Back Clinic Detoxification Support Team. Practiced worldwide, detoxification is about resting, cleansing, and nourishing the body from the inside out. By removing and eliminating toxins, feeding your body healthy nutrients, detoxifying can help protect you from disease and renew your ability to maintain optimum health through a range of methods, including chiropractic, meditation, and more. In addition, detoxification means cleansing the blood.
This is done by removing impurities from the blood in the liver, where toxins are processed for elimination. The body also eliminates toxins through the kidneys, intestines, lungs, lymphatic system, and skin. However, when these systems are compromised, and the impurities aren’t properly filtered, the body’s health becomes compromised. Therefore, everyone should detox at least once a year.
However, detoxing for nursing mothers, children, and patients with chronic degenerative diseases, cancer or tuberculosis should consult their doctor before starting a detoxing program. Also, consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about detoxing. But in today’s world, there are more toxins in the environment than ever.
Can knowing about the health benefits of hot yoga help individuals decide if it is right for them?
Hot Yoga
The body has a system for ridding itself of what it can’t use or doesn’t need, called toxins. Individuals may have heard that they can sweat out toxins by doing various hot yoga styles. Hot yoga, practiced in a heated room, has become popular. The standard room temperature is around 105 degrees Fahrenheit with 40% humidity. (Mayo Clinic 2020) Because of the temperatures, hot yoga is not for everyone, and those with heart problems or dizziness are recommended to stick with regular classes. However, the detoxification medical benefits may not be there, or there is still insufficient research to confirm.
Body Detoxification
Broken down by the liver, the toxins in the blood or bile are filtered in the kidneys or intestines and removed in urine or stool. (Boyer J. L. 2013) Sweat is not part of the removal equation. The function of sweat is to cool the body down when it becomes overheated. This can happen during strenuous activity, when overdressed, or in summer. Sweat comprises primarily water with trace amounts of urea, lactic acid, and minerals. (Baker L. B. 2019) Except for water, none of the products in sweat are excreted in large enough quantities to alter or improve metabolic function. The sodium excreted in sweat is quickly re-absorbed through the skin’s epithelial sodium channels, which does little to alter the sodium levels in the blood. (Hanukoglu I. et al., 2017)
Environmental Toxins
The body is exposed to all sorts of toxins daily, including pollution and pesticides in the air, preservatives in our foods, and detergents and cosmetics on our skin. (Hunt P. 2011) Sweat-based exercise to remove these toxins is still unfounded.
Sweating In Hot Yoga
Many think that sweating in a hot yoga class will cleanse the alcohol or unhealthy foods. Yoga won’t help sweat these things out, but the practice still provides benefits that help burn some fat from the calories consumed. Exercising helps burn fat regardless of the temperature of the surroundings. (Swift, D. L. et al., 2014) The benefits include:
Increased circulation to deliver more oxygenated blood to the muscles.
Improved muscle tone and flexibility.
Stress relief.
Instead of sweating out the toxins, minimize exposure by eating a healthy, balanced diet, using natural products, and reading the labels of products placed on or in the body.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness program that fully benefits the individual to get back to normal. Using an integrated approach to treat injuries and chronic pain syndromes, the ability to relieve pain is improved through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs. Our providers create personalized care plans for each patient, including Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine. If other treatment is needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Boyer J. L. (2013). Bile formation and secretion. Comprehensive Physiology, 3(3), 1035–1078. doi.org/10.1002/cphy.c120027
Baker L. B. (2019). Physiology of sweat gland function: The roles of sweating and sweat composition in human health. Temperature (Austin, Tex.), 6(3), 211–259. doi.org/10.1080/23328940.2019.1632145
Hanukoglu, I., Boggula, V. R., Vaknine, H., Sharma, S., Kleyman, T., & Hanukoglu, A. (2017). Expression of epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) and CFTR in the human epidermis and epidermal appendages. Histochemistry and cell biology, 147(6), 733–748. doi.org/10.1007/s00418-016-1535-3
Hunt P. (2011). Toxins all around us. Exposure to the chemicals in everyday objects poses a hidden health threat. Scientific American, 305(4), 14.
Swift, D. L., Johannsen, N. M., Lavie, C. J., Earnest, C. P., & Church, T. S. (2014). The role of exercise and physical activity in weight loss and maintenance. Progress in cardiovascular diseases, 56(4), 441–447. doi.org/10.1016/j.pcad.2013.09.012
For individuals suffering from allergies, could using acupuncture help relieve and manage symptoms?
Acupuncture Can Help With Allergies
Acupuncture is becoming a more respected alternative treatment for various medical issues, from anxiety to fibromyalgia to weight loss. There is evidence that acupuncture can help with allergies by alleviating symptoms and improving the quality of life. (Shaoyan Feng, et al., 2015) The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation recommends doctors offer acupuncture to patients looking for nonpharmacological treatments for their allergies or refer them to an acupuncturist. (Michael D. Seidman, et al., 2015)
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine/TCM practice in which extremely thin needles are inserted into the body at specific points, creating a network of energy pathways known as meridians.
These pathways circulate vital life energy/chi or qi.
Each meridian is associated with a different body system.
Needles are placed to target the organs associated with the condition being treated.
Acupuncture can help with allergies by targeting several meridians, including the lungs, colon, stomach, and spleen. These meridians are believed to circulate defensive life energy or a type of immunity energy.
A backup of defensive energy or a deficiency can cause allergy symptoms like swelling, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, allergic eczema, and conjunctivitis. (Bettina Hauswald, Yury M. Yarin. 2014)
The objective is to stimulate the points to restore balance in the energies and relieve symptoms.
Scientific Theories
One theory is the needles work directly on nerve fibers, influencing messages to the brain or the autonomic nervous system and transmission of signals within the body, including the immune system. (Tony Y. Chon, Mark C. Lee. 2013)
Another is the needles influence certain activities of cells, particularly the transport, breakdown, and clearance of bioactive mediators.
The combination of these actions is thought to decrease inflammatory conditions like allergic rhinitis – hay fever, in which the inside of the nose becomes inflamed and swollen after breathing in an allergen. (Bettina Hauswald, Yury M. Yarin. 2014)
A 2015 review concluded there have been high-quality randomized controlled trials demonstrating acupuncture’s efficacy in treating seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. Smaller studies have shown some preliminary benefits of acupuncture when compared with antihistamines, but more research is needed. (Malcolm B. Taw, et al., 2015)
Treating Allergies
Some individuals who choose acupuncture are seeking alternatives to standard treatment like medications, nasal sprays, and immunotherapy.
Others are looking for ways to enhance the effectiveness of medications already being taken, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, or shorten how long or how frequently they are needed.
Initial treatment usually involves weekly or twice-weekly appointments over several weeks or months, depending on symptom severity.
Improperly administered acupuncture needles can cause serious side effects that range from infections, punctured organs, collapsed lungs, and injury to the central nervous system. (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. 2022) Before trying acupuncture, consult your primary healthcare provider, allergist, or integrative medicine specialist to make sure it’s a safe and viable option and the best way to integrate it into overall allergy care.
Fighting Inflammation Naturally
References
Feng, S., Han, M., Fan, Y., Yang, G., Liao, Z., Liao, W., & Li, H. (2015). Acupuncture for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American journal of rhinology & allergy, 29(1), 57–62. doi.org/10.2500/ajra.2015.29.4116
Seidman, M. D., Gurgel, R. K., Lin, S. Y., Schwartz, S. R., Baroody, F. M., Bonner, J. R., Dawson, D. E., Dykewicz, M. S., Hackell, J. M., Han, J. K., Ishman, S. L., Krouse, H. J., Malekzadeh, S., Mims, J. W., Omole, F. S., Reddy, W. D., Wallace, D. V., Walsh, S. A., Warren, B. E., Wilson, M. N., … Guideline Otolaryngology Development Group. AAO-HNSF (2015). Clinical practice guideline: Allergic rhinitis. Otolaryngology–head and neck surgery : official journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 152(1 Suppl), S1–S43. doi.org/10.1177/0194599814561600
Hauswald, B., & Yarin, Y. M. (2014). Acupuncture in allergic rhinitis: A Mini-Review. Allergo journal international, 23(4), 115–119. doi.org/10.1007/s40629-014-0015-3
Taw, M. B., Reddy, W. D., Omole, F. S., & Seidman, M. D. (2015). Acupuncture and allergic rhinitis. Current opinion in otolaryngology & head and neck surgery, 23(3), 216–220. doi.org/10.1097/MOO.0000000000000161
For individuals with aches and pains throughout their body, can a foot detox help bring relief?
Foot Detox
A foot detox involves soaking the feet in an ionic bath to help remove toxins from the body. They can also be performed using acupressure, scrubs, foot masks, and pads. Combined with eliminating toxins, detox is also believed to help enhance blood circulation and provide body pain and discomfort relief. However, current evidence is limited and there has been no evidence to support that toxins can be released from the feet using an ionic bath. However, they have been found to provide other benefits, which include:
Relaxation
Lower stress levels
Enhanced skin health and hydration.
Reduced inflammation in individuals with skin disorders.
Foot detoxes are considered generally safe, but individuals are recommended to speak to their healthcare provider.
Potential Benefits
The potential health benefits include:
Reduces inflammation and swelling.
Improves stress levels and mood.
Can help with weight management.
Can help with heart health and increased blood circulation.
However, most reports surrounding the benefits of foot detox are not proven by research investigating whether the health claims are scientifically accurate. One study in 2012 found that foot detoxes did not produce the intended results and could not help remove toxins from the body. (Deborah A. Kennedy, et al., 2012) Other research surrounding foot baths and massages showed that they could help reduce symptoms of mood disorders like schizophrenia because of the relaxing effect they produce. (Kazuko Kito, Keiko Suzuki. 2016)
Ways Toxins are Removed From the Body
Toxins are filtered out of the body in a variety of ways. Breathing out expels carbon dioxide from the body. Another way is through the body’s natural processes. The body has organs and other systems to filter out and release toxins.
Specific organs, such as the liver, kidneys, and lymph nodes, filter and remove harmful and unneeded substances. (UW Integrative Health. 2021)
The health claims surrounding toxin removal through the feet are currently insubstantial because no evidence supports the effectiveness and the anecdotal evidence is not based on science.
Foot detoxes can be an enjoyable experience that can help relieve sore feet, relax the body, and offer relief for certain foot ailments. They could be an excellent addition to a self-care routine. Some of the most commonly used natural foot detoxes include the following.
Epsom Salt Foot Bath
Combining Epsom salts with warm water and soaking the feet for 20–30 minutes can help promote relaxation.
Apple cider vinegar foot baths are made by diluting 1 cup of vinegar in warm water and soaking the feet for 20–30 minutes.
There is limited research available to confirm the health claims.
The studies that have been done have found the reverse effect, that bathing the feet in apple cider vinegar and water can irritate the skin. (Lydia A Luu, et al., 2021)
Baking Soda and Sea Salt
Sea salt combined with baking soda dissolved in a bath and soak the feet for up to 30 minutes. While research is limited, some evidence supports the health benefits associated with sea salt that include: (Ehrhardt Proksch, et al., 2005)
Reduces inflammation in skin conditions, like atopic dermatitis.
Foot baths should be avoided for the following:
There are open sores on the feet that could be irritated by salt and other foot bath ingredients.
Individuals with a pacemaker or any electrical body implant.
Pregnant women.
Consult a healthcare provider before trying any new health protocols.
Foot Orthotics Benefits
References
Kennedy, D. A., Cooley, K., Einarson, T. R., & Seely, D. (2012). Objective assessment of an ionic footbath (IonCleanse): testing its ability to remove potentially toxic elements from the body. Journal of environmental and public health, 2012, 258968. doi.org/10.1155/2012/258968
Kito, K., & Suzuki, K. (2016). Research on the Effect of the Foot Bath and Foot Massage on Residual Schizophrenia Patients. Archives of psychiatric nursing, 30(3), 375–381. doi.org/10.1016/j.apnu.2016.01.002
UW Integrative Health. Improving your health by removing toxins from your body.
Akyuz Ozdemir, F., & Can, G. (2021). The effect of warm salt water foot bath on the management of chemotherapy-induced fatigue. European journal of oncology nursing: the official journal of European Oncology Nursing Society, 52, 101954. doi.org/10.1016/j.ejon.2021.101954
Vakilinia, S. R., Vaghasloo, M. A., Aliasl, F., Mohammadbeigi, A., Bitarafan, B., Etripoor, G., & Asghari, M. (2020). Evaluation of the efficacy of warm salt water foot-bath on patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A randomized clinical trial. Complementary therapies in medicine, 49, 102325. doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102325
Luu, L. A., Flowers, R. H., Gao, Y., Wu, M., Gasperino, S., Kellams, A. L., Preston, D. C., Zlotoff, B. J., Wisniewski, J. A., & Zeichner, S. L. (2021). Apple cider vinegar soaks do not alter the skin bacterial microbiome in atopic dermatitis. PloS one, 16(6), e0252272. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0252272
Proksch, E., Nissen, H. P., Bremgartner, M., & Urquhart, C. (2005). Bathing in a magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt solution improves skin barrier function, enhances skin hydration, and reduces inflammation in atopic dry skin. International journal of dermatology, 44(2), 151–157. doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-4632.2005.02079.x
Kanwar A. J. (2018). Skin barrier function. The Indian Journal of Medical Research, 147(1), 117–118. doi.org/10.4103/0971-5916.232013
Individuals dealing with health problems, UTIs, and skin issues can become chronic, what are the effects and benefits of drinking cranberry juice?
Cranberry Juice
Cranberries are a healthy source of nutrients and antioxidants. Cranberry juice is a recommended source of vitamin C, with the added benefits of promoting digestive, heart, immune, and skin health. Most individuals can safely drink cranberry juice to their diet with no issues, but women who are pregnant or individuals that take blood thinners, or medications should discuss adding cranberry intake with a doctor or specialist first.
One cup of unsweetened cranberry juice provides 23.5 milligrams or 26% of the daily value for vitamin C. (USDA 2018)
To avoid excess consumption of added sugars and maximize the benefits, it is recommended to drink unsweetened cranberry juice.
Digestive Health
Cranberries contain antioxidant compounds/polyphenolsthat have been shown to help with digestive health.
A study found that drinking cranberry juice was associated with increased beneficial gut bacteria and decreased constipation.
Research funded by a cranberry juice company found participants who consumed cranberry juice twice daily had lower levels of several risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes than those who received a placebo. (USDA 2016)
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that cranberry supplementation may improve body weight and blood pressure levels.
Cranberries may also help improve high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol—considered “good” cholesterol—in younger adults.
Cranberry juice contains vitamin C, which is important for immune system function.
Research suggests that inadequate vitamin C consumption can lead to decreased immunity and an increased risk of infections. (Carr A, Maggini S, 2017)
Skin Health
Thanks to its high antioxidant content, cranberry juice may help protect your skin against damage caused by free radicals that contributes to premature aging.
The vitamin C in cranberry juice is also needed for collagen production.
Collagen is a type of protein that provides strength, elasticity, and structural support to the skin, helping to keep it firm and smooth.(Pullar JM, et al., 2017)
Infection Prevention
A study found that cranberry components known as proanthocyanidins, can promote oral health.
Cranberries activate antibacterial processes that can prevent bacteria from binding together, reducing periodontitis/gum disease and the formation of dental plaque. (Chen H, et al., 2022)
Urinary Tract Infection Prevention
Cranberries have gone through many studies for home treatment of UTIs.
It is believed the chemical compounds/proanthocyanidins can help prevent certain bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract, thus reducing the risk of UTIs. (Das S. 2020)
A study found cranberry products in the form of juice or tablets may lower the risk of UTIs in at-risk groups by approximately 30%.
At-risk groups include those with recurrent UTIs, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with chronic indwelling catheters (devices used for short-term bladder drainage) and neurogenic bladder (conditions in which people lack bladder control due to problems in the brain, spine, or spinal cord). (Xia J Yue, et al., 2021)
Daily Amount
There is no official recommendation on the optimal amount of juice an individual should consume for health benefits. Most studies examining the benefits have used amounts ranging from 8 to 16 ounces, or around 1 to 2 cups per day. (The Cranberry Institute) However, cranberry juice with large amounts of added sugar can contribute to increased calories, leading to weight gain and other health concerns. Therefore, it is important to read the product label and look for pure, 100% cranberry juice.
If the pure juice is too tart, dilute it with some ice or water.
Avoid cranberry cocktails that are often mixed with other juices, like grape or apple juice, and contain added sugars that can decrease the benefits.
Chicas MC, Talcott S, Talcott S, Sirven M. Effect of cranberry juice supplementation on the gut microbiome and inflammatory markers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in overweight individuals. Curr Dev Nutr. 2022;6(Suppl 1):272. doi:10.1093/cdn/nzac053.013
Chen H, Wang W, Yu S, Wang H, Tian Z, Zhu S. Procyanidins and their therapeutic potential against oral diseases. Molecules. 2022;27(9):2932. doi:10.3390/molecules27092932
Pourmasoumi M, Hadi A, Najafgholizadeh A, Joukar F, Mansour-Ghanaei F. The effects of cranberry on cardiovascular metabolic risk factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Nutrition. 2020;39(3):774-788. doi:10.1016/j.clnu.2019.04.003
Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The roles of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. doi:10.3390/nu9080866
Xia J Yue, Yang C, Xu D Feng, Xia H, Yang L Gang, Sun G ju. Consumption of cranberry as adjuvant therapy for urinary tract infections in susceptible populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis. PLoS One. 2021;16(9):e0256992. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0256992
Although salt is satisfying to the palate and necessary for survival, when the body craves salt, it can be a symptom of a health condition/s. The body needs sodium, but many foods contain more than the body needs. Most individuals’ sodium intake comes from packaged foods, pizza, burgers, and soups. The body craves salty foods for various reasons, often related to a sodium imbalance. To help curb cravings and limit consumption, incorporate seasoning blends, spices, and vegetables into a nutritional plan. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can provide expert diet recommendations and health coaching to develop a personalized nutrition plan.
The body needs 500 milligrams (mg) of sodium daily for optimal functioning.
That’s less than one-fourth of a teaspoon (tsp).
But because most individuals take in around 3,400 mg every day, the American Heart Association recommends that adults reduce consumption to 1,500-2,300 mg of salt daily.
Individuals who crave salt often shouldn’t ignore this as cravings could signal a health condition.
It is recommended to seek a healthcare provider’s advice to evaluate nutrition and lifestyle.
Causes
Dehydration
Craving salt could mean the body needs hydration. A sodium deficiency triggers systems that generate cravings for sodium, and the body feels rewarded after consuming salty foods. Individuals that find themselves dehydrated often should consider following these tips to maintain healthy body hydration:
Carry a water bottle throughout the day, take frequent sips, and try to refill two or more times.
Add fruit or fresh herbs to the water for flavor.
Freeze water bottles to have ice-cold water readily available.
Ask for water alongside other beverages when dining out.
Electrolyte Imbalance
When electrolytes are out of balance, the body can crave salty foods.
Electrolytes are minerals in the body with an electric charge.
Electrolytes are in the blood, urine, and tissues, and levels can spike or plummet.
This occurs when the amount of water taken does not equal the amount lost because of excessive sweating, sickness, and/or frequent urination.
Electrolytes are important because:
They help balance the body’s water equilibrium and pH levels
Move nutrients and waste into and out of the cells
Ensure the nerves, muscles, and brain are at optimal function.
Stress
Eating behavior can quickly be disrupted when experiencing stressful situations.
A stressed body can feel better after eating the foods it is used to, especially for individuals that consume a lot of salty foods when things are normal, and there is no stress.
Boredom
Eating because of boredom is an emotional eating behavior similar to stress eating.
This response to negative emotions can happen to anyone.
Individuals are recommended to work through their negative thoughts with stress reduction strategies that include:
Mindful eating.
Exercise.
Meditation.
Spending time in green spaces like a garden, park, etc.
Individuals can make a no-salt seasoning mix using cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Garlic
Instead of one teaspoon of iodized salt, one teaspoon of fresh garlic can eliminate up to 2,360 mg of sodium and offers an intense flavor.
Reduce Salt Consumption
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says that reducing the amount of sodium can gradually lower cravings. Taking these steps can help:
Limit consumption of packaged foods, especially those with the word instant in the name. These often contain a significant amount of sodium.
If possible, prepare lunch to take to work or school.
Read nutrition labels to ensure the products contain at least less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium.
Stick to fresh, frozen vegetables with no seasoning added or no-salt canned vegetables.
Split meals when eating out or cut the meal in half and take the rest home to avoid the high amounts of sodium in restaurant food.
Use none or low-sodium salad dressings or place them on the side.
Learning About Food Substitutions
References
Bell, Victoria, et al. “One Health, Fermented Foods, and Gut Microbiota.” Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 7,12 195. 3 Dec. 2018, doi:10.3390/foods7120195
Husebye, Eystein S et al. “Adrenal insufficiency.” Lancet (London, England) vol. 397,10274 (2021): 613-629. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(21)00136-7
Morris, Michael J et al. “Salt craving: the psychobiology of pathogenic sodium intake.” Physiology & behavior vol. 94,5 (2008): 709-21. doi:10.1016/j.physbeh.2008.04.008
Orloff, Natalia C, and Julia M Hormes. “Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research.” Frontiers in psychology vol. 5 1076. 23 Sep. 2014, doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2014.01076
Souza, Luciana Bronzi de et al. “Do Food Intake and Food Cravings Change during the Menstrual Cycle of Young Women?.” “A ingestão de alimentos e os desejos por comida mudam durante o ciclo menstrual das mulheres jovens?.” Revista brasileira de ginecologia e obstetricia : revista da Federacao Brasileira das Sociedades de Ginecologia e Obstetricia vol. 40,11 (2018): 686-692. doi:10.1055/s-0038-1675831
Spring allergies are reactions by an individual’s immune system to flowering buds, blooming trees, pet dander, weeds, etc. When coming into contact with the allergen, the immune system’s reaction can inflame the skin, sinuses, airways, or digestive system. The severity of allergies varies from person to person. The spine and brain communicate with various body parts, including those that affect the immune system and how the body reacts to allergens. Chiropractic adjustments for allergy treatment can help regulate histamine and cortisol levels and offer spring allergy tips for prevention.
Spring Allergy Tips
An allergy occurs when the body’s immune system sees a substance as harmful and overreacts (inflammation). The immune system produces substances known as antibodies. A lack of communication between the spine, brain, and other parts of the body can lead to lower immunity meaning the body has a harder time reacting to stressors.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary, but the most common include:
Itchy, red, and watery eyes
Nasal congestion
Sneezing
Runny nose
Itching nose
Post-nasal drip
Coughing
The recommended way to determine whether or not seasonal allergies are causing symptoms is to visit a primary care physician and undergo allergy testing. A physician may recommend an allergist for further evaluation to identify specific allergies.
Prevention
Reduce exposure to triggers
Try to stay indoors on windy days.
Wind and dry air can make allergy symptoms worse.
Closing windows can help keep pollen from blowing inside.
Remove clothes worn outside and shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
Wear a dust mask when lawn mowing, weed pulling, and doing other chores.
Don’t hang laundry outside; pollen can stick to clothes, sheets, and towels.
Seasonal allergy signs and symptoms can flare up with a high pollen count. Certain steps can help reduce the exposure:
Check local TV, radio, or the internet for pollen forecasts and levels.
If high pollen is forecasted, take allergy medications before symptoms begin.
Close doors and windows when pollen counts are high.
Try to avoid outdoor activity when pollen counts are highest.
Indoor Air Quality
Various products can help remove allergens from the air in the home:
Use air conditioning in the house and car when applicable.
Use high-efficiency filters and follow regular maintenance schedules for heating and air conditioning.
Vacuum all floors regularly with a cleaner that has a HEPA filter.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic treatment is highly effective in relieving allergy symptoms and even stopping allergies at their source. The treatments restore balance, so the body is ready to combat allergies. When the spine is out of alignment (which can occur from the coughing and sneezing), it impacts the nervous system, leading to various problems, including allergies and immune system malfunction. A chiropractor can relieve the stress on the nervous system by realigning the spine, taking the pressure off nerves, and allowing the immune system to function at optimal levels. And it makes it easier for the body to fight off infections while recognizing allergens as harmless.
Food Allergies, Hypersensitivity, and Intolerances
References
Balon, Jeffrey W, and Silvano A Mior. “Chiropractic care in asthma and allergy.” Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology: official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology vol. 93,2 Suppl 1 (2004): S55-60. doi:10.1016/s1081-1206(10)61487-1
Bruton, Anne, et al. “Physiotherapy breathing retraining for asthma: a randomized controlled trial.” The Lancet. Respiratory medicine vol. 6,1 (2018): 19-28. doi:10.1016/S2213-2600(17)30474-5
Bruurs, Marjolein L J et al. “The effectiveness of physiotherapy in patients with asthma: a systematic review of the literature.” Respiratory medicine vol. 107,4 (2013): 483-94. doi:10.1016/j.rmed.2012.12.017
Jaber, Raja. “Respiratory and allergic diseases: from upper respiratory tract infections to asthma.” Primary care vol. 29,2 (2002): 231-61. doi:10.1016/s0095-4543(01)00008-2
Wu, Shan Shan et al. “Rhinitis: The Osteopathic Modular Approach.” The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association vol. 120,5 (2020): 351-358. doi:10.7556/jaoa.2020.054
Chiropractic care has a powerful therapeutic effect on the body’s systems. This includes the nervous, muscular, skeletal, and lymphatic. The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system. It circulates lymph, a fluid comprised of white blood cells that support the immune system, proteins, and fats. The lymphatic system collects toxins, moves waste, and protects the body from foreign invaders. Together with the immune system, the lymphatic system keeps the body balanced. However, imbalances occur due to misalignments, subluxations, compressed nerves, chronic conditions, and injuries. Chiropractic care, massage, and decompression therapy can help mobilize stuck or misaligned joints, reduce muscular tension, alleviate nerve inflammation and discomfort, and restore optimal function.
Spinal Lymphatic Detox
Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is a network throughout the body. The system drains lymph fluid from the blood vessels into the tissues and empties it back into the bloodstream through the lymph nodes. The main functions of the system include the following:
Regulates fluid levels in the body.
Activates when bacteria or viruses enter.
Manages and removes cancer cells or cell byproducts that could result in disease or disorders.
Absorbs some of the fats from the intestine.
The lymph nodes and other structures like the spleenand thymushouse specialized white blood cells called lymphocytes. These are ready to go and can rapidly multiply and release antibodies when bacteria, viruses, and other stimuli, enter the body.
Fluid Balance
The blood in the vessels is under constant pressure. Nutrients, fluids, and certain cells need to circulate throughout the body to supply the tissues and maintain the system’s defense. The lymphatic system:
Removes all fluids and contents that leak into the tissues.
Eliminates waste products formed in the tissues.
Eliminates bacteria that enter through the skin.
The digestive and respiratory systems are lined with lymphatic tissue because the systems are exposed. The most important sites are the tonsils, the intestinal region, and the appendix. Lymph nodes are the filters. Viruses and cancer cells get trapped and destroyed in the lymph nodes. More lymphocytes are produced when an infection is present, which is why the nodes experience swelling. When the lymphatic system does not drain fluids from the tissues properly, the tissues swell and can cause symptoms of discomfort. If the swelling is only for a short period, it is called edema. If it lasts more than three months, it is called lymphoedema.
Symptoms of Unhealthy Circulation
Unhealthy circulation can include the following symptoms:
Fatigue
Concentration problems
Cold hands or feet
Swelling
Muscle cramps
Numbness
Tingling
Stinging
Throbbing
Development of ulcers on the feet, ankles, and legs.
Chiropractic Care
A chiropractic spinal lymphatic detoxtreatment releases stagnant fluid collected in the joints, muscles, and tissues. A personalized treatment plan will consist of massage therapy to increase circulation, release and relax the muscles and nerves, chiropractic to realign the body, decompression to open the spine, stretching techniques to improve flexibility, and nutritional guidance to support optimal circulation. The benefits include:
Discomfort and pain relief.
Stress and anxiety relief.
Balanced and realigned body.
Relaxed muscles.
Helps with allergy symptoms.
Detoxes bacteria along the spine.
Lymphatic Anatomy
References
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Majewski-Schrage, Tricia, and Kelli Snyder. “The Effectiveness of Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Patients With Orthopedic Injuries.” Journal of sport rehabilitation vol. 25,1 (2016): 91-7. doi:10.1123/jsr.2014-0222
Mihara, Makoto et al. “Combined conservative treatment and lymphatic venous anastomosis for severe lower limb lymphedema with recurrent cellulitis.” Annals of vascular surgery vol. 29,6 (2015): 1318.e11-5. doi:10.1016/j.avsg.2015.01.037
Mortimer, Peter S, and Stanley G Rockson. “New developments in clinical aspects of lymphatic disease.” The Journal of clinical investigation vol. 124,3 (2014): 915-21. doi:10.1172/JCI71608
Weerapong, Pornratshanee et al. “The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery and injury prevention.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 35,3 (2005): 235-56. doi:10.2165/00007256-200535030-00004
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