computer, typing on a laptop or using any handheld technology. The pain is typically in the the cervical spine, which is why it’s called “tech neck,” but it is not limited to the neck. Overuse or improper use of technology can cause pain in the upper or mid-thoracic and lumbar spine as well.
Sitting with our shoulders hunched forward, neck straining at an uncomfortable angle and eyes squinting to read the screen in our hand is, unfortunately, becoming a common position at work or in social situations for people of all ages from 2 to 72, even older. It’s posture that is most often associated with smart phones, and since 92% of all adults own one, it’s safe to say that this habit isn’t going away anytime soon. Our heads are best carried in a neutral position (the center of our ears over our shoulders), and every inch we move our heads forward puts added strain on our neck. Too much time spent with our heads bent forward over some kind of technological device, beings to create Tech Necks.
There is not going to be a one-size fits all cure for Tech Neck. Gwanseob Shin of the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology Ergonomics lab in South Korea says, “It is difficult to recommend a proper posture for smartphone users. If we raise the phone at eye level to avoid the look-down posture, it will add new concerns for the shoulder due to the elevated arm posture.” He claims that more frequent rest breaks from technology and some physical exercise to strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles is probably more practical. While being more practical, is it really reasonable?
Here are a few tips for avoiding Tech Neck:
– Be aware – consciously consider the position of your arms, shoulders and especially your neck when using technology
– Set Time Limits – take a 3 minute break for every 15-20 minutes you use your device
– Set automatic reminders – most smart devices have timers, take a time-out regularly
– Take Action – pain is our body’s warning system that something isn’t right; don’t ignore it.
DeMoss Chiropractic is the healthcare professional trained to care for the spine. If you or your children are suffering from any of the common symptoms of Tech Neck, be sure to schedule an appointment today.
Sitting is the New Smoking: A Standing Desk Review
Dr. Bill often informs his patients that sitting is the new smoking.
Studies show that our constant habit of sitting during long hours at works aren’t the way our bodies are made to function. Our ancient ancestors were always on the move! There are apps available to remind constant sitters to take a five minute walking break, but there is a blossoming trend which is a fantastic alternative to prolonged sitting – standing desks.
Standing desks aren’t new, many notable minds have used standing desks for centuries – including Leonardo Da Vinci, Benjamin Franklin, Winston Churchill, and Ernst Hemingway.
Standing desks are correlated with raised productivity, weight loss, the ease of back pain, and increased energy. Though standing desks can be more costly than a standard desk, buying one for an office space or home can be a great investment in your health.
Flexispot was kind enough to send us a standing desk to review for this blog post. What makes Felxispot unique is how their model can be placed atop a standard desk and adjusted based on the user’s height. Not to mention, the user has the option to shift the desk to a low setting, allowing a chair to be used as needed.
After two weeks, I’ve found the Flexispot to be a great addition to my office space. The size of the desk allows me to comfortably use my desktop screen and laptop simultaneously while having my planner sprawled for easy reference.
If I ever feel the need to sit, which is surprisingly less than I expected, I can simply adjust the desk to its lowest setting with ease. The hydraulics make the downward movement slow and quiet. As the only office staffer without a standing desk until now, I can see what I’ve been missing and encourage others to consider a standing desk for themselves and their employees.
Heatwave 2017: About & How to Prepare
The National Weather Service is predicting some abnormal temperatures this summer. It’s important to know about the upcoming heatwaves and how to prepare yourself and your family. First, the details. There will be a large contrast between Inland temperatures and the coast. If you’re near or on the coast, summer temperatures will rise a few degrees some days. However, the more inland you are, the higher temperatures will get – upwards of 12 degrees.
What can you do to stay safe? Drink lots of water. Tone down on alcohol consumption on hotter days since it promotes dehydration. Limit exercise during peak heat hours – opting for early or late hours of the day. Make sure your vehicle is in good shape to precent breakdowns and pack water in your car just in case. Check the weather app on your phone before leaving for the day.
To learn more about staying safe in the sun throughout the year, be sure to RSVP for Dr. Joe’s Sun Smart workshop July 26th at 5:30pm. All Cherry will be a guest speaker and dinner will be provided. RSVP today by calling (949) 250-0600 or reserving your spot here.
Watermelon Health Facts and Refreshing Recipe!
It’s Watermelon season which means watermelons currently sold in your neighborhood market are juicier and less expensive than ever. You may not know that watermelon has many health benefits! You Can Eat the Rind: The rind contains health-promoting and blood-building chlorophyll and even contains more citrulline (amino acid) than the pink flesh! Throw it in the blender with your morning smoothie for some easy health benefits! It Lives Up to Its Name: Watermelon is more than 91 percent water. This means that eating watermelon with you on a hot summer day is a tasty way to help you stay hydrated and avoid dehydration when supplemented with plenty of water. Try this recipe for a yummy summer Watermelon drink!
Ingredients:
- 8-10 strawberries
- 1 cup watermelon, cut and cubed
- 1/4 peeled cucumber
Instructions:
- Cut your watermelon into large cubes and remove the rind.
- Peel and cut your cucumber into large pieces.
- Put all ingredients in your blender
- Pour contents into a glass and refrigerate for 1 hour (it definitely tastes best when cold!)
- Enjoy