Governor Snyder Declares October 2014 Spinal Healthcare Month in Michigan

At the request of the Michigan Association of Chiropractors (MAC), Governor Rick Snyder has signed an Executive Declaration naming October 2014 “Spinal Healthcare Month” in Michigan. In his Declaration, the Governor proclaimed that the “proper function of the nervous system and the correct alignment of the spine are paramount to the body’s ability to grow and develop appropriately, and to work effectively and efficiently.” The Governor further proclaimed that, “The science of chiropractic care and the doctors who practice it have contributed greatly to the health and well-being of our citizenry.”

In honor of Governor Snyder’s proclamation, Dr. Hines & Dr. Gregory of Maple Lake Chiropractic in Paw Paw are working to educate the community about proper spinal health care. “Back pain is the second most common reason for visits to a doctor’s office in the United States,” said Dr. Hines. “It is estimated that 80 percent of us will suffer from back pain at some point in our lives. Even everyday activities, if not done properly, can lead to back pain. However, there are ways that this pain can be prevented.”

The back is a complicated structure of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. Sometimes, even the simplest, everyday tasks, such as picking something up from the floor, can cause misalignments of the spine.

Maple Lake Chiropractic, the Michigan Association of Chiropractors and the American Chiropractic Association suggest these tips to reduce the risk of spinal injury:

• Don’t lift by bending over. Instead, bend your hips and knees and then squat to pick up the object. Keep your back straight, and hold the object close to your body.
• Don’t twist your body when lifting.
•  Push, rather than pull, when you must move heavy objects.
• If you must sit for long periods, such as in front of a computer monitor, take frequent breaks and stretch.
• Wear flat shoes or shoes with low heels.
• Exercise regularly. An inactive lifestyle contributes to lower-back pain.

“The key to spinal health is prevention,” said Dr. Hines. “These simple tips can make all the difference in the world in stopping low-back pain before it happens. However, prevention is the best option, visit your MAC chiropractor as soon as possible.”