There are numerous studies showing how effective the chiropractic adjustment can be for back pain, neck pain, headaches and many problems in the legs and arms. Some of that research suggests that the spinal adjustment has an immediate effect on the neurological system, along with improved mobility and a relief of symptoms. It also affects other body systems positively and may even lower your blood pressure, an added bonus. The fascial system plays a large part in how we move and is part of an exoskeleton that animals have which allows us to move. It is not just the muscles that are behind our strength and flexibility. Of course, there is more to understand since restrictions of the fascia in the body are developmental, and can also be developed after poorly adapting to gravity, body style, growth patterns and our daily living habits. In our office, we use treat- test- treat protocols to improve muscular coordination and function. Weak or dysfunctional glutes or improper neurological patterns in how we walk can be part of why some people experience lower back pain, knee pain, ankle problems and more. Improving function does occur with a chiropractic adjustment but a more global approach to how we move and to readapt to a better level of function requires Work on the fascia to improve movement using myofascial release, Graston technique and other methods.. Exercises performed both in and outside the office to improve neurological and muscular strength and reeducate poor movement patterns. Manipulation to improve joint function and overall movement of the skeletal structures. While there are no short cuts to improved function, there are more efficient approaches to help you improve faster, improve strength and improve function to an area of the body. One exercise that teaches us control is called Deer in Headlights. According to google, work on the fascia to improve movement and control, the “deer in headlights” exercise is a glute activation drill that teaches you to isolate and squeeze each glute muscle individually. You lie on your back with knees bent, place your hands under your buttocks to feel the muscles, and then contract your right glute, followed by the left, and finally both. This exercise is more mental than physical, helping to build a mind-muscle connection and preventing other muscles like the hamstrings from taking over. We then progress to a glute bridge on one side, then the other side and then progress to pelvic tilts not using the hamstrings but learning to control the pelvis, the tilt of the pelvis and teach your brain how to engage the glutes for more power, a better stride and fewer problems overall. While this may seem different if you are used to protocoled care, our goal is to improve function which reduces pain and improves how you move. After working with the patient and having them perform these exercises daily at home, they are looser and will usually see the legs loosen up during the session without working on the glues directly or the hip flexors. Sometimes, we forget the mind controls how we move and function. Sometimes, we have to relearn how to use our bodies during rehabilitation for the best result. A much younger Dr. Charschan working a track and field event. Why think chiropractic sports medicine first? A holistic and diagnostic approach to care with process of elimination will solve most problems quicker and more cost effectively than a multi specialist approach. Our chiropractic office keeps it simple with the doctor who is treating and diagnosing you performing and teaching you the exercises as well. Your first visit consists of a detailed history and evaluation and we usually treat on the first day. Our No. Brunswick office has x-ray on premises if required to eliminate having to visit elsewhere if you are in pain. If foot orthotics are needed during the visit to begin the process of helping you, we have both off the shelf and custom options if needed. Most patients do nicely with off the shelf inserts that are customized to you and get the job done for most people. Chiropractic manipulation of the spine and extremities is important to improve how you move. We are a one stop shop for getting the relief you want for your musculoskeletal problems. Our patient centered approach will help you feel and function better efficiently and effectively. It is really as simple as that. Call or request an appointment on line and then come in to either of our offices to get the care you need.