The Daily Routines of Chiropractors: How Does Your Chiro Stay Healthy?
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?
This week we let you in on your practitioner’s daily routine; how they tend to their spinal health, how they keep fit and well – plus some surprising challenges that come with the industry.
Keep reading for a chiro Q & A that offers some excellent tips for your health, too.
How do chiropractors care for their spines?
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.
Most of us have weekly adjustments to keep our spine and nervous systems healthy, as well as really focusing on our posture, staying hydrated, and changing up our 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. A good example is 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, 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.
As chiros, we lead busy lives – usually juggling family responsibilities, practice hours, admin and general to-dos. Like many people, keeping it simple is the best way to make sure we’ll stick to our fitness routine! And that’s what matters in the long run.
This might look like seeing a personal trainer once a week to build strength and technique, then complementing that with enjoyable cardiovascular exercise – like walking, bike riding or playing with the kids.
How does a healthy lifestyle fit into your spine care routine?
Even though we’re chiropractors and have a special interest in the spine, we know a healthy lifestyle is just as important. We’re mindful of stress, taking active steps not to become ‘red-faced overworked people’ – which isn’t always easy! We prioritise rest, sleep, good relationships, sunshine… things that 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 an omega-6-heavy modern lifestyle, 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.