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The Best Pillow for a Good Night’s Sleep: Why Flexi Pillows Stand Out

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Best Pillow

As chiropractors, we often emphasize the importance of maintaining proper spinal alignment while sleeping. One essential element that can significantly impact your sleep quality and spinal health is the pillow you use. While there are various types of pillows on the market, I’d like to shine a spotlight on the benefits of Flexi pillows and why they might just be the best pillow for a restorative night’s sleep.

Understanding Your Sleep Position

Before we dive into the advantages of Flexi pillows, it’s crucial to consider your sleep position. This will help you determine the best pillow for your needs:

  1. Back Sleepers: Those who sleep on their backs require a pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck without thrusting the head forward.
  2. Side Sleepers: Side sleepers need a loftier pillow that fills the gap between the neck and shoulders, maintaining alignment with the spine.
  3. Stomach Sleepers: For stomach sleepers, a flatter pillow is often best as it prevents the neck from turning excessively and helps keep the spine aligned.

Understanding your sleep position is the first step toward finding the right pillow.

The Benefits of Flexi Pillows

1. Adjustable Loft

One of the standout features of Flexi pillows is their adjustable loft. Many models come with removable layers, allowing you to customize the height and firmness to suit your specific sleep position and personal comfort preferences. This customization promotes optimal spinal alignment and can relieve pressure points, leading to a more restful sleep.

2. Spinal Alignment

Flexi pillows are designed with ergonomic principles in mind, helping you maintain a neutral spine whether you sleep on your back or side. Good spinal alignment is essential for preventing discomfort and tension. The right pillow can alleviate headaches, neck pain, and back pain by supporting the natural curves of your body.

3. Breathable Materials

Many Flexi pillows are made from breathable materials that promote airflow, reducing the risk of overheating during the night. Our sleep quality can be significantly affected by temperature, and a breathable pillow can help you maintain a comfortable sleeping environment.

4. Versatility

Flexi pillows are often malleable, allowing you to shape them according to your needs. This versatility provides more support regardless of how you move during the night. If you experience discomfort or find a specific position awkward, you can easily adjust the pillow for better support.

5. Ideal for Allergies

Many Flexi pillows are made from hypoallergenic materials, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. They resist mold, dust mites, and other allergens, promoting a healthier sleep environment. If you have sensitivities, choosing a Flexi pillow can help mitigate any nighttime reactions.

Choosing the Right Flexi Pillow

When selecting a Flexi pillow, consider the following factors:

  • Material: Look for high-quality foam or memory foam options that offer durability and support.
  • Adjustability: Ensure the pillow has layers or zippers to allow for height adjustments.
  • Cover: A removable and washable cover is essential for easy maintenance and hygiene.

Investing in a quality pillow is as crucial as selecting a comfortable mattress. With various types of pillows available, Flexi pillows stand out due to their adjustability, support, and breathability, making them an excellent choice for individuals seeking better spinal alignment and overall sleep quality.

As chiropractors, we encourage you to assess your sleep habits and invest in a pillow that suits your needs. Remember, a good night’s sleep is foundational for your health and well-being, and finding the right pillow could be a game-changer. Sleep well, and wake up refreshed!

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Understanding Dowager’s Hump & How Chiropractic Adjustments Can Help

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Dowager's Hump

Dowager’s hump, also known as upper thoracic kyphosis, is a common postural condition characterized by an abnormal rounding of the upper back. This condition often affects older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, leading to a noticeable hump at the base of the neck. While it can be attributed to various factors, including osteoporosis, muscle weakness, and poor posture, chiropractic care offers a promising approach to improve this condition and enhance overall spinal health.

What Causes Dowager’s Hump?

Dowager’s hump is typically caused by:

  1. Osteoporosis: A decrease in bone density can weaken vertebrae and lead to compression fractures.
  2. Poor Posture: Prolonged slouching can contribute to the development of thoracic hyperkyphosis.
  3. Muscle Weakness: Weakening of the back muscles can exacerbate poor posture.

The combination of these factors can lead to discomfort, decreased mobility, and a reduced quality of life. Fortunately, research highlights how chiropractic care can effectively address the underlying issues associated with dowager’s hump.

The Role of Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore proper alignment of the spine, improve posture, and alleviate pain. A number of studies have shown the efficacy of chiropractic care in managing postural issues, including dowager’s hump.

Research Findings

  1. Improvement in Posture:
    A study published in the Journal of Musculoskeletal Pain demonstrated significant improvements in spinal posture and curvature through chiropractic adjustments. Participants receiving regular spinal manipulation showed increased thoracic extension and better postural alignment, which directly corresponds to the alleviation of symptoms associated with dowager’s hump.
  2. Pain Reduction:
    Another study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine examined the role of spinal manipulation for cervical and thoracic spine issues. Results indicated that patients reported significant reductions in pain levels after undergoing a series of chiropractic adjustments. This is particularly relevant for those suffering from discomfort associated with dowager’s hump.
  3. Enhanced Mobility:
    Research in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation explored the effects of chiropractic adjustments on mobility and functional outcomes. The findings suggested that individuals who received chiropractic care experienced improved mobility and functional capabilities, contributing to an overall better quality of life.
  4. Muscle Strengthening:
    A study in The Spine Journal examined the relationship between chiropractic adjustments and muscle strengthening. Participants who engaged in chiropractic care along with tailored exercise programs demonstrated enhanced strength in their back muscles, which is crucial for supporting proper posture and combatting the effects of dowager’s hump.

Additional Benefits of Chiropractic Care

  • Holistic Approach: Chiropractors not only focus on spinal adjustments but also advise on lifestyle modifications, exercise regimens, and ergonomic strategies to promote long-term health.
  • Patient-Centered Care: Chiropractic care is individualized, allowing practitioners to tailor treatment plans to each patient’s specific needs and conditions.
  • Non-Invasive Treatment: Chiropractors provide a non-invasive alternative to pain relief, reducing the reliance on medications and surgical interventions.

Chiropractic care presents a valuable option for individuals suffering from dowager’s hump. Through spinal adjustments, targeted exercises, and lifestyle advice, chiropractic practitioners can help improve spinal alignment, reduce pain, and enhance mobility. If you or a loved one is dealing with the discomfort of dowager’s hump, consider consulting with a licensed chiropractor to explore how adjustments can support better posture and overall health.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment plan, and remember that consistent care and attention to posture are key components in managing dowager’s hump effectively.

Recommended Actions

With the right support and care, dowager’s hump can be effectively managed and improved in most instances, leading to a more comfortable and active life! Book online today or call us on 9302 1023 to make your appointment today and eliminate the hunch!

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Understanding Head Pressure and Eye Disturbances: The Role of Chiropractic Care

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Head Pressure & Vision Changes

Head pressure and eye disturbances are common complaints that can significantly impact daily life. Whether you’re experiencing a sensation of fullness in your head, throbbing headaches, or visual disturbances such as blurriness or double vision, these symptoms can be concerning. Often, patients seek solutions through various medical channels, but one approach that might be overlooked is chiropractic care.

The Connection Between Head Pressure and Eye Issues

Head pressure often arises due to various factors such as tension headaches, sinus issues, or migraines. These conditions can exert pressure not just on the head but also on surrounding structures, including the eyes. When blood flow is restricted or nerves are irritated, patients may experience visual disturbances. Here are a few possible connections:

  1. Tension Headaches: These are commonly linked to muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. As muscle tension builds, it can pull on the cranial structures and lead to sensations of head pressure as well as eye strain.
  2. Migraines: These severe headaches are often accompanied by visual symptoms known as aura, causing disturbances such as flashing lights or zigzag patterns.
  3. Sinus Pressure: Sinus infections can lead to inflammation and swelling, creating pressure that radiates to the head and eyes, resulting in discomfort and visual symptoms.

Understanding these connections is crucial in finding relief. While medication can provide temporary relief, it often doesn’t address the underlying issues contributing to head pressure and eye disturbances.

How Chiropractors Can Help

Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the body’s structure—primarily the spine—and its function, aiming to promote the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Here are several ways chiropractors can assist with head pressure and eye disturbances:

  1. Spinal Adjustments: Misalignments in the cervical spine can contribute to tension in the neck and shoulders. By realigning the spine, chiropractors can help alleviate tension in surrounding muscles, thus reducing head pressure.
  2. Soft Tissue Therapy: Chiropractors are skilled in various soft tissue techniques that help relieve muscle tightness and tension. This can reduce pain and discomfort associated with head pressure and diminish its impact on vision.
  3. Postural Correction: Poor posture can lead to increased tension in the neck and upper back. Chiropractors often provide guidance on maintaining better posture to reduce strain on the spine and surrounding muscles, which can alleviate head pressure.
  4. Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice: Chiropractors often provide recommendations for lifestyle changes and ergonomic adjustments, such as proper workstation setup, exercises, and stretches that can help mitigate symptoms.
  5. Holistic Approach: Chiropractors view the body as a whole and often incorporate complementary therapies, such as nutritional advice or stress-reduction techniques, which can address the multifaceted nature of head pressure and eye disturbances.

Seeking Help

If you’re experiencing head pressure and eye disturbances, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause. If you suspect that your symptoms may be related to muscle tension, spinal alignment, or posture, a chiropractor may be a beneficial part of your treatment team.

Head pressure and eye disturbances can be debilitating, but they are not always a reflection of serious health issues. A chiropractor can offer valuable support through spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and lifestyle advice. By addressing the root causes of your discomfort, you can find relief and improve your quality of life. If you’re struggling with these symptoms, consider scheduling an appointment with a chiropractor for a thorough examination and personalized care plan. Your journey to relief and wellness could start with a simple visit—one that focuses on holistic health and the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

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Dealing With Burnout! Signs and Solutions

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Burnout


Dealing with burnout is important for mental and physical health. Burnout is a term used for a state of exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress!
Some signs to look out for can include:

Physical

  • Chronic fatigue and exhaustion
  • Headaches or muscle pain
  • Change in sleep habits
  • Frequent illness
    Emotional
  • Feelings of hopelessness and being overwhelmed
  • Mood swings and increased irritability
  • Feeling detached or isolated
    Behavioural
  • Reduced productivity or increased procrastination
  • Withdrawal from responsibilities and social situations
    Cognitive
  • Difficulty making decisions
  • Forgetfulness and decreased attention span
  • Negative attitude
  • Loss of motivation

If this is something you feel like you may be struggling with it is important to have conversations with people you trust or speak to your health practitioner.

Some ways to manage burnout

  1. Prioritize self-care by taking regular breaks throughout the day to recharge. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night and engage in physical activity to boost mood and energy levels.
  2. Set boundaries between work and your personal time to ensure you have downtime.
  3. Develop healthy coping mechanisms such as practicing mindfulness and engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy and find fulfilling.
  4. Connect with friends and family to share your thoughts and feelings.
  5. Take time to rest. Whether that is a well needed holiday or a short break to disconnect and recharge.
  6. Consider professional help from a therapist or a counsellor to work through your feelings and help develop coping mechanisms.
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Neck Humps & Chiropractic Care

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Dowager's Hump

Ever heard of a neck hump or are you someone that is currently from this postural change? Well thankfully our team of chiropractors are able to assist you with improving this hump using various treatments and techniques listed within this blog including ways to prevent the “neck hump” from occurring!

What Is The Neck Hump?

The neck hump also known as dowager’s hump is a condition that causes rounding of the cervico-thoracic junction. This can be seen in people from all walk of life including teenagers although can be seen more in females due to osteoporosis.

How Can I Prevent The Hump?

Prevention is always key and hence why maintaining correct posture when sitting, lifting and working will eliminate day to day stress which may implicate the area causing pain. Bit by bit stress in joints deteriorates the region causing both limitations in movement and of course symptomatic pain.

How Can A Neck Hump Be Corrected?

Correction is not always simple as both degeneration and compression are determine factors of improvement over time. Usually exercises can help strengthen the muscles in the area but that alone will not have an affect on the joint structure. Techniques such as the use of a dennerol can help improve the cervical curve of the neck but a routine must be formed daily to help correct it.

How Can Chiropractors Help?

Chiropractors aim to correct joint dysfunction hence why dowager’s hump is seen throughout our clinics in those with postural changes. Our chiropractors use adjustments and low force techniques including high and low impact stretching to lengthen and decompress the joints affected by the hump.

If you are someone looking to change your neck hump our team of chiropractors are here to help you out! Call on 9302 1023 or book online today to get your posture checked!

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Pregnancy Chiropractors 

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Pregnancy Chiropractor

What is the difference of a general chiropractor vs a pregnancy chiropractor? What makes them special, what more do they offer and how do they help with aches and pains differently?

What Is The Difference Of A Pregnancy Chiropractor?

Pregnancy chiropractors have specialised in certain techniques, adjustments and exercises to help alleviate a pregnancy patients aches and pains. Unlike a general chiropractor, a pregnancy chiropractor will use alternative methods to move joints, decrease muscle tension and stretch areas of concern without harming the baby.

What More Do Pregnancy Chiropractors Offer?

Pregnancy chiropractors aim to make changes to not only the body but prepare the body for birth. They can also make changes to the amount of pain and pressure felt in the pelvis especially in 3rd trimester. Pregnancy chiropractors also have the ability to eliminate common causes of pregnancy pain such as pelvic pain, back pain, headaches and round ligament pain.

When Should You See A Pregnancy Chiropractor?

The best time to see a pregnancy chiropractor is as soon as possible. Once the pain starts it will make the process a longer one and harder to eliminate. As your body grows during pregnancy the extra pressure in the abdomen and the changes to posture will make it just that little bit harder every week until action is taken. Getting a check up even without pain during pregnancy is a great way to minimize pains in the long run and prepare the body for an easy 40 week journey of pregnancy!

If you are looking for a pregnancy chiropractor in Melbourne our team of both male and female pregnancy specialists are available to help you on your journey! For more information about pregnancy care or what to expect on your first visit look into our website or call on 9302 1023 for more information. Bookings can also be made online with the represented pregnancy chiropractors across our clinic.

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Screen Time Affecting Your Health?

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How Bad Is Your Screen Time?

Are you someone that spends majority of their time on the phone or in front of a TV? 

Are you noticing your posture is being affected from the hours you spend engaging in screen time?

Are you feeling aches and pains, or maybe even a slight headache?

Then this blog is for you!

In this blog will be discussing why and how screen time affects your posture and ways in which you can improve or even reverse the changes you have made!

What Does Screen Time Mean?

Screen time is any type of device that causes you to sit, watch or use for long periods of time. The obvious ones include a TV or phone but can also be things such as notebooks or gaming consoles.

How Does Screen Time Affect Me?

Screen time affects the body by putting pressure in the spine in uncomfortable positions. In doing so this can lead to postural changes long term, aches and pains or even stress.

How Can I Limit My Screen Time?

The easiest way to limit screen time would be to set an alarm. Usually after every hour it is recommended you take a 5 minute break to stretch and move around.

What If It Is To Late?

If you are someone that knows they have taken their screen time to far it is still possible to revert the changes that have been made. This can be in forms of taking a break from screen time, implementing stretches and exercises throughout daily life or visiting a chiropractor.

How Can A Chiropractor Help?

A Chiropractor can’t help you stop screen timing. Although a good chiropractor is able to help reduce tension, tightness, overall pain and recommend some simple stretches that may be of benefit with long term use.

If you are someone that is struggling with the “screen time aches” then our chiropractors are more than happy to help. We have both male and female practitioners available including remedial massage therapists. 

Book Online or Call 9302 1023 to schedule your first appointment today!

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All About Torticollis Syndrome

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Neck Pain

What is Torticollis?

Torticollis also known as a “Wry Neck” is a debilitating neck injury that can last up to several months depending on its severity.

How Does Torticollis Occur?

– Incorrect Posture

– Bad Pillow

– Bad Sleeping Position

– Strenuous Activity

– Incorrect Lifting

Symptoms Of Torticollis!

– Neck Pain

– Headaches

– Jaw Pain

– Cramping

– Loss Of Neck Motion

Things To Avoid When You Have Torticollis!

– Exercise

– Strenuous Activity 

– Desk Work

– Seated Activity

How To Fix Torticollis?

– See A Chiropractor

– Mobility/Stretching (if possible)

How Can A Chiropractor Help?

Chiropractors use techniques to adjust the spinal joint that is stuck and inflamed. This is the usual cause of Torticollis and in turn muscles tense up to protect the joint that is in strife.

If you are someone that is suffering from Torticollis our team of chiropractors at The Melbourne Chiropractor are able to help with your debilitating neck pain! We use various methods to help free up the muscles and reduce the tension of the joint!

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Can You Prevent Headaches?

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Headache Prevention

Headaches… Are they preventable?

In short, YES! In this blog we will explain what can cause a headache and ways in which you can help stop these ongoing headaches from occurring!

What Causes Headaches?

Headaches can be caused by emotional and physical work or just the standard response which we get allot from patients which is dehydration! 

Some of the most common causes include:

– Poor Posture

– Bad Sleeping Arrangement (Pillow)

– Long Periods Of Looking Up

– Working In Enclosed Spaces

– Strenuous Activities

– Dehydration

What Can Improve Headaches When They Occur?

– Rehydrate

– Neck Stretches

– Sleep

– Massage 

– Chiropractic Care

How Can I Stop Headaches From Occurring?

Easiest way to stop headaches is to find out how and when they will begin. Sometimes there is a common trigger. Maybe you woke up with a headache? Maybe you didn’t drink anything today or maybe you twisted suddenly and strained your neck! All reasons that should be looked into and can cause headaches!

If you are currently suffering from headaches and it has become to far gone to diminish its symptoms our team of chiropractors can help! Not all headaches are preventable from the above due to other types of headaches caused by other factors such as sinusitis, vestibular headaches or even aura like migraines. To book an appointment call us on 9302 1023 or book online today to get yourself assessed and find the correct plan to suit your needs!

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5 Benefits Of Remedial Massage

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Massage Benefits

Remedial Massage is a technique that is used by trained professionals. A degree must be obtained prior to being able to provide such a service and professionals who engage in this type of work are closely monitored like any other allied health professional.

The main focus of Remedial Massage is to decrease the tightness of muscles and stop the body from cramping. 

In this blog we will be listing 5 benefits obtained by getting worked on by a remedial massage therapist and how they can work in together with Chiropractors!

Why should you see a Remedial Massage Therapist?

As we discussed above decreasing tension throughout the musculoskeletal system has so many benefits that go further than just feeling loose. Remedial Massage therapy also helps to relax the body whilst being an easily accessible service that can cater for all walks of life, including during pregnancy!

5 Benefits Of Remedial Massage

– Decreases Stress and Anxiety

– Reduces headaches and neck Tension

– Reduces low back pain and sciatica

– Increases Athletic Performance and Increases Mental Focus

– Reduces Fluid Retention

How Can Our Team Of Remedial Therapists & Chiros Work Together?

A Chiropractors main goal is to work of the bodies structure. By making changes to the underlying issue it can be quite strenuous on the surrounding musculature. Even though Chiropractors can worl on the muscles and stretch out areas of concern they are unable to spend more than 30 minutes of their time working on tight and tender muscles!

This is where Remedial Massage Therapists come in to play as it is essential to further loosen where the chiropractor has just adjusted including the surrounding muscles to help alleviate and sooth anything that may still be strained in the region. It is common to have both joint and muscular imbalances throughout the skeletal systeam hence why it may be beneficial to have a dedicated team that can offer both services!

*If you are someone that id currently suffering from aches and pains, headaches or migraines, be sure to give our clinics a call on 9302 1023 or visit any of our locations in Broadmeadows, Westmeadows or Fawkner. Alternatively you can book now and we can get you back on track as soon as possible!

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