What's Your Turning Point?
Saratoga Chiropractic office, Turning Point Chiropractic, takes a unique patient-centered approach to help you tackle whatever stands in the way of a healthy and happy lifestyle.
Have you ever dealt with a problem you knew had a simple solution and all you had to do was find the best person to help you? Patients come into Turning Point Chiropractic in Saratoga Springs daily saying they thought they were never going to get better. Others say they felt like they had to settle for their “new normal” of low-grade pain or discomfort or knew they would never be able to (insert activity here) again. Sometimes all you need is a little help.
Turning Point Chiropractic was opened in October 2011 by Dr. Adam Favro with the vision of providing a service to seek out the epicenter of a patients symptoms and take a comprehensive approach to care. No big healthcare system to navigate. No referrals needed. Quality time with a doctor who has extensive experience and knowledge of the human body and how to fix it.
At Turning Point Chiropractic, the doctors have additional training in diagnostics, radiology, biomechanics, rehabilitation, strength training, sports performance, and more. Our chiropractors are not only equipped to accurately diagnose your symptoms but create a treatment plan that helps you get out of pain faster and stay healthy longer.
Our chiropractors believe at the heart of every treatment plan is movement. The more you move, the better you feel. The better you feel the more you move. You didn’t get hurt by just sitting there so why should your treatment be you just sitting there? We don’t know either. When you come to Turning Point Chiropractic your exam will include movement assessments, your treatment will involve movement and your homework will be to move.
For too long the healthcare system has not encourage patients to be active in their own treatment, give feedback on how they feel, and take control of the progress. When patients and doctors are invested in a goal to not only help you feel better but improve the way you live, great things happen. That is what we believe in. That is the Turning Point!
For a free consultation with our doctors and to learn more about the Turning Point Chiropractic treatment system, call us at (518) 584-9500 or click here.
How to Win at the Races
Heading to the Saratoga Race Course this summer? Winning isn’t always about making money. Check out our chiropractic blog from Dr. Patrick Campbell, chiropractor on how to get the most out of your day at The Spa!
Hello Saratoga!
It’s that time of year, track season is right around the corner. Even though I am new to Saratoga, I’m quite familiar with the buzz and electricity that comes with opening day. I spent summers visiting Saratoga and grew up a mile from Belmont Racetrack. With this being the longest meet yet, there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy a day at the races and we wanted to share some useful tips to help you win the day!
Hydration
Make sure you are staying hydrated by drinking the recommended amount of water. Typical recommendations are usually the 8 by 8 rule, 8 glasses of 8 fluid ounces. While this is a great starting point, if we wanted to get a bit more specific we would actually look to drink half our body weight in fluid ounces. This means if you weigh 100 lbs, your recommended intake would be 50 fluid ounces. Our bodies our 70% water, so make sure you are setting yourself up to succeed with proper hydration intake. We are lucky to live in a city where we can take a quick trip to the state park and fill up a couple jugs of natural spring water, so there should be no excuses here.
Footwear
Choose your footwear wisely. Proper fitting shoes on a race horse can make or break their chances at beating the odds and our selection is no different for avoiding dreaded heel pain after a day on your feet. While it might not make sense from a fashion standpoint, trying to avoid footwear with an elevated heel is recommended. Having your heel propped up not only makes your leg do more work to balance it also increases tension in the calf. Another recommendation would be wearing footwear with a wide toe box. Our toes are designed to be able to grip the ground. Narrow toe boxes in shoes also make the foot and leg work harder because the base becomes smaller. They can also be a reason for bunion formation from long term use.
Your Seat
Just like your footwear matters, so does what you sit on. If you are lucky enough to snag a picnic table, try bringing a padded cushion to sit on to avoid hip and low back pain. If you are bringing your own chair, be aware that most camping or lawn chairs have a bottom that forces your tailbone to rotate under our hips which can place a good amount of pressure on our low back, specifically the discs. If you aren’t in the market to buy or replace your current chair try placing a towel roll vertically along your spine against the back of the chair. This accompanied by placing your weight in your SIT bones will help take pressure off the low back. Periodic breaks from sitting are also helpful. As we like to say, “The best posture is the next one.”
Wagering
This last tip only applies if you are making any wagers during your day at the track. If you are, have some fun and a pick a long shot. My favorite is a $2 bet to win, place and show which comes out to $6 total. I was lucky enough to have this pan out on 8/23/08 at Saratoga Racetrack. Below is a video of the race that put a little extra cash in my pocket. Maybe some of you Saratoga faithful remember the day Slambino hit at 88-1.
If you have any questions about the content about, or would like to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (518) 584-9500. I hope you have a happy and healthy summer.
Three Things You Never Knew About Spinal Discs
Saratoga Springs Chiropractor, Dr. Adam N. Favro, talks about the science behind the spinal disc and busts some popular myths about back pain.
Three Things you Never Knew About Spinal Discs
As a chiropractor in Saratoga, I see a variety of conditions ranging from stiff necks to cancer. It is my job to properly diagnose each patient and provide them the option that is best for them. One of the most common conditions that comes through our door is low back pain. In fact, studies show that 80% of the population will experience low back pain at some point in their life. During my exam with the patient I am almost always asked, “What if it’s a disc?”. As a population we have been conditioned to think the disc is the most problematic part of our spine. To put your mind at ease here are three things about the spinal disc you probably never knew:
1. Degeneration is Normal
That’s right, your body is a bunch of moving parts and was designed to wear down. Our discs are made up of a fibrous cartilage with fluid inside. As we age the discs become dehydrated and get smaller. Degeneration is a normal part of the aging process and does NOT have to contribute to pain. So the next time you get an x-ray and someone tells you you have “degenerative disc disease”, don’t panic.
2. Bulging Discs are Okay
At least 30% of people are walking around right now with a bulging disc and don’t have any lower back pain. Some researchers believe the discs in our spine will bulge as part of a protective mechanism and retract shortly after. This does not mean you don’t have to take care of your spine. Doing core exercises will help protect the disc from bulging and give you a mechanical advantage when moving.
3. They never slip!
Discs bulge, age, and sometimes herniate, but they never slip. The disc is so firmly attached to the vertebrae above and below it is impossible to slip. If you experience pain from the disc, it is most likely a ligament strain - similar to spraining your ankle.
Many people are fearful of injuring the disc in their back but you are more resilient than you think. Watch just about any sporting event and know the number of disc issues is extremely rare. If you are suffering from back pain, give our office a call. We use the most current diagnostic and screening tests to determine the most effective treatment plans including rehabilitation exercises and programs designed just for you. If we feel you need x-rays, an MRI or other specialized tests, we have the ability to order the test directly from our office.
Tips for Running in the Winter
Running in Saratoga Springs can be great in the summer but challenging in the winter. This article has some tips on staying safe if you chose to venture outside to get your miles in. Our Saratoga Springs chiropractic office has helped many runners stay fit and healthy through the winter months while still training outside.
Tips for Running in the Winter
Running is one of the most popular sports in the country. It requires little gear, no membership, and you can run anywhere. As long as you have a pair of shoes and some time, you can run. That is, unless you live in the Northeast. Running in the summer around Saratoga Springs is amazing. One can get lost running by old victorians, through the Saratoga Spa State Park or through the Saratoga Battlefield. The winter months can make you think twice about your choice of exercise. If you’re determined to continue training, here are a few tips.
Be Seen
If you are like most people, your running times are either early in the morning or after work which means you’ll likely be running in the dark. We suggest you wear reflective gear on the middle of your body, and somewhere on your arms or legs. If you want to go the extra mile (no pun intended), wear a headlamp as well. Snowbanks may also prevent drivers from seeing you so be alert when you are crossing streets or going into traffic.
Proper Shoes
Most running shoes are designed with mesh to keep your feet cool. In the winter, you want shoes that have the least amount of mesh. This will not only keep your feet warm, but keep out the snow and water. Of course, you also want a good pair of socks to go with those shoes and we recommend non-itchy wool socks.
Dress Appropriately
Dressing in layers is key. The air trapped between the layers is warmed by your body and acts as insulation. The biggest thing is to dress as if it were about 20 degrees warmer. You don’t want to sweat too much when you are running in the cold. That could lead to chills when you are done.
Warm up
Warming up before you head outside will make those first few minutes less stressful on your body. In other words, the cold won’t feel as cold. Especially since you were just told to dress as if it were warmer. Doing body-weight squats or lunges are a good way to get the blood flowing through your legs.
Slow down
Running outside means facing obstacles you may not know are there. Slipping is a serious danger for anyone who ventures outside in the winter months. Make sure you slow down your pace, take shorter strides, and strike the ground with a flat foot. This will help minimize the risk of slipping.
Post run recovery
After you are finished your run it is important to get out of your sweaty or wet clothes and put some dry warm clothes on. After exercise, your core temperature drops and puts you at risk for getting chills. Once you are in dry clothes, it is a good idea to drink warm fluids or have some soup. This will help you hydrate and warm your body.
Treadmill Running
If you are not interested in running in the cold or if conditions are too dangerous, the treadmill is a good alternative. To get the most out of the treadmill, put it at a 1% incline. If the treadmill has built-in fans, turn them on high as well. The incline activates the muscles required to propel you forward while the fans activate the sensory cells on your skin and remind your brain of running outside.
Whether you run in the cold, snowy weather or inside on the treadmill, it is important to stay hydrated, stretch, and take care of injuries as soon as they start. At our Saratoga Springs chiropractic office, we offer free injury screens and would be happy to answer your questions about running.
For the best running gear and expert fittings, check out our friends at iRun Local or Fleet Feet Sports!
How to use a Standing Desk
Standing desks can be a lifesaver but if you don’t know how to properly use it, you could be doing more harm than good. Saratoga Springs chiropractor, Dr. Adam Favro, addresses some key point to getting the most out of your new desk.
How to use a Standing Desk
Your new standing desk arrive and you are ready to take on the week. But what are you supposed to do with this new desk? At our Saratoga Springs chiropractic office, we are asked at least twice a week about standing desks. Are they good for you? Do they really make a difference? How do I set mine up?
According to a 2014 Gallop pole, the average American is working 49 hours a week, or 9.9 hours a day. Working is the ultimate endurance sport and, like any sport, if you don’t have the proper equipment you can struggle. Furthermore, if you don’t know how to use that equipment, you may be doing more harm than good. Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of your standing desk.
The Set Up
Setting up your desk can be a challenge but there are some simple things to keep in mind. First, your monitor should be between 18-28” from your eyes with the top 1/3 of the monitor level with your eyes. Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle with your forearms resting comfortably on the desk top. The keyboard and mouse should be at a comfortable position as to not strain your wrists.
Posture
As a chiropractor, posture is the thing that hits home. Similar rules apply to standing as to sitting. We tell patients to “preserve the curve”. The spinal column is shaped like an “S”. This feature allows great movement and is important in our daily function. When fatigue sets in, the head and shoulders come forward, and the curve in the middle back (kyphosis) increases and lower back decreases. This prevents your lungs from being filled fully and decreases oxygen to the brain.
Alternate Your Position
The most problematic aspect of your 9.9 hour work day is long periods of not moving. Standing or sitting in one position causes blood to pool and muscles to get tight and weak leading to poor posture among other things. The key to success is alternating between sitting and standing. If you choose to stand, switch your foot position. Try a wider stance with your feet just wider than your shoulders. Stand with weight mostly on one leg then switch to the other or in a split stance with one leg forward and one back. We also encourage patients to get a small box they can rest their foot on.
Get an Anti-Fatigue Mat or Balance Board
Anti-fatigue mats are those memory-foam-like mats that are supposed to keep you from getting tired. The truth is, when you’re tired, your tired. The real benefit of these mats is they keep you on an unstable surface so you have to continue moving. Muscles then contract which helps blood flow. If you are looking to add a little fun in your workday, check out these balance boards. They will work on balance, posture and keep you moving.
Take Breaks
Perhaps the most important thing is to take a break. The best thing you can do for your physical and mental health is to take small, frequent breaks. Our bodies thrive on movement and stimulation. By giving yourself what you need, you will find your days more productive and enjoyable.
A standing desk can be a life changing piece of equipment, but it will not be a magic solution. There is still effort that goes into setting up the desk and knowing how to properly use. For more information on how to set up your desk or to see if you could benefit from one, give our Saratoga Springs chiropractic office a call at (518) 584-9500.
Picking the Perfect Snow Shovel
There are so many choices when picking a shovel in Saratoga Springs. How can you tell what works and what is a great marketing ploy? Check out this article where we discuss different shovels.
Straight handle, curved handle, flat blade, scooped blade. There are so many options when selecting a snow shovel it can be overwhelming. We have done some research, and testing of our own, to give you the scoop on the best snow removal tools.
Straight vs. Curved Handle
Straight Handle
Curved Handle
Curved handle snow shovels have been out for a few years. But are they worth the money? The short answer is ‘maybe’. The idea behind a short handle is to reduce bending forward when you scoop the snow. In some studies, a bent handle can reduce the load on the lower back by up to 16%. That reduction in load could add up depending on how much snow you are moving and how heavy. One thing to note is that only considers lifting the snow, not throwing it. The trick to shoveling is to use your legs to get most of your power. As people fatigue, they use their lower back instead of their legs to create force and leverage. A concept that can lead to a great deal of pain in following days.
Now that you’ve lifted the snow off the ground, what do you do with it? The ergonomics of a curved handle cause the majority of the weight to be on the front hand due to an inefficient lever. When you try and clear the snow, that font hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder must work harder than with a straight handle.
Based on our research and own experience, we feel it is best to use a traditional straight handle and reduce the risk of injury to multiple body parts. Plus, you most likely grew up shoveling with a straight handle so you are already accustomed to that design.
In this category, the straight shovel is our favorite!
Snow Shovel vs. Snow Push Shovel
Snow Plow Shovel
Snow Shovel
I have to be honest, until I really started to look into this I had no idea how many snow shovels there really were. For the sake of keeping things relatively simple, I have narrowed it down to the two most popular varieties.
To determine which one is best you need to understand what each is intended to be used for. Let’s start with the snow shovel. This has more of a flat and square blade and is best for lifting the snow. Let’s say you are clearing a sidewalk and need to pile the snow; a snow shovel may be your best bet. The push shovel is best for, well, pushing snow. In the instance of light, powdery snow a push shovel may be best to clear large areas where you don’t have to lift the snow. These blades are usually wider (18-24”) and have a rounded feature. For most people the most versatile shovel will be the traditional snow shovel as this will allow you to both push and lift the snow.
We only covered two of the many types of snow shovels but we encourage you to check out other kinds and if you have questions, let us know.
No matter what shovel you choose, please make sure you dress warm, stretch before you shovel and stay hydrated. The majority of injuries we see after a snow storm are related to shoveling snow. For more information on how to keep yourself healthy when the snow piles up, check out our post “A Chiropractor’s Guide to Surviving a Snow Storm”.
Happy Shoveling!
A Chiropractor's Guide to Surviving a Snowstorm
Saratoga Springs is known as being a Summer destination, but the Winters an be just as fun. Whether you hate the snow or love, this article is all about staying healthy when the snow falls.
Living in Saratoga Springs just about guarantees at least one snowstorm each winter. When this happens, you may find yourself shoveling snow, running inside or packing your gear to head to the mountain. Whether you’re dreading the snow or dreaming of it, check out this chiropractic guide to staying healthy for any snowstorm.
Shoveling
Shoveling snow is hard to avoid during a big storm. Whether you’re just cleaning off your sidewalk or clearing your driveway, there are a few things to keep in mind.
The green outlines posterior and anterior oblique slings. The muscle system that is dominant when doing rotational activity. These can be easily overworked on one side when shoveling.
Timing
Most people end up shoveling in the morning. If that is the case, don’t roll out of bed, throw on your clothes and head outside. Shoveling is strenuous work and a proper warm up is required. Even if that means waiting for 10 minutes and just doing some basic stretches to get your body loose.
We also recommend that you don’t eat right before you shovel. You will be moving close to 100 pounds of snow every minute. That requires a great deal of effort from your body. As with any exercise, your heart rate raises to deliver oxygen to your tiring muscles. Eating a big meal also requires an increase in heart rate and pulls blood away from the heart to aid in digestion. There are many cases of people suffering heart attacks from eating right before shoveling. Just because you’re using your snow blower doesn’t mean you’re out of the clear either. Physical stress is physical stress, your heart doesn’t know the difference.
Mechanics
The way you shovel can increase your risk of injury, especially if the snow is heavy. Make sure to bend your knees, keep the shovel close to you and move your feet. It is also beneficial to switch sides that you hold the shovel on. I know this may feel strange but it will help you build balance and strength and take let one group of muscles rest while another is working.
If you are looking for that perfect shovel and are confused about the different options, check out our post “Picking the Perfect Snow Shovel”.
Winter Sports
Dress warm
Whether you’ll be building a snowman or hitting the slopes, it is important to have the proper clothing to keep you warm. Make sure you dress in layers. Dressing in layers traps a thin amount of air that can be heated by your body to further keep you warm. Multiple layers also helps keep you dry by adding additional protection against melting snow.
keep your neck covered
When the temperature drops, the natural reaction is to tilt your head down and put your mouth and nose in your jacket. This will warm the air entering your mouth and keep your core warm. The problem is this can lead to a great deal of neck pain, shoulder pain, and headaches. So instead, make sure you wear something to keep your neck and face warm, and practice good posture.
Stay hydrated
The last, but certainly not least piece of advice, is to stay hydrated. Our bodies use water to regulate temperature. In the summer months, it is easier to tell when we are getting dehydrated but when you are cold, symptoms can be less obvious. Most people choose to get a warm beverage like coffee during colder months. It is important to note that coffee is a diuretic and that water needs to be replaced. If you drink coffee, make sure to consume double the amount of water as coffee that you drank.
Saratoga Springs transforms into a magical place after a snowstorm. At Turning Point Chiropractic, we hear the good and not-so-good impacts of snow. If you find yourself in pain, don’t make the mistake of waiting to get treated. Taking care of yourself is the only way to ensure you will enjoy all that winter has to offer. If you have any questions, give us a call. We are here to help!
