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If you have any questions at all about your health or symptoms you are experiencing, feel free to send a message directly to Dr. Michael! ​
ASK DR. MICHAEL

​Dr. Michael Pim proudly holds a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, the recognized fountainhead of chiropractic and where his father Dr. Desmond Pim formerly of Reading, UK, also graduated from. Dr. Michael has practiced professionally as a chiropractor and owned and operated practices in Reading, Hurst, Crowthorne, Camberly in England and Bangor, Dungannon, Carryduff in Northern Ireland, and Spain, Gibraltar, and the USA, transforming lives globally through his expertise in spinal health and holistic and natural healthcare.
 
By choice, Dr. Michael removed himself from the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) in December 2021. This decision reflects his commitment to practicing chiropractic care with integrity and staying true to the profession’s foundational principles. His extensive qualifications, international recognition, and ability to provide exceptional natural health care remain unwavering.
 
At Health and Wellness Centres, we are honored to offer care rooted in Dr. Michael’s unparalleled experience and lifelong dedication to empowering patients on their journey to optimal health naturally.

Is Your Posture Aging You? Reset it in 14-Days!

6/5/2025

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We all think we know what “good posture” looks like. Sit up straight. Pull your shoulders back. Don’t slouch. But the real question is: Why does posture matter so much? And what’s the cost of ignoring it?
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Let’s be clear: poor posture doesn’t just affect how you look. It slowly undermines how you function, AND how you age.
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A Silent Downward SpiralEvery day, I see people who are tired, stiff, foggy-headed, or constantly “off.” Some blame it on getting older. Others chalk it up to stress. But many of these issues can be traced back to one simple, overlooked root: chronic postural stress.

When your spine is out of alignment, everything has to work harder. Your nervous system (which controls every cell, tissue, and organ in your body) becomes irritated or disrupted. Your muscles stay tense long after the task is over. Your breathing becomes shallow. Digestion slows. Sleep is restless. Energy plummets. And yes, over time, it accelerates aging. 
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Most people don’t connect these dots. They treat symptoms one by one: a pill for headaches, a massage for shoulder tension, an energy drink for fatigue. But without fixing the foundation - your posture - you will never truly get better!
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What the Research Shows
  • Over 80% of adults suffer from posture-related pain or dysfunction
  • In adults over 65, poor posture is linked to higher fall risk, frailty, and cognitive decline
  • A stooped posture can increase mortality risk by up to 44%, according to long-term aging studies
  • “Tech neck” — forward head posture — can add as much as 60 pounds of extra force to your spine
  • And it often starts years before symptoms appear.

Four Sides of Health — One Common LinkFor decades I've educated patients about whole health. That means supporting the four connected sides of well-being:
  • Spinal and nervous system function
  • Physical structure
  • Nutrition and cellular support
  • Mental and emotional balance
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POSTURE AFFECTS ALL FOUR!
It’s the foundation your body either builds upon or collapses from.
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The 3-Step Framework to Reset Posture (and Keep It)
Here’s how we address posture in a way that leads to lasting change:
1. Adjust.
Restore alignment and remove interference through precise chiropractic care. This is the clinical reset that gets the nervous system back on track.
2. Actively Correct.
This is your role. Use our 14-Day Posture Reset Challenge to retrain your daily habits — how you sit, stand, move, and work.
3. Anchor.
Reinforce and maintain the change. That means upgrading your environment, staying conscious of your body, and continuing care.

Posture isn’t a one-time fix. It’s a lifelong anchor to better function and healthier aging.

Your Next Step:
​📥 DOWNLOAD THE 14-DAY POSTURE RESET TRACKER → HERE
📍 Bring it to your next adjustment for tailored insights and custom guidance.

A chiropractic adjustment isn’t just for pain relief. It’s for restoring how your body works and how it was meant to heal.

Let’s realign, reset, and anchor what your body’s been asking for.

Got questions? Please don't hesitate to ask!
Dr. Michael Pim
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Patient Spotlight: Angela's Triumph After a Life-Changing Accident

1/4/2025

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FROM TRAUMA TO TRIUMPH:
How Angela Reclaimed Her Strength and Confidence After a Life-Changing Accident
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When Injury Changes Everything: 
On September 16, 2024, Angela’s life took a sudden turn. A serious car accident left her body in complete trauma: crippling back pain, whiplash, knee and foot pain, chest pain, and a loss of core strength and balance. Both physically and mentally, she felt broken.

Knowing she needed expert care, she returned to Health & Wellness Centres, where she had found relief before.

A body scan revealed significant misalignment caused by the force of the accident. The impact had resulted in subluxations or misalignments of the spine that put pressure on the nervous system, limiting the body's ability to move freely and heal.

Because I specialise in chiropractic adjustments, I reassured Angela that while recovery would take time, her body was capable of healing with the right care.

The Path to Healing:Recovery wasn’t instant, but over the last five months, Angela has made remarkable progress.

Regular adjustments and tailored care have helped her:
  • Restore spinal alignment and nerve function to injured areas but also to her entire body which is vital to overall health and wellbeing. 
  • Regain strength, balance, and mobility so that movement is not overcompensating for sometimes "easier and faster" options of "living with pain" or "living on pain meds" without taking the time to address core issues. 
  • Reduce pain and discomfort without drugs or surgery as the first options. 
  • Return to driving and daily life with confidence and the ability to focus and thrive vs living with discomfort or side effects of a constant need for drugs to mask root causes.
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Providing a calm, professional, and supportive atmosphere, allows patients to feel at ease throughout the process. I believe this is key for healing as well. Your body's environment matters and it can add value and confidence to patients' mental, emotional, and physical states in a profound way. 

Angela is an exceptional example of what can happen when we seek the right treatment at the right time and I look forward to continuing to support and guide her to better and better outcomes. 
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SPINE TIP OF THE MONTH: Why Accidents Cause Long-Term Spinal MisalignmentsAfter an accident, the force of impact can shift vertebrae out of place. This creates subluxations where misaligned vertebrae compress nerves, restrict movement, and interfere with the body’s natural healing process.
Even minor car accidents can cause:
➡ Whiplash – Misalignment of the neck, leading to headaches, dizziness, and nerve pain
➡ Pelvic Misalignment – A shift in the hips and lower back, causing knee and foot pain
➡ Nerve Compression – Resulting in numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness
➡ Chronic Pain & Tension – Due to improper healing when misalignments go uncorrected
The key to long-term recovery isn’t just pain relief, it’s spinal correction. What does that do for you after an injury or accident?
  1. Restore proper spinal alignment after trauma
  2. Reduce inflammation and nerve interference
  3. Prevent long-term complications from untreated injuries
If you’ve been in an accident—no matter how small—your spine may have misalignments that could lead to long-term issues.
My goal is to detect areas of nerve interference - places where the natural flow of electricity is compromised and preventing the body from healing or regulating itself as it should. Ignoring this only leads to higher costs and a diminished quality of life. At a time when disease care seems to create more dependence on drugs, the goal should be to take control of your health naturally - not just to see if it’s possible, but to prove that it is.

📅 Book your next visit and let’s get you back in sync!
 
Yours in health,
Dr. Michael Pim
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PATIENT SPOTLIGHT

6/3/2025

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FROM PAIN TO WELLNESS: How David T Reduced His Medication by 80% and is Taking His Health into His Own Hands
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As part of this year's "FROM PAIN TO WELLNESS SERIES" I am spotlighting patients who have real results to share. It is my hope that this will inspire everyone to continue on their HEALTH Journey so we don't find ourselves declining into more dis-ease. Enjoy David's story and be sure to let me know if you'd like me to share your story next!
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When pain lingers, it doesn’t just affect the body, it impacts everything. For one of my patents, David, the daily challenges of lower back stiffness and limited mobility had become a constant struggle. Having relief from coming in before, he returned seeking help again.
 
This time, discovering that true healing goes beyond in-the-moment pain relief.
 
When patients return after a year or more with recurring or new pain, it tells me one thing: there is a blockage in the nervous system. By the time a symptom appears (no matter what it is), something deeper has already been going on for a long time. If there’s been no accident or injury, it almost always comes down to a pattern of stress that is keeping your body in survival mode. And most of us don’t even realise that it is happening until we feel or see a symptom.
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Our bodies can handle a lot of stress before they start sending "HELP!!" signals. Those help signals appear in the form of symptoms like pain, constant fatigue, headaches, inflammation, high blood pressure, low energy, and even loss of motivation and drive. These aren’t just physical warning signs; they reflect the deeper connection between your mind, body, spirit, and nervous system.  

But here’s the thing - symptoms are often the last thing to appear, not the first. That’s why chiropractic adjustments aren’t just about treating pain; they help reset your nervous system, restoring balance, clarity, and energy so your body can function the way it was designed to.

 DAVID’S TRANSFORMATION:
In David’s case, misalignment in his neck, lumbar spine, hips, and knees created nerve interference that affected his lungs - something he never expected. Without proper nerve flow, his body couldn’t function optimally.
 
A Breakthrough in Breathing & Overall Health:
Once we started realigning his spine, his lung function improved so much that he reduced his medication by 80% - medication he had been using for over 40 years!
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David also started making small but powerful changes:
✔ Filtered water for better hydration and detoxification
✔ Nose breathing techniques to improve oxygen flow
✔ Daily posture awareness to reduce tension
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 I'd like to thank David for trusting me and sharing his experience. Stories like this inspire others to take control of their life and health and remind us that when we listen to our bodies and address the root causes, real transformation happens.
 
SPINE TIP OF THE MONTH: Is Your Body Sending the Right Signals?
Every movement, breath, and organ function in your body depends on a healthy nervous system free from blockages. Misalignments prevent proper nerve flow to your brain and body leading to nerve interference which results in things like pain, fatigue, stress, and even long-term health issues.

David’s story is proof that regular chiropractic care can literally be life-changing.

If you haven’t been in for a while, and are now wondering:
➡ Am I functioning at my best, or just getting by?
➡ Are misalignments that I am not aware of holding me body back in some way?
➡ Is my body receiving the right signals for true wellness and longevity?My goal is to detect areas of nerve interference - places where the natural flow of electricity is compromised and preventing the body from healing or regulating itself as it should. Ignoring this only leads to higher costs and a diminished quality of life. At a time when disease care seems to create more dependence on drugs, the goal should be to take control of your health naturally--not just to see if it’s possible, but to prove that it is.

📅 Book your next visit or if you don't live in the area but still need help with your health get in touch and let’s get you back in sync!
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NEW SERIES LAUNCH: FROM PAIN TO WELLNESS - TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH NATURALLY

10/11/2024

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Throughout my Spine Health Series, a lot of patients reached out with deeper questions about their health and wellness. Some of these conversations led to better health outcomes as we were able to dive deeper into your goals and concerns that you never thought to bring up before. 
 
Many don’t realise that chiropractic care supports WHOLE HEALTH, which can lead to greater happiness, less pain, and a better quality of life! Unlike traditional medics who focus on single issues, Doctors of Chiropractic are trained in the holistic approach to health, addressing ALL aspects of well-being with spine alignment at the foundation.
 
This new series “From Pain to Wellness”, will address top health concerns from a holistic and chiropractic point of view. We are living in a time where the need to get educated and to be more proactive about our own health is beyond important. IT’S AN EMERGENCY. I hope you enjoy this next series. Please feel free to share it with your family and friends so we can help more people to be well and thrive. 

THE POWER OF HOLISTIC SOLUTIONS:
As of 2024, health across the UK has reached a critical low point. Reports indicate that chronic health issues are rising faster than we can treat them. Heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, mental health struggles, dementia/Alzheimer’s, ADD/ADHD, chronic respiratory illnesses, infertility, early onset of adult diseases in children, and chronic pain are at the forefront of a growing list of public health concerns in our community. People are searching for answers but feel trapped in a cycle of never-ending “solutions” that, a lot of times, do not address the root of their problems, often leaving them feeling worse and even sicker.
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Sources: British Heart Foundation and gov.uk
These challenges are impacting all age groups, from 1 in 3 children facing obesity before their teenage years to an increasing number of elderly individuals living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. This rising health crisis does not just affect those who are ill; it places a heavy burden on families, caregivers, and communities as well.

People are frustrated with a healthcare system that seems to rely on medications and invasive procedures, and don't really know where to turn or what to do. Family members caring for loved ones with chronic conditions face their own health challenges, creating a cycle of stress and issues that extend beyond the patients themselves. Now, more than ever, there’s a pressing need for a way to support whole-body health and wellness. And I believe chiropractic adjustments and holistic care is the way to go. 

What People Really Want and Need:
The interest for natural health solutions is growing. Recent data shows that UK residents are increasingly interested in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) as a first line of defense before resorting to drugs or surgery. In fact, 20% of UK adults have used practitioner-led CAM therapies, including chiropractic, in the past year. This shift reflects a growing trend toward health practices that support the body’s natural healing ability.

A Holistic Approach to Health: Chiropractic Care as the Foundation:
In my years of practice, I’ve seen firsthand what people really want: freedom from pain and stress. People want to feel empowered in their health journey and want to achieve long-lasting wellness.

Spinal health, through chiropractic adjustments, offer a path to true wellness by supporting the body's natural ability to heal itself. Unlike treatments that simply mask symptoms, chiropractic care targets the nervous system and optimises its function. The nervous system is crucial in regulating every organ, muscle, and cell, ensuring that the heart, immune system, and other vital functions operate as they should.

All my patients know that supporting their nervous system is where my treatment plans begin. From there, I assess other things that require attention like posture, flexibility, muscle strength, balance, nutrition, daily movement, stress management, mindset, past traumas, and more. Health must be looked at as a whole, not as separate, disconnected pieces.

Imagine going to the doctor every month for a persistent headache only to be handed pills to dull the pain. The problem is still there, unaddressed. When patients come to me, I take them through multiple diagnostics to help them get to the root of their problems. In the case of a headache, the root might be physical, biological, nutritional, emotional, mental, or even a combination of these factors. I've been committed to educating my patients to see their health from this comprehensive view. Why? Because it works.
 
The Path to THRIVING HEALTH Starts Here:
All it takes is a commitment to a way of life centered around wellness. Imagine if you could be 10%, 20%, or even 30% more energetic, more mentally alert, or that much happier. Imagine feeling grounded, stable, and truly well. What would life be like?

If you're interested in taking your life and health to the next level, be sure to get in touch with me here. Your health always comes first. ​
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October 08th, 2024

8/10/2024

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Misalignment or injury to your coccyx can disrupt the balance and alignment of your entire spinal column, leading to discomfort and compensation issues in other areas of the body. A coccyx that is aligned, however, can affect posture POSITIVELY and in turn help with standing, walking, sitting, and so much more. 
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Your coccyx sits at the foundation of your spine and serves as a structural support for many muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the pelvic area. It acts as an anchor for the muscles of the pelvic floor, which play a vital role in supporting pelvic organs such as the bladder, intestines, and reproductive organs.
 
Here are some interesting facts about your coccyx that you probably didn’t know:
  • The coccyx serves as an attachment point for several pelvic floor muscles, which are crucial for functions such as bladder and bowel control, as well as sexual function. Misalignment of the coccyx can create tension or weakness in the pelvic floor, potentially leading to discomfort, pain, or dysfunction in the pelvic region.
  • Many people experience coccyx pain (coccydynia) from prolonged sitting or after falls that damage or misalign the coccyx. A chiropractic approach seeks to restore proper alignment, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain caused by coccyx misalignment.
  • Chiropractic adjustments to the coccyx and sacrum help to correct imbalances in the lower spine and pelvis. These adjustments may relieve pain and improve mobility and posture. Adjustments can also encourage natural healing processes by restoring balance and ensuring proper nerve communication, which is essential for bodily functions.
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  • Some chiropractors and natural health practitioners believe that the coccyx has an energetic significance, as it’s connected to the root chakra (base of the spine). In holistic health, the root chakra is associated with feelings of safety, stability, and security.
  • The coccyx plays an important role in childbirth. It bends backward slightly, increasing the space in the pelvis to allow for the baby’s safe passage. This is one of the many ways the body adapts to make childbirth smoother. Misalignment of the coccyx can sometimes contribute to discomfort or complications during labor, which is why maintaining proper alignment during pregnancy can be so helpful.
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So many times, misalignments in the spine are not looked to as an option for treatment because general practitioners are not schooled in adjusting the spine. This is why it’s been my mission to educate people about the importance of your spine's health and alignment. 
 
If you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or any symptoms that have been ongoing and unresolved, I would encourage you to make an appointment so I can take you through a diagnostic intended to seek to remedy the cause without drugs or surgery as a first resort. 
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September 10th, 2024

10/9/2024

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YOUR SACRUM AKA YOUR "HOLY BONE"

Did you know that the sacrum was also called the “holy bone” by the ancient Greeks? This isn’t just because of its vital role in your body’s structure—it was called that because it protects some of the most important organs in your body, including your reproductive organs.
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The sacrum, an inverted triangular bone at the base of your spine, connects directly to your pelvis and is essential for everything from supporting your spine’s natural curve to keeping your body balanced. It links to your pelvic bones via the sacroiliac (SI) joints, which allow for movement. How well your sacrum and pelvis work together impacts everything from how you walk to how well your nerves communicate with the rest of your body.
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Movement and the Brain: How the Sacrum Does More than You Think
Ever notice how a dog wags its tail when it's happy? That’s because the sacrum plays a role in movement and balance, even in our furry friends! Just as a dog’s sacrum helps facilitate tail movement and signals happiness, the sacrum in humans is involved in pumping cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to the brain.
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When you move your pelvis, it stimulates the flow of this fluid, which delivers essential nutrients to the brain. Regular movement of your sacrum can help improve this flow, supporting brain health and potentially boosting those "feel-good" hormones, contributing to your overall sense of well-being.
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Think of the sacrum as the keystone of your body. When properly aligned, it keeps you upright, distributes your weight evenly, and enables smooth movement. But when it’s not doing its job, it can lead to:
  • Compromised Gait and Mobility: When your sacrum and pelvis are misaligned, it can negatively impact your movement, leading to stiffness and restricted mobility.
  • Strain on Joints: Misalignment of the sacrum can cause unnecessary stress on your hips, knees, and ankles, potentially leading to wear and tear, premature aging of joints, and even increasing the risk of falls.
  • Challenges in Pregnancy and Reproductive Health: A misaligned sacrum can create obstacles for women trying to conceive or facing challenges during pregnancy. Proper sacral alignment helps ensure the uterus remains in its optimal position, and when out of alignment, it can disrupt reproductive organs, hinder conception, and make pregnancy more uncomfortable or lead to complications during delivery.
  • Nerve Interference with Vital Functions: The sacrum is home to nerves that manage essential functions, including your bowel, bladder, and reproductive organs. If it’s out of alignment, this interference can lead to digestive issues, bladder dysfunction, and challenges with reproductive health.

What Can You Do About It?
You don’t have to wait for pain or discomfort to start paying attention to your sacrum. Regular chiropractic adjustments ensure that your sacrum—and the rest of your spine—stay in alignment, promoting not only better joint health but also optimal function of vital organs.

Take care of your foundation, and everything else will follow.
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August 05th, 2024

5/8/2024

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How L3, L4, and L5 Vertebrae Influence Fertility, Pregnancy, and Prostate Health

Over the last 10 years I’ve seen an increase in issues surrounding fertility, pregnancy, and prostate health. New UK statistics say that 1 in 7 couples have difficulty conceiving and the c-section rate has risen to 1 in 3 births. In the last decade prostate cancer has risen in males by 9% which tells me that pre-cancer symptoms are prevalent way before the issues turn into cancer. These remarkable numbers should be taken seriously.
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Your L3, L4, and L5 vertebrae are important when it comes to sex organs, the uterus and prostate, and the lower back and legs. Early symptoms like lower back pain, leg cramps or weakness, painful or erratic periods, and frequent urination can be precursors to bigger problems which is why it is vital to keep your spine aligned chiropractically.

While specific vertebra innervate certain areas of your body, it is always important to note that they work together with your brain as one complete system that operates your whole mind, body, and all its functions.
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L3 and Fertility: Over the years I’ve had a growing number of patients who have come to me because they were unable to conceive. I always address things from the health of both partners because that, in and of itself, can allay fears, anxiety, and stress so they are more at ease in the process. Many variables are factored in, and it can be as simple as providing alignment to subluxations in both parties which can easily address hormone health, sperm health, and other integral variables depending on the person and what is preventing them from expressing their best health.
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The nerves from the L3 vertebra play a subtle yet significant role in reproductive functions. Proper alignment and nerve function at this level may enhance pelvic blood flow and nerve efficiency, which are vital for both male and female fertility. Regular chiropractic adjustments can help optimise these bodily functions, potentially improving chances of conception.
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L3 and Pregnancy: During pregnancy, maintaining spinal health is more important than ever. The L3 vertebra's influence on the lower part of your body can affect pregnancy comfort and the health of both mother and child. Adjustments targeting L3 can help manage pregnancy-related back pain and improve overall spinal alignment, contributing to a smoother pregnancy and delivery with less complications. Many times, morning sickness, cravings, or lack of appetite can be allayed or even resolved.
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During pregnancy, partners are a vital part of the environment that nurture both mother and child. It is a big job that requires optimal health, so I always recommend couples to come in together to get adjusted. It helps to stay healthy and aligned together for the soon to be parents. It is the best preparation for all the things that come with caring for a newborn.
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L4 and Prostate Health: For men, the L4 vertebra's nerve pathways are crucial in regulating aspects of prostate health. Misalignments can disrupt nerve signals and potentially contribute to symptoms like frequent/painful urination, and/or an inability to empty one’s bladder. Addressing issues at L4 will help maintain proper prostate function throughout your life which strengthens the foundation of your health for the long term. The key is to keep your spine aligned properly so that it can continuously control and coordinate ALL the cells in your body. At the core and root of health, that is where it starts for every single human being.
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The L4 vertebra holds the key to more than just lower back health; it's a pivotal point for supporting some of life's most vital processes. This region also carries significant weight both literally and figuratively. A good way to visualise it is to imagine piling concrete blocks on each other. The ones lower to the ground are carrying the most weight.
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L5 and Lower Legs, Ankles, and Feet: Swelling, cramps, poor circulation, sciatica, week ankles, and even cold feet can be symptoms of a larger problem. It can also be an extension of the symptoms caused by fertility issues, pregnancy difficulties, and prostate issues. Reading symptoms take more than just identifying painful areas and calling them pain. It is so much more than that.
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Whether you're planning a family, already expecting, or looking to improve your reproductive, bladder, or prostate health, consider how regular chiropractic adjustments can play a role in achieving those health goals.
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I hope this helps you to see why regular maintenance appointments are more about keeping up and improving your health rather than having to address problems or emergencies later in life. Knowing those emergencies can turn into life-altering events, it is no wonder more and more people are turning to wellness care as the best insurance for their long-term health.
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Imagine a world where we don’t have to worry about alarming statistics and strive to be the ONE MORE PERSON that is not on that list! 

Making YOUR health come first,
​Dr. Michael

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LET'S TALK LOWER BACK PAIN

2/7/2024

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Lower back pain is a common complaint among patients, but it can be more than just an inconvenience. It might signal something deeper, which is why it's crucial to understand the role of the lumbar vertebrae, particularly L1 and L2. Each vertebra plays a specific role in maintaining your health, ensuring the flow of electricity and life force energy to organs, muscles, and more.
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L1 and L2:  COULD IT BE MORE THAN JUST A BACK PAIN?
L1: The L1 vertebra, located in the lower back, is crucial for supporting the spine's structure. It is responsible for innervating parts of the large intestines and some abdominal muscles. This means that proper alignment of L1 not only helps maintain posture and flexibility but also influences the digestive system. Misalignment can lead to digestive problems like constipation or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and muscle pain or strains in the lower back.

L2: The second lumbar vertebra, also supports the spine's structural integrity and affects nerves supplying the lower abdomen, thighs, and parts of the back. Proper alignment of L2 is essential for core stability and overall spinal health. Misalignment can lead to referred pain in the thighs and groin and affect lower abdominal organs, causing discomfort.

While posture and exercise are critical for maintaining spinal health, backaches can sometimes indicate more severe issues. Conditions like herniated discs, where the discs between vertebrae slip out of place, can press on nerves, causing significant pain. Spinal stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal canal, can compress nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness. Spondylolisthesis, where a vertebra slips out of place, can also lead to nerve compression and pain.

A CHIROPRACTIC SPINE ADJUSTMENT IS NOT ABOUT MUSCLES OR BONES PER SE:
A physiotherapist enhances mobility and function through rehabilitation exercises and therapies, while a chiropractic adjustment restores nerve flow and spinal alignment which is very different because that is vital for your mind, body, and emotions to function. 

I've seen many patients over the years with conditions ranging from slipped discs to spinal stenosis. One common factor is that these problems often start as minor misalignments due to stresses on the spinal areas going undetected and untreated.

Early indicators like changes in bladder habits, digestion, and sleeping patterns can signal that your spine needs checking for subluxations. Misaligned vertebrae adversely affect your nervous system, which controls your digestive system and other vital functions. The more intact your nervous system is, the fewer health problems your body will face. 
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WHY A HOLISTIC APPROACH MATTERS MORE THAN EVER:
Aligning the spine ensures proper nervous system function. This is where health begins and what must be addressed to get to the root cause. From there I work outward if symptoms persist and go through the natural triggers that can cause dis-ease. Things like movement, nutrition, and even happiness in your career or life can be the difference between a healthy outlook and outcome or not.

More and more studies prove that health begins in the mind so caring for yourself from the inside out rather than the outside in will garner you better results and longevity that is sustainable, less costly, holistic, and much more enjoyable.

SOME PRACTICAL TIPS FOR LUMBAR HEALTH
  1. Maintain Good Posture: Ensure that you are sitting and standing correctly to reduce strain on your lower back.
  2. Stay Active: Regular exercise, particularly core-strengthening activities, can support spinal health.
  3. Ergonomic Adjustments: Ensure your workspace is set up to support good posture, with a proper chair and desk height.
  4. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet supports overall health and can reduce inflammation and pain.
  5. Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, yoga, and deep breathing can help reduce stress, which can contribute to back pain.
I hope this spine series is helping you to understand the value of your own spine. I commend you for taking care of yourself and for putting your health first. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. I've gained a lot of wisdom over the years and am always happy to help others with it.
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T10, T11, T12 Stuck or Runny, Stomach Tied in Knots, Peeing Too Much or Not Enough?

4/6/2024

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T10, T11, and T12 play pivotal roles in the health of various internal organs, like the small and large intestines, kidneys, reproductive organs, appendix, stomach, and bladder. Today, I’m going to dive into the digestive and kidney systems because of the growing number of problems in this area. It is worth focusing in on how alignment of your T10, T11, and T12 can help these vital organs perform at their best.
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I saw this in the 2023 UK Gut Health Report and saw some interesting statistics that I wanted to share due to the things I've been seeing:
 
“How we’re feeling…
  1. 58% of us have experienced gut health problems, with 45% of those saying their issues are chronic. (lasting 3 months or more)
  2. Bloating and gas are the most common symptoms, with over half of us (51%) experiencing them.
  3. Find yourself stuck on the loo? You’re not alone; 33% of respondents have trouble with constipation and 28% experience diarrhoea.”
 
The survey went on to say that “41% of respondents find it difficult to break the cycle of bad gut health habits.” And “32% said they don’t know the root of their problem.”
 
I suspect there are larger numbers of people with gut health problems than we know of. The gut is the seat of your health. From there, a lot more than runny or stuck poo can happen. An unhealthy gut can lead to far more serious problems and can even harm much more than just your stomach.
 
As I always say, the first order of business is to start at your spine. Align that and then we work our way out and through all your symptoms. Whether it be lifestyle, stress levels at work, lack or too much movement, emotional well-being, or overall nutrition…a lot of things can have our tummies in knots and it’s important to get to the root of it.
 
Your entire spine works as a unit housing a significant part of your spinal cord, so its health is vital to yours.
 
T10: The Small and Large Intestine Connection
The T10 vertebra is directly connected to the nerves that serve the small and large intestines. Proper alignment of T10 ensures efficient digestion and nutrient absorption. When misaligned, it can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Along with proper nutrition and exercise (Yes, exercise directly affects the strength of your intestines), making sure your T10 is aligned can help maintain a healthy gut, which is crucial for overall wellness.
 
T11 and T12: Guardians of Kidney Health
T11 and T12 are intricately linked to kidney function. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering blood, removing waste, and balancing fluids in the body. I saw a recent report that stated that, as of today, kidney disease is considered a public health emergency that threatens to overwhelm the NHS. It went on to say that the cost to our economy will jump to £13.9 billion in less than a decade from the current £7 billion a year cost. This is a 7x jump in just 15 years, which is a lot as that number will only increase at this rate, especially if we don’t address the root cause.
 
Why are the numbers so high? The domino effect comes from a variety of lifestyle diseases on the rise, and I truly believe there is not enough information and education out there on HOW TO BE WELL. For example, one of the main reasons kidneys are affected so negatively is an increase in pain medication use. As I shared in my last newsletter, pharmaceutical drug use is on the rise for depression and anxiety, but it is also on the rise for a lot of other things. Our health system should be taking more time to educate people on HEALTH rather than the management of disease through medications. For years I have educated patients on vital things that seem so basic but could save your life and KEEP YOU WELL.
 
Misalignments in T11 and T12 can disrupt important functions, potentially leading to symptoms like lower back pain, fatigue, and even urinary issues.
 
While each vertebra has its specific role, the spine operates as a cohesive unit. Misalignments in T10, T11, or T12 can have cascading effects on other parts of the body, illustrating the importance of a comprehensive spinal healthcare plan.
 
Adjustments aim to correct misalignments, restoring proper nerve function to the entire body. By addressing the root cause of symptoms rather than just the symptoms themselves, you not only help to correct the problem, but you avoid living with pain and suffering and all the costs that come with that.
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Regular adjustments can help prevent future issues, reverse current ones, improve organ function, and enhance your overall quality of life.
 
If you have any questions about your symptoms or spinal health, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your health should be your priority!
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THE ALARM BELLS ARE GOING OFF BUT ARE YOU LISTENING? (T9 AND STRESS)

17/5/2024

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The state of health in the UK is dire. The rate of disease growth is far outweighing the right solutions to correct them. 

As many of you know, I am a proponent of addressing the cause of disease rather than the effects. I believe a holistic course of action can flip our staggering numbers around. An exponentially growing state of un-health affects us ALL. If the hospitals are overcrowded, doctors maxed out, and pharmaceutical drugs continue to rise like this, we are buying ourselves time for unsustainable outcomes. 

The health of our people affect the health of our schools, offices, neighborhoods, public services, and ultimately our nation. Doctors like me feel it is more important than ever to begin educating the general public en masse so we can be a part of the solution rather than watch the current quick fixes crumble the health of our communities before our eyes. 

The Alarm Bells Are Going Off, But Are We Listening?

According to a report published by the Statista Research Department in January 2024, stress-related illnesses account for over $14.7 billion USD in healthcare expenditure per year in the UK.
 
The cost is growing exponentially.
 
Which is why I thought it important to talk about T9 by itself but, more importantly - stress, health, and working with your body instead of against it.
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DID YOU KNOW THAT ALIGNING YOUR T9 CAN HELP EASE YOUR STRESS?
A simple adjustment of your T9 vertebra can ease stress, keep your feelings and mood more balanced, and give you greater peace of mind when going through everyday outside stressors. T9 is directly connected to your adrenal glands, which perform many essential functions in your body.

YOUR ADRENAL GLANDS: Produce cortisol and adrenaline, regulate your blood pressure, support your metabolism, modulate your immune function, influence moods and emotions, and maintain your fluid balance and sleep cycles.

IN OTHER WORDS THEY ARE VERY IMPORTANT.

ALIGNING YOUR SPINE. IT’S AN INSIDE JOB:
With an epidemic of illnesses and chronic diseases rising faster than we can treat them, I believe that keeping your spine aligned is the key place to START. When your adrenal functions are out of balance, it starts a snowball effect of symptoms piling on one another. As time goes by, they worsen, but attention tends to focus on the most recent flare-ups rather than addressing the root cause.

Remember…inside out rather than outside in.

I discuss this every day with patients so they see and understand the importance of it but most people go about their health in this way. Each vertebra in your body plays a vital role in the health of the nerves that are connected to it. Your spine is made up of 24 freely movable vertebrae. You have billions of neurons within your spinal cord and brain, and trillions of nerves that make up the nervous system. They all work in harmony to keep you alive, well, and functioning.

Everything from your eyes 👀 reading these words to how your brain processes the information to how it makes you feel are all functions of your spine and nervous system working together. No one talks about or even thinks to talk about how essential the health of your spine is, and society has strayed far from looking to it as the core foundation of one’s health.
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WHY DO WE LOOK TO THE SPINE ANYWAY?
No one really gets into great discussion as to why Hippocrates, the Father of Modern Medicine, is famously quoted as saying: “Look well to the spine for the cause of disease.”

Let’s think about this. Hippocrates was alive during the Classical Greek period (between 470 and 370 BC). He is renowned to this day by all walks of doctors and healthcare professionals. He opened the door to evidence-based diagnosis after shifting the sole focus from supernatural causes.

He believed that by looking, listening, and understanding what was going on in the spine as the starting point, one could then rule out a disruption of electricity or nerve supply as the cause of the disruption, interruption, or eruption. Not only could you analyze and treat symptoms more thoughtfully, but you could assure more success for the patient.

Imagine if you went to the mechanic because your car was spluttering as you drive, and they told you that you should buff out the surface paint scratches and repaint your car? Back in Hippocrates’ days, it was known how important and vital it was to find the root cause of dis-ease by working inside-out instead of outside-in. I believe that addressing the cause is a much better long term strategy than just trying to suppress symptoms. 
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MODERN MEDICINE AND MODERN FIXES: THE GOOD AND BAD OF IT
While so many exciting advances have evolved from the days of Hippocrates, one of the biggest is pharmaceutical drugs. This really took off around the mid to late 20th century – with the 1980s marking a notable period of expansion, which is very recent when you think about it.

Pharmaceuticals have their place, especially for some emergencies or life-and-death situations. They can be remarkable for what they can do. However, a pill for every ailment is not the right way to go. Some modern fixes, though seemingly great, take away our body’s natural strength, resilience, and ability to fight and function well. Instead of weakening our system, it is vital that we continually strengthen it as much as we can, naturally.

We are living in a time of the highest stress rates ever, and we are treating the stress with drugs that have side effects longer than the symptom they are trying to treat.

In the UK, more medications are being dispensed for depression and anxiety than we have ever seen in history. Yet the number of people experiencing symptoms from stress (including young people pre-puberty) is skyrocketing.

I did a quick ask of AI: “What are the three main drugs for depression and their contrasting side effects.” This was the answer:

“Three main drugs commonly prescribed for depression are:
  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Examples include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and escitalopram (Lexapro). Common side effects may include nausea, insomnia, headache, and sexual dysfunction.
  • Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): Examples include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta). Side effects can include increased blood pressure, dizziness, drowsiness, and sweating.
  • Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): Examples include amitriptyline (Elavil) and nortriptyline (Pamelor). Side effects may include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, and increased heart rate.
While these medications can be effective in treating depression, they may also come with the risk of worsening symptoms in some individuals.”
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At the rate that the use of these drugs is increasing as an "easy button" for relief, it seems the number of people "needing" them is also increasing. So what can you do?
Why It's Important To Understand Chiropractic Philosophy
When I attended Palmer College of Chiropractic, we were taught the art, science, and philosophy of chiropractic. We went through rigorous schooling equal to and sometimes more in hours than a medical doctor. We earned the same biology degree, but our main expertise was the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system working together in harmony for the overall functioning of HEALTH within the entire body.
 
Chiropractic education focused on how to keep patients well – IN HEALTH – from the inside out starting with aligning the spine, then working outward. The misconception is that a chiropractic adjustment helps you if you have a whiplash or sore back, but misalignments happen under a variety of circumstances depending on the individual. Everything from physical habits, mental and emotional traumas, a pattern of thinking, toxins in the environment, or malnourishment from eating too much processed food can cause our spine and nervous system to “speak up” and ask for attention.
 
Performing an adjustment is not about “cracking bones” but undoing vital blockages and giving life energy back to where it was lost.
 
Will You Help Spread The Word?
The bottom line is your body has an incredible ability to heal itself when given the right support and conditions. By prioritizing spinal health and taking a proactive approach to wellness, you can unlock your body's innate potential for healing and vitality. And most of all for a happy, healthy, long life.

If you found this information to be helpful and know someone who could benefit from it, please forward it and share it with them. 
 
Because everyone's health matters,

Dr. Michael
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