Seattle Chiropractor & Applied Kinesiologist on Capitol Hill

The Vital Energy Center General Information

2009-01-13T19:14:00.000-08:00

The Vital Energy Center is located at 2033 10th ave E in the North Capitol Hill neighborhood.

We're at the cross section of 10th ave and East Boston. We serve the Capitol Hill, Downtown Seattle,University District, Madison Valley, Montlake, Eastlake, and First Hill neighborhoods. We offer Chiropractic, Applied Kinesiology, 3 Unique styles of massage: SOMA, AMMA, and Traditional Deep Tissue, and Nutrition. We specialize in treatment of Auto Accidents, Work Injuries, Sports Injuries, Neck Pain, Back Pain, Headaches, and many other neuromuscular complaints. Our patients love us because we listen to their needs, teach them how to help themselves, and provide gentle effective care. See our many positive reviews at yelp.com and citysearch.com. Visit our comprehensive webpage at www.thevitalenergycenter.com

Applied Kinesiology and Functional Neurological Assessment

2009-01-13T13:48:00.000-08:00

Many people are amazed at Applied Kinesiological muscle testing. I often hear people call it "voodoo" "magic" or they simply think there is some trick to it. Actually its based on sound neurological science. This post is an attempt to simplify the neurology and provide a basic understanding of how a muscle becomes "conditionally inhibited" or "weak" and to clarify the primary intent of Applied Kinesiology's functional neurological assessment.

The FUNCTIONAL STRENGTH of a muscle is determined by the CENTRAL INTEGRATED STATE of the MOTOR NEURON at each spinal level.

THE CENTRAL INTEGRATED STATE is maintained by the convergence of input coming from the brain and the body. Input from the body in the form nerve signals coming from the muscles, organs, joints, and many other sensory receptors embedded within the body.

If there is a loss of normal sensory activity in the muscles, organs, joints due to subluxation (poor spinal alignment), poor range of motion, injury, pain, or disease, then the effect is a INHIBITED CENTRAL INTEGRATED STATE of the converging pathways to the motor nerve that controls the muscles. Hence, the muscle becomes CONDITIONALLY INHIBITED.

CONDITIONALLY INHIBITED MUSCLES test "weak" during a muscle test. Inhibited muscles destabalize joints, and often create pain, dysfunction, and poor muscular performance overall.

APPLIED KINESIOLOGY diagnostic procedures are used to identify CONDITIONALLY INHIBITED MUSCLES, and also to identify the CAUSE of the inhibition. Treatment is focused on restoring the proper level of neurologic function, balance the input from the brain and body, and restore proper joint function. This is associated clinically with the reduction of pain, improved neuromuscular function, improved joint stability, and proper muscular control of joints.

Unique Massage at The Vital Energy Center

2009-01-08T16:14:00.000-08:00

We offer 3 unique styles of massage.

Traditional Relaxation & Deep Tissue Massages, practiced by Tara Hoch LMT, are fantastic for easing tense muscles and relaxing the mind and body. Tara is an expert at treating muscle and joint injuries, reducing pain and stiffness and facilitating recovery after auto accidents and work injuries.

AMMA Bodywork Therapy, practiced by Leslie Bower LMT is an ancient and extremely specialized form of skilled bodywork that integrates deep tissue manipulation, pressure application, friction, and touch to specific acupoints, energy channels, muscles, ligaments, and joints. AMMA Bodywork Therapists are trained in the principles of Holistic Nutrition, eastern dietary principles, and the use of Chinese herbs.

SOMA Structural Integration and Massage, practiced by Jeff Greiner LMT, is a system of bodywork that pays particular attention to the fascia (or connective tissue network). SOMA releases tension in the fascia and thus provides relief from chronic pain and tension and improves overall structural alignment.

Choose any style for only $47 (1 per client)

Choose the Massage Sampler Package and receive 1-Hr of each style (3 total hrs!) for only

135! (1 per client)

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

Call Heather at 206-860-9090 to schedule your appointment!

Chiropractic Care Focuses on Optimal Health and Function

2009-01-06T10:28:00.000-08:00

Many people understand chiropractic as a method for relieving neck pain, back pain, and headaches. This is true as chiropractic has been shown to be one of the most effective, natural approaches to relieving pain. What is not as well know are the far reaching benefits of a chiropractic adjustment. Here are but a few of the many benefits of regular chiropractic care : 1. restoration of and maintainance of normal joint motion. 2. improve spinal biomechanics 3. optimization of performance and coordination. 4. maintainance of joint stability 5. improves nutrition to discs and other joints. 6. reduces the risk of injury and spinal degeneration. 7. improves agility, balance, coordination, stability and fine motor control.

Everyday activities that cause Neck Pain, Back Pain and Spinal Stress

2008-10-25T20:00:00.000-07:00

Everyday activities that cause postural stress and spinal misalignments:

1. Prolonged sitting
2. Sitting after vigorous activity
3. Lying and resting with poor posture
4. Improper lifting
5. Prolonged standing
6. Working in stooped positions

Postural stress slowly weakens and distorts the structure and function of your spine and nerve system. Postural stress progressively weakens the ligaments and discs that support the spine and can stretch and irritate the spinal cord and spinal nerves that run between the spinal bones. If you make the effort to maintain good posture throughout each day, you can significantly reduce postural stress and improve the health of your entire body!

Prolonged sitting:
Many people sit more than 8-10 hrs per day. We sit at our desks, in the car, on the bus,
at the dinner table, on the couch, etc. And we do this everyday… for years! Let’s do the math:
8 hrs/ day x 365 days year= 2920 hrs of sitting every year! Improper sitting is one of the most common causes of spinal dysfunction. On average, 1/3 of your life is spend sitting, so let’s learn how to do it right.

Rule #1: Do not slouch. Maintain the proper curves (lordosis) in your neck and back.
Keep your chin up and your head back over your shoulders. If the seat
has a backrest, use a rolled towel to support the low back.

Rule #2: Interrupt periods of prolonged sitting with motion. Move the hips forward and
back, right and left 10 times, and/or stand up and walk around.
Do this at least once every hour.

Sitting after vigorous activity:

It is very important to maintain proper spinal curves after activity because the joints of the spine undergo a loosening processes after activity. Spinal joints become misaligned easily if they are put into a slouched position after vigorous activity.
Rule #1: After vigorous activity, you should gradually cool down. Do not stop activity abruptly. Stand up right, walk around, and move your head forward andbackwards (yes), right and left (no) 10 x. Also, bend backward at the hips 10 x.When you sit down to rest, avoid slouching and maintain your spinal curves.

Lying down and resting:
Like sitting, many of us lie down to rest or sleep for 6-8 hours per day. On average, we spend 1/3 of your life in this position. Think about it… 2/3 of your life is spent either sitting or lying down. The impact on the spine is significant because both activities contribute significantly to spinal misalignments and poor posture. If you do it right, you can reduce the accumulated stress from these activities considerably.

Rule #1: Use your pillow to support your neck and head. When lying on your
back make a deep hollow in the center of your pillow to rest the back of your head. When on your side, use the pillow to keep your head and neck straight. Do not rest with head and neck in a kinked position.

Rule #2: Do not sleep on your stomach with your head turned. This places
extreme stress on the upper neck and is the cause of many problems.

Lifting:

Lifting objects with your back greatly increases the stress to your spine and discs. Everytime you lift improperly, you do a little more damage and your one step closer to having a serious spinal problem. When doing heavy lifting for prolonged periods of time, take a rest and bend forwards and backwards 10 times.

Rules for lifting:

1. stand as close to the object to be lifted as possible. Bend your knees
or use a stool if necessary. Do not reach out for objects.
2. maintain proper spinal curves
3. get a secure grip and keep the object as close to you as possible.
4. lift objects slowly off the floor with your legs.
5. once you are upright and holding the object, shift your feet to turn
and avoid twisting the lower body.

Rule summary: Keep the object close to you, do not twist the lower body, and
Maintain proper spinal curves.

Prolonged standing:

Prolonged standing causes fatigue of the postural muscles of the back. When this
happens, the curve in your low back becomes excessive and your stomach hangs out.
This is the opposite position to the slouched position.

Rules #1: Stand as tall as you can by lifting your chest up, pulling in your
stomach and slightly tightening your buttocks

Working in a stooped position:
When you work in a stooped position (ie. vacuuming, gardening, bedmaking, etc) the stress on your lower back is considerably greater then when you stand with the backstraight. This can easily lead to spinal misalignments and back pain.

Rule #1: Interrupt the stooped position at regular intervals. Stand up straight and bend backwards 10x every :30 minutes

2 ways to maintain a youthful spine and nerve system

1. Have your spine and nerve system checked regularly with chiropractic and
applied kinesiology to maintain a strong brain/body connection and

reduce structural misalignments before they become problematic.

2. Follow the rules listed above to enhance the effect of your chiropractic care, help you hold your adjustments longer, and help prevent injuries.

A Healthy Spine & Nerve System

Will Improve Your Life!!

The importance of a chiropractic evaluation following an auto accident

2008-10-25T19:52:00.001-07:00

Many of my current clients have told me that when they went to their doctor following their accident, they received a brief examination, given pain medication and released. Few of them were x-rayed, and even fewer were referred to chiropractors to detect subtle spine and muscle injuries. A February 2001 study in the Journal of Clinical Epidemiology revealed that accident victims, classified as having “minor” injuries experienced a threefold increase of neck and shoulder pain 7 years after their accidents. Another study published in 1997 in the American Journal of Arthritis and Rheumatology found that 21.6% of adults with neck injuries developed Fibromyalgia with 1 year of their injury! Don’t just walk away from the accident and think that you will be fine. Everyone who is involved in an automobile accident has the right to a complete chiropractic evaluation to detect subtle injuries to the spine and muscles that can result in an increased risk of headache, back pain, fatigue, stomach pain, sleep disturbance and general ill health years later. If you or someone you know has been in an auto accident, call our office today at 206-860-9090 to schedule a chiropractic evaluation

Our Primary Intention at The Vital Energy Center

2008-10-25T19:32:00.000-07:00

Our Primary Intention is to help as many people as we can lead happier and healthier lives.

Thats what motivates us and drives us to continually improve the quality of our services.

We know that every person we help creates a positive shift for us, for them, for their family, community, and all humanity.

The goals for The Vital Energy Center are to:

Substantially improve our patients health and well-being far beyond "back-pain problems".
Provide our patients with self-care education to promote a lifetime of health & wellness
Help our patients understand the primary that chiropractic, nutrition, and massage have in the restoration and maintenance of good health.
Give you access to the best natural healers in one convenient location.
To set a new standard for quality care and impeccable service.

The Vital Energy Center's Certified Nutritionist Eliza Carlson MS,CN at the KCTS health fair!

2008-10-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

On Sept. 10, 2008 Eliza and I were invited to attend an employee health fair at KCTS. Eliza, our nutritionist, was performing anti-oxidant screenings with the Pharmanex BioPhotonic Scanner. People were lining up to get their Body Defense Scores and see if their current diets and supplementation program were working. To the surprise of many, their "good diets and daily supplementation" weren't working! They had low scores (<20,000 : optimum is 50,000+) The scanner doesnt lie! its a very accurate measurement of the anti-oxidant benefit that you're getting from your diet. If the diet is deficient in fruit and veggies, it shows. If your supplements are not being absorbed or if the quality of the nutrients are poor, it show. Eliza is a Certified Nutritionist, and was able to offer solid advise and a guaranteed way to improve anti-oxidant levels and Body Defense Scores. If you're interested in knowing your score, give us a call. On your first visit, Eliza will run the scan, and help you determine how to maximize your anti-oxidant protection. The Vital Energy Center was a huge hit at KCTS and we look forward to the next event!

Research on Applied Kinesiology

2008-10-25T19:02:00.001-07:00

Here are several of the many studies across multiple disciplines on manual muscle testing and applied kinesiology.

The first study is a fantastic synopsis of 19 peer reviewed -clinically researched cases and their response to applied kinesiology manual muscle testing and chiropractic treatment.

http://www.chiroandosteo.com/content/pdf/1746-1340-15-4.pdf

10 years worth of Structured Abstracts from the International College of Applied Kinesiology, ICAK Collected Papers: ICAK Applied Kinesiology Collected Papers Structured Abstracts 2006-1996.doc (601 kb)

What is Applied Kinesiology Muscle Testing...

2008-10-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

Basic human anatomy has shown that there is an intimate connection between your muscles and your nerve system. The purpose of the central nerve system, your brain and spinal cord, is to control, regulate, and heal the body. In order to do this, your brain must be able to send an electrical signal, or "vital energy", over the spinal cord, thorough the spinal nerves and out to every muscle, organ and gland. Without the transmission of this vital enery, the body will die. If this energy is cut off from any one part of the body, that individual part will die. Every muscle, organ and gland is also able to send electrical signals over the nerves to notifiy the brain of its current condition and specific needs. Optimum body function is only possible when the electrical energy in your body can travel without interference over the nerves. However, when the body is in a state of dis-ease the brain cannot effectively transmit this signal to the body parts. As a result, the ability of the brain to control, regulate and heal the body is diminished. Diminished nerve signals can be identified by performing a manual muscle test. Muscle testing is performed as a means of tuning in to the function of your body's electrical system or nerve system. When performing a muscle test we are looking for the muscle to respond "strong". A "strong" or facilitated muscle responds by contracting fully in response to the pressure being applied to it. If the muscle being tested is shakey, or gives way, this indicates that there is an inadequate neurologic control, or inhibition, of the muscle. There are many reason for this, but is often the result due to neuroarticular dysfunction, or spinal joint subluxation., After your chiropractor locates the source of the problem, and corrects it with a chiropractic adjustment, the brain is better able to deliver the electrical signal to the muscle, the muscle responds "strong" when tested, and the functional integrity of your nerve system has been improved. This is clinically associated with pain relief, joint stabilization, improved muscular activation, strength, flexibility, and coordination. Chiropractic and Applied Kinesiology Manual Muscle Testing maximize your self-healing and self-regulating abilities by improving the ability of your brain to send its life giving vital energy to every muscle, organ and gland in the body!! GET ADJUSTED TODAY!

How do i know whether to use ice or heat after an injury?

2008-10-13T14:04:00.000-07:00

People often ask me which is better to use to facilitate healing, ice or heat. To determine this, its helpful to understand what ice and heat do to the tissues.

ICE: decreases the flow of circulation, decreases swelling after an acute injury, decreases pain impulses, and INCREASES muscle and ligament tension. Best applied after an acute injury in which a sprain/strain has occurred and where there is swelling. Also, when unusual or strenuous physical activity is followed by muscle or joint pain, its best to apply ice. Never apply ice directly to the skin, wrap the ice pack in a cloth before placing over the injured area. Ice is typically applied for :10 minutes every hour for the first 1-3 days, but its best to consult your doctor for the exact treatment frequency.

HEAT: increases circulation of blood and decreases muscle and ligament tension. Best used to relieve chronic muscle and ligament tension. Moist heat penetrates deeper into the body than dry heat and be sure to dry the area after use to prevent rapid cooling.

Hope that helps!! If you have questions let me know, I'd be happy to help.

The Vital Energy Center is proud to announce the arrival of the Pharmanex BioPhotonic Anti-oxidant scanner`

2008-09-21T18:29:00.000-07:00

Whats your anti-oxidant score?
Find out today! FREE scan.

What does the Pharmanex BioPhotonic Scanner measure?

The S2 Anti-oxidant scanner measures the level of carotenoid antioxidants in the skin. The level of skin carotenoids is a very good indicator of overall serum anti-oxidant levels. Anti-oxidants are substances that help protect your cells against the effects of free radicals. Free radicals are molecules produced stress, the breaking down of food, and by environmental exposures like air pollution, water pollution, tobacco smoke and radiation. Free radicals can damage cells, and may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases. Your Anti-oxidant score is an important indicator of the strength of your body’s overall antioxidant defense system.

Is the Pharmanex BioPhotonic Scanner backed by science?

The use of Raman Spectroscopy for biological measurements is an established scientific discipline backed by years of research. The Pharmanex BioPhotonic Scanner are patented applications of Raman Spectroscopy for the measurement of

carotenoid antioxidant nutrients in living tissue for the improvement of nutrition. The use of Raman Spectroscopy for the assessment of human tissue carotenoids has been validated by at least eight peer-reviewed studies conducted by third party entities unrelated to Pharmanex or the supplementation industry (Bernstein,1998, 2002; Ermakov, 2004a, 2004b; Gellermann, 2004,2002; Hata, 2000; Zhao, 2003).

How can I increase my score?

You can increase your Skin Carotenoid Score by eating a 9-13 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, and adding supplements like Lifepak nano, a very high-quality, comprehensive nutritional supplement that is guaranteed to raise your score. In addition, our nutritionist Eliza Carlson can help you create a personalized program to boost your score and improve your overall nutritional status. Just ask Heather (heather@thevitalenergycenter.com) to schedule your nutritional consultation with Eliza .

To learn more about the scanner click here: http://www.nuskin.com/global/library/pdf/products/pip_s2scanner.pdf

Spinal Decompression at The Vital Energy Center

2008-09-20T23:16:00.000-07:00

At The Vital Energy Center we have 2 easy to use and very popular inversion tables. In this picture, I'm on the DEX decompression table. I like the DEX because it allows me to adjust the spine to remove specific areas of spinal stress and tension while the spine is in full traction. I have found this to be of tremendous benefit for those people whose spines have become compressed from prolonged sitting and poor posture over the years. To learn more about the benefits of traction check out the link on our website www.thevitalenergycenter.com/inversion-table and there you can see our other inversion table the teeter hang-up F9000, also a clinic favorite with its own unique benefits.

Unique Massage at our Capitol Hill Office

2008-09-20T22:09:00.000-07:00

The Vital Energy Center offers 4 unique styles of massage. Traditional relaxation and deep tissue massage is directed at easing tense muscles and relaxing the mind and body. Our Massage therapists are also experts in Injury Treatment massage to help you recover from auto,work, or sports injuries. The Vital Energy Center is also proud to have both AMMA and SOMA bodyworkers at our clinic. Leslie Bower LMT is AMMA bodywork therapy. AMMA is the oldest Chinese word to describe massage, a classical Asian Bodywork style that dates back over 5000 years. Amma Bodywork Therapy is an extremely specialized form of skilled bodywork that integrates deep tissue manipulation, pressure application, friction, and touch to specific acupoints, energy channels, muscles, ligaments, and joints. Amma Bodywork Therapists are trained in the principles of Holistic Nutrition, eastern dietary principles, and the use of Chinese herbs.
SOMA Structural Integration and Massage, practiced by Jeff Greiner LMT, is a system of bodywork that pays particular attention to the fascia (or connective tissue network). SOMA releases tension in the fascia and thus provids relief from chronic pain and tension and improves overall structural alignment. Are you ready to give those sore, aching muscles a break? Want to feel good in your body again? I bet you do! Call our office today at 206-860-9090 and schedule a massage with one of our fantastic massage therapists, and begin to feel better now. realign the entire body.

Chiropractic Exam Special Offer!

2008-09-01T22:37:00.000-07:00

Are you or someone you know experiencing neck pain, back pain, or headaches? Did you know that we excel at helping people with these painful and sometimes debilitating conditions? Here's your chance to get relief today with this amazing offer!

For a limited time, We're offering our introductory exam for only $77!* (reg. $225). Here's
what we'll do: an in-depth chiropractic consultation and evaluation including a computerized spinal exam, postural evaluation, and 70-pt muscle evaluation. When we’re finished, if we can help you we'll tell you right away, and if we can’t, we'll try to help you find someone who can.

Great Care & a Great Value:
You'll be glad to know that further care is very affordable - We bill most major health insurance, auto insurance, and labor & industries. We also offer easy payment options if you have little or no insurance coverage. And you can be sure that we'll treat you with the utmost care and respect in our office.

We're here to help!
Heather, our office manager, is fantastic & she's available to answer your questions and schedule your appointment.

This is your chance to find out what chiropractic is, how it works,
and how we can help you.

But remember, it's a limited time offer and i don’t want you to miss
out, so call Heather now at 206.860.9090 to schedule your appointment.

*By the way, i want you to know there is no pressure, obligation, or hidden fees associated with this offer.
Sincerely, Dr. Jared Kohler

Chiropractic Definition

2008-08-21T12:24:00.001-07:00

theres a lot of misinformation about what Chiropractic actually is, so i thought id post the actual definition accepted by the Association of Chiropractic Colleges:
Chiropractic is concerned with the preservation and restoration of health, and focuses particular attention on the subluxation. A subluxation is a complex of functional and/or structural and/or pathological articular changes that compromise neural integrity and may influence organ system function and general health. A subluxation is evaluated, diagnosed, and managed through the use of Chiropractic procedures based on the best available rational empirical evidence.

Core strengthing exercises at work.

2008-08-20T08:19:00.000-07:00

This exercise is the foundation of core strength and its so simple you can do it just about anywhere. ok, here it goes: One of the most important muscles for core stability is the transverse abdominus. To activate this muscle, you simply exhale as you pull your belly toward your spine, hold for 5-10 seconds, repeat 12-20x. thats it! now there are several variations for this and different points of awareness, but this is the most basic, simple method of beginning to strengthen your core. have fun!

2 simple postures to relieve lower back pain

2008-08-19T15:09:00.000-07:00

there are basically 2 simple postures you can do when experiencing lower back pain or stiffness. The first is simply lying on your back and bringing your knees toward your chest for 3-5 minutes. Do not bounce the legs, but simply hold them toward your chest. your head should be relaxed and breathe easily. The second posture is easily achieved by placing your legs up onto a couch or chair. The hips and knees are at 90degree angles and the head and back are relaxed. maintain this position for 20 or more minutes. If the discomfort persists, call your doctor of chiropractic for an evaluation and adjustment.

2 yoga postures to avoid

2008-08-19T11:16:00.000-07:00

we see alot of yoga practitioners in our clinic and many of them complain of neck pain and stiffness that just does not seem to go away. upon examination, i often find that these people have lost their normal cervical lordosis (or natural curve), there are many causes for this from poor reading posture, to head injuries and rear end auto accidents. once the curve is lost it must be restored to prevent deterioration of the discs, joints, muscles, and nerves. most yoga ananas (postures) will not exacerbate this condition, but there are 2 that put the neck under extreme strain and can even cause a disc herniation. what are the 2 posture to avoid.... shoulder stand and plow. i strongly suggest that you dont do them.

Chiropractic helps speed recovery after whiplashi injuries

2008-08-19T10:51:00.000-07:00

After being in an auto accident many people seek care from their primary care medical doctor. They are often prescribed muscle relaxers, pain relievers, and physical therapy. Even though there is a large body of evidence based research that demonstrates that chiropractic care helps speed recovery and is the treatment of choice for whiplash injuries, many medical doctors never mention it as a treatment option. The research clearly shows that chiropractic care is often more effective than other forms of care. In 1995, the Canadian Provence of Quebec commissioned a Task Force to study all the scientific research regarding the care of whiplash. After a 3 year review of 10,382 articles on neck injuries they determined that chiropractic adjustments were the gold standard treatment of choice. The other common treatments such as muscle relaxants, cervical pillows, acupuncture, ultrasound, diathermy were rejected as not having any scientific basis for their use. Only chiropractic and exercise were found to be significantly helpful in the recovery of whiplash. So, while it may be important to have a medical evaluation after a whiplash injury, its even more important to have a chiropractic evaluation and treatment to ensure the best possible recovery and return to normal.

A Simple Postural Change that can eliminate headaches, neck pain, and tension

2008-08-12T11:08:00.000-07:00

Posture affects all human function, both consciously and unconsciously, from breathing to thinking. Most of us are familiar with the affects of posture on mood. A classic example: If you stand with your back hunched over and your head down, you'll begin to feel lousy. If you stand up tall with your shoulders back and chin up, you'll begin to feel better. Not only does posture affect your mood, but it affects the very function of your body as well.

"Spinal Pain, headache, bloodpressure, pulse, and lung capacity are among the functions most easily influenced by posture. The corollary of these observations is thatmany symptoms, including pain mayb e moderated or eliminated by improved posture." Am. Journal of Pain Management Vol 4. #1 Jan 1994.

One of the most destructive postural problems is FHP (or forward head posture). FHP is when your head is positioned out in front of your shoulders. It develops as a result of holding the chin toward the chest while reading, after rear-end car accidents, sleeping on your back with thick pillows under the head, and due to poor head positioning during computer use.

Why is FHP such a problem? Because it takes the natural curve out of the neck and significantly increases the stress on the spine, muscles, and discs. For every inch that your head is held forward the compressive forces placed on the spine increase 100%. When the spinal discs, and joints are subject to increased stress for a sustained period of time they begin to deform and permanent changes can take place. If left uncorrected, forward head posture can have serious health consequences.

"FHP leads to long term muscle strain, disc herniations, arthritis, and pinched nerves" Mayo Clinic Health Letter. Vol.18, #3, March 2000.

Heres how you can lessen the damaging effects of FHP:

First: Seek chiropractic care! Chiropractic corrective care can significantly reduce the effects of forward head posture on the spine. Gentle adjustments to the spine can help reduce spinal misalignments and stress and help restore the natural curve of your neck and bring your head back over your shoulders. Thereby significantly improve the integrity of the spine and nerve system.

Second: Avoid the "chin-to-chest" posture while reading. Instead, keep your head up, use a bookstand or simply bring reading material up to your eyes instead of your eyes down to the reading material.

Third: When using your computer, set the monitor at eye level so that when looking straight ahead, you gaze at the upper 1/3 or the monitor. Also, use a stand up clipboard or monitor clip for papers that you are working from so as to avoid bending and turning the neck to view papers that are flat on the desk. Many office supply stores have versions of paper stands or copy stands that attach to the computer monitor.

Forth: Use a headset when talking on the phone to avoid a sideways kink of the neck which occurs when you sandwich the phone between your ear and shoulder

Fifth: When sitting for long periods of time, take a moment ever :30 minutes and notice your posture. Then sit up straight, elevate your chest, and bring your head back over your shoulders. Every hour get up from the chair and stand with your back against the wall. Turn your palms forward and lightly squeeze your shoulder blades together. Press the back of your head gently into the wall, hold for 5 seconds and relax. walk away from the wall, but keep that chest elevated and head back over the shoulders. It's gonna feel strange at first, but your body will get used to it.

Maintaining good posture is a lifelong commitment. And its worth it! By making a few small changes in your posture and having great chiropractic care you're more likely to avoid the damage and degeneration that comes with spinal and postural neglect and instead have a healthy spine for a lifetime!