Peterson Chiropractic

How to Have a Pain-Free Commute

Check out Dr. Peterson's advice on "how to have a pain-free commute" on Metro.

Lifting Tips: Preventing Injury When You Handle Heavy Objects

Lifting a chair or table may seem like an easy enough task, but when handled without care, it can result in a painful back injury. To make sure that you do not inadvertently hurt yourself when you pick up and carry large or heavy items, consider these lifting suggestions:

Secure a Firm Grip

Before you lift any object, assess its weight and dimensions. Is it too big to get your arms around? Will you be able to hold onto it for as long as needed? If you cannot grip it properly, you may strain your back once it begins to slip out of your grasp.

Clear All Walkways

Securing your intended path is just as important as getting a safe hold on your object. Do a quick walkthrough to clear your lane of all obstacles that may cause you to trip or fall. Also, gauge the floor itself. Could you possibly slip on it? Freshly waxed floors and loose rugs may present precarious circumstances when carrying a heavy object.

Use Deliberate and Steady Motion

Once you have taken the proper precautions to avoid accidental slips and falls, it’s time to lift your object. When you do, refrain from employing quick or jerky movements. These actions can overextend your back muscles and cause them to strain. Instead, take hold of your item with slow and careful lifting.

Ask for Help When Needed

No object is worth risking your wellbeing. Some heavy objects can be lifted without injury, but if you suspect that you may hurt yourself, don’t ignore your initial assessment. Ask a friend or coworker to help you carry your item or wait until later when someone is available to lighten your load.

Have you suffered a back injury from heavy lifting? If so, Peterson Chiropractic can ease your pain. Our Manhattan facility offers both chiropractic care and massage therapy to manage and eliminate back pain problems. Call us at (646) 291-2681 to make an appointment with an NYC chiropractor.

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Getting to Work Shouldn't Hurt

NYC-based, board-certified chiropractor shares tips for a pain-free commute

Getting to work shouldn’t hurt, but here in New York City where millions of people commute to their office each day, it usually does. Although there is nothing quite like the excitement of “making it” in NYC, workers across the country know too well the pain of the commute.

Fortunately, board-certified, NYC-based chiropractor Dr. Louis Peterson says there are some easy ways to eliminate commuter bad habits that often lead to back, shoulder, and neck pain. Following his advice could literally save your neck.

“We’ve all been there – commuting in the city is a necessary evil – but just about every day I see people making major mistakes that lead to significant pain,” says Dr. Peterson, himself a daily subway rider. “The worst offenders are people who read on the train or bus, those who grip the bar or strap above their head with one hand leaving the other side of their body pulled toward the floor under the weight of heavy bags, and of course, women who wear high, unstable heels.”

According to Dr. Peterson, the most notorious signs that your commute is taking more than its toll on your body is concentrated pain in the neck, shoulders and upper back. Fortunately, he says, eliminating the pain from your commute is easy with just a few small changes.

Ride, don’t read. “Reading on the subway might seem like a great way to pass the time, but more often than not, I see readers hunched over in a position that is most definitely going to cause pain.” Dr. Peterson explains.

The Doctor’s Advice: If you just can’t put that book down, practice proper reading posture. “Only read if you are lucky enough to have a seat. I’ve seen so many injuries that resulted after someone fell because they didn’t realize the bus was stopping short. Hold the book in two hands and instead of craning your neck to gaze down at it, lift it up with your arms to bring it into your line of vision.” And pay attention to the stops!

Choose your bag carefully. The second issue arises when commuters burden themselves with a load that is simply too heavy. “The amount of gear people travel with every day very quickly adds up to 20, 30 or more pounds and when you need to grip the bar with one hand and keep hold of a bag carrying upwards of 20 pounds of computers, books, gym clothes, lunch and more that uneven distribution can lead to serious pain issues.”

The Doctor’s Advice: Dr. Peterson says invest in a backpack, which will distribute the weight evenly to prevent pain and injuries.  

Those boots definitely were not made for walking. Or standing. It’s true what they say: sometimes, fashion hurts. But, warns Dr. Peterson, don’t let your shoe wardrobe actually hurt you. “Between running to catch a bus, waiting on a crowded subway platform, or racing to grab a cab in the chilly rain, commuting can seem like a full-contact sport,” explains Dr. Peterson. “Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes for that commute is probably the simplest way to save yourself from the pain commonly associated with commuting. Stow your heels in your desk and opt for something a little more sensible for the commute. Not only will you save your back, but most likely, you’ll save many favorite pairs of shoes.”

Dr. Peterson understands that even commuters with the best intentions fall victim to their commute sometimes. When that happens, it’s time to call a chiropractor.

Dr. Louis Peterson is a board-certified chiropractor with two offices in New York City.

Dr. Peterson Commuting

Dr. Peterson gives tips on how to make your daily commute easier on your back.

Added Benefits of Massage Beyond Pain Relief

Many people know that massage therapy alleviates back pain problems, but fewer are aware of its other advantages. Though massage feels good, its effects resonate far beyond pleasant sensations. Whether or not you suffer from back pain, you may want to consider regular massage therapy sessions for these important reasons:  

Alleviate Anxiety and Stress

When you undergo massage therapy, your body releases increased levels of dopamine and serotonin, hormones that stimulate a sense of happiness and wellbeing. At the same time, getting a massage suppresses your body’s production of cortisol, a substance associated with high stress levels. If your personal or professional responsibilities are causing anxiety or stress in your life, consider making an appointment for a massage.

Bolster Your Immune System

Cortisol doesn’t just indicate the presence of stress—it may also signify a weakened immune system. Heightened cortisol levels can destroy the body’s natural defenses against infection and illness, which leaves a person vulnerable to illness. Because massage therapy reduces the amount of cortisol in the body, it can also strengthen your immune system.

Increase Mental Awareness

Most people associate massage therapy with relaxation and inactivity. However, studies have shown that massage can boost your brainpower. If you feel like you cannot focus on your work or shake feelings of grogginess, try massage therapy to clear and sharpen your mind.

Reduce Premenstrual Symptoms

A woman’s oncoming menstrual cycle can elicit a range of unwanted side effects, including moodiness, fatigue, and water retention. However, massage therapy can effectively attend to these problems and diminish their intensity. Should you suffer from debilitating premenstrual symptoms, massage therapy may be the remedy you need.

Peterson Chiropractic offers diverse massage therapy options that can cater to your individual health needs. To schedule an appointment for a deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, or other massage service, call our New York City facility at (646) 291-2681.