If you have not been following a long I have been discussing the beginning stages of what some may consider as an epidemic; “postural syndrome.” So far we have addressed two very important groups of muscles that are necessary for proper postural alignment. If you missed these posts simply click on the links to catch…
In last week’s post I discussed the beginning stages of a “postural syndrome” that occurs due to many of our sedentary lifestyles. I addressed the upper trapezius, and levator scapulae muscles which become increasingly tight in many of us pulling our shoulders forward creating that “slumped” postural appearance and forward head carriage (see below.) It is…
It’s no secret that many people experience back and neck pain. Though many are looking for an exact cause of their pain or discomfort, it’s often a culmination of events that have allowed dysfunction to build over time in their muscle’s and joints. If you have followed my past post’s you already know that I believe many of…
One of the more common issues I have seen lately is postural neck pain. This usually results from too much sitting or desk work coupled with already sub par posture. This can lead to tension headaches, tendonitis, impingement and muscle imbalances. Treating this condition requires a custom approach. Initially spinal manipulation along with passive stretching…
How many of you have heard the phrase “chest breathing”? Though many athletes don’t pay much attention to how they breathe, it is an integral part to both performance and over-all health. A quick drill to test this is to lie on your back knees up, one hand on your chest and one hand on your…
Much like your shoulder mobility (see here), your hips are also negatively effected by the effects of sitting at that dreaded desk job 40+ hours a week. When discussing your “hip mobility” I am referring to the ability of the pelvis to adapt in different daily movements, such as walking, running, bending down or squatting.…
Anyone who is a regular gym-goer may have heard the term “thoracic mobility” before. It has become a particularly popular topic in Cross-Fit circles and sports where a maximal shoulder end range of motion is desired (the lock out). This is necessary for exercises such as pull-ups, hand stand push-ups, ring work, and over head press’…
“Should I be taking a multivitamin?” This is a question that I am sure a few of us have asked ourselves before. My answer is Yes. Why? Many of the nutrients in the foods that we do regularly consume, even if they are considered healthier choices, has been stripped away due to over-processing. Unless you…
Dealing with acute or chronic lower back pain can be a daunting task. If you have followed any of my other posts, you know that I am a firm believer in corrective exercise in addition to traditional chiropractic care. These 3 exercises below are superior (in my opinion) at correcting common imbalances that may be the…
Dr. James Ellis DC, MSACN 