5 Simple Tips for Relieving Neck Pain During Pregnancy

A 2016 survey in the US found that 3% of Americans have either a weakened, suppressed, or compromised immune system. Some researchers even believe that the numbers are rising, thanks in large part to medical advances that allow immuno-compromised individuals to live longer.

That percentage may not sound like a lot—but when you consider that you or your loved ones could fall into that category, the stakes become higher.

Are you considering ways to support and strengthen your immune system? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

Here, we list a handful of activities that help boost your immunity. Keep reading!

1. Physical Activity

You might be wondering, Does physical activity boost the immune system? It does, and in fact, it may be one of the most natural ways to boost your immunity!

In short, regular exercise can:

• Improve your mental health (not exactly immunity-related, but a great bonus)
• Lower your risk of illness
• Increase the circulation of immune cells
• Improve your immune response
• Reduce harmful inflammation

Experts recommend an aerobic activity that lasts less than an hour, done regularly throughout the week (without overdoing it). This includes everything from walking to running, attending a spin class, or using the elliptical.

2. Quitting Bad Habits

This may not seem like an “activity,” but you can make it one! Record your highs and lows, progress and setbacks in a journal or with friends to make it more fun—and to hold yourself accountable.

Some habits to consider kicking include:

• Smoking cigarettes
• Excessive use of alcohol
• Lack of sleep (more on that later)
• A poor diet

3. Getting Adequate Sleep

Resting is an activity—and let’s admit, it’s a fulfilling one!

Not getting adequate sleep is detrimental to your immune system. On the flip side, getting good sleep fosters it.

When you sleep, your body creates cytokines, which are proteins that target infection and inflammation. The fewer sleep you get, the fewer cytokines your body produces. Not only does rest produce these proteins, but it releases them, too.

Sound sleep: it’s a win-win!

4. Visiting the Sauna

The health benefits of sauna-going are enticing!

The heat from saunas can reduce inflammation, improve your immune response, and reduce harmful physical stress, which takes its own toll on the body’s immune response.

If you’re looking for ways to improve your immune function, use your local sauna for about 15 to 20 minutes tops (to avoid dehydration).

5. Checking in With Your Chiropractor

The best chiropractor will support you in your entirety—beyond the mechanics of your spine. In addition to this, chiropractors emphasize your body healing itself without the use of prescription drugs and/or surgery.

The relationship between your body’s structure and its function is undeniable, and it’s something that’s significantly studied in the chiropractic world. The bond between these two things promotes the preservation and restoration of health, as well as the body’s natural recuperative power.

So, it might be time to visit your local chiropractor and see what they have to say about your nervous system, general physical health, and stress and anxiety levels.

Don’t Wait to Boost Your Immune System

If you’ve noticed one thing about these activities, it’s probably that they’re actionable on a daily basis. Additionally, they’re relatively simple to incorporate into your day-to-day.

Your immune system greatly depends on your efforts—your good habits, your sleeping patterns, your exercise levels, and more. If you can practice these activities regularly, you’ll be glad you did.

At Amazing Life Chiropractic & Wellness, we strive to make you feel better, and we’re not just talking about your spinal health! We take a well-rounded approach that observes everything from your physical activity to your body’s general well-being.

If you’re a new patient, click here to request an appointment with our talented team. We look forward to hearing from you.

Landscaping duties and services in the US cover a wide range, including lawn care, residential and commercial irrigation, landscape construction and design, and much more.

The industry is massive, earning over $99 billion in the year 2019 alone. That’s not surprising when you understand that the average American household spends about $503 on these activities per year. The landscaping industry is only growing, too. 

This is all good news for you as a landscaping employee, but the job comes with some cautions. For example, many landscapers experience injuries, strain, and overexertion at some point in their careers. 

Are you noticing signs of injury, such as joint pain? Or, are you looking for preventative tactics that allow you to stay safe while on the job?

Here, we highlight some of the most common issues and how to prevent or treat them. Keep reading!

Problem #1: Overexertion From Heavy Lifting

When you’re a landscaper, you’re dealing with a lot of equipment: lawnmowers, leaf vacuums, edgers, trenchers, and much more. Your landscaping duties also likely require you to lift and maneuver these things often, especially during transportation to and from a job site.

Lifting heavy objects repetitively or incorrectly can strain the back muscles and ligaments, causing mild to severe back pain and discomfort. Continuous strain on an already-weaker spine can even cause muscle spasms. In worst cases, you may experience bulging or ruptured discs, which eliminate the necessary cushioning in the spine.

Solution: Know the Proper Lifting Techniques

One of the best ways to prevent these back injuries is to lift objects correctly.

At all times, lift objects with the strength of your legs, not the back, bending at the knees. Keep your back lengthened and as straight as possible, taking care to not twist as you lift. 

Keep the object close to you, avoid reaching, and always lift with a partner whenever possible.

Problem #2: Joint Pain From Bending and Kneeling

Knee pain is another common complaint of landscapers, as they’re almost constantly bending and kneeling as they work. These actions can also have adverse effects on the back.

There could be several reasons this motion causes you pain—not warming up; wearing bad shoes; squatting continuously throughout the day. The list goes on, and depends on the person.

Solution: Proper Protective Equipment

One way to help manage pain in the joints from bending and kneeling is by investing in protective equipment, such as knee braces and/or back braces, as well as knee cushions for kneeling. 

Garden kneelers are an option, and provide a cushioned bench for gardeners to use when they must get close to the ground.

Another consideration would be custom orthotics, which can help solve a slew of problems, including knee and back pain, sciatica, leg length discrepancies, and more.

Make sure to talk to your doctor or chiropractor first if you have any questions!

Part of Your Landscaping Duties Require Physical Fitness

There’s no going around it: you can’t perform as well on the job if you’re dealing with pain, strain, or injuries.

If you become unable to work due to bad practices while on the job, you’ll soon be caught in a predicament. Your best bet is staying safe by practicing proper lifting techniques and wearing or using protective equipment designed to keep you well. These practices are all part of your landscaping duties.

For more preventative care, or treatment for current pain, we at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness would love to help.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our talented staff and see if we can help you work smarter—not harder!