How does your chiro care for their spine? Q & A with Dr. Hayden Belle
It’s natural to be a little bit curious about how chiropractors take care of their spines – they have thousands of hours of knowledge and training, after all. Are there tips and tricks for better back health that only the pros know?
We sat down with Dr Hayden Belle to find out, picking his brains on all things health: how he tends to his spine, fitness and general wellbeing (even when he’s busy being a business owner, practitioner and father of two).
Keep reading to hear his surprising advice.
Hey Hayden! As a chiropractor, how do you personally care for your spine?
Well, the funny thing is, chiropractors ask a lot of our spines! We’re always bending over adjusting people or twisting in (potentially) awkward ways. We have to be careful not to create problems for ourselves.
To keep my spine healthy, I take the time to have an adjustment each week, remind myself to practice good posture, stay hydrated, and change up my movements during the day (like switching between standing, sitting, stretching and walking).
What about fitness? Do you follow a strict ‘chiro approved’ fitness program?
In reality, we probably take it easier than you think! When it comes to longevity and keeping the body in good working order, less is more. I always give the example of an ultra marathon runner who’s exceptionally fit, but winds up needing a hip replacement. Anything done in excess is damaging, while doing nothing is equally unhelpful. It’s about finding that middle ground, that sense of balance.
If your goals are longevity and movement into old age (which sound pretty good to me), research suggests that activities like walking briskly or light jogging and bodyweight exercises (such as squats, lunges and push ups) a few times per week are the way to go. Simply moving more each day is better than extreme fitness training.
So, I tend to keep my routine quite simple. I see a personal trainer once a week and complement that with cardiovascular exercise I enjoy, like walking or bike riding – plus playing with the kids.
How does a healthy lifestyle fit into your spine care routine?
Even though I’m a chiropractor and have a special interest in the spine, I know that a healthy lifestyle is super important. I’m mindful of my stress levels, taking active steps not to become ‘that overworked person’ – not always easy! I try to prioritise rest, sleep, good relationships, sunshine… all these things can reduce inflammation, increase vitality and facilitate the body’s innate healing ability.
Can you tell us more about specific foods and supplements for spinal health?
An anti-inflammatory diet is key when it comes to keeping the spine healthy and pain-free. Foods rich in omega-3s such as oily fish, grass fed meats, pastured eggs, cod liver oil and certain nuts and seeds help balance out our omega-6-heavy modern lifestyles, reducing inflammation and pain. Many people find that limiting grains, sugar, dairy and processed foods makes a huge difference in how they feel, fast. And the very simple adage of ‘eating your veggies’ is a great place to start.
In terms of specific supplements, everybody’s different. But minerals like magnesium are our go-to. Magnesium is necessary for over 300 functions in the body, and helps reduce muscle pain and cramping, reduces inflammation, ensures other nutrients are absorbed… the benefits are endless.