Occasional inflammation is a normal and healthy part of your body’s healing process. However, when it becomes a chronic occurrence, inflammation can do more harm than good.

Keep reading to learn more about the role of inflammation in the healing process, how to know when it has crossed the line from helpful to hurtful, and how chiropractic care and cryotherapy can help you find relief.

Your Body’s Healing Mechanism

Inflammation is the body’s naturally occurring response to tissue damage, whether due to illness, injury, or invaders like germs or toxins. When tissue damage occurs, the immune system sends out inflammatory cells, which work to trap germs or toxins and heal injured tissue.

Symptoms may include swelling, heat, localized pain and tenderness, and flushed skin. For example, an infection like strep can cause inflammation in the throat, while a sprained ankle can cause redness and swelling.

While occasional inflammation is normal, it’s not always comfortable. However, these mild symptoms aren’t a reason to worry — they indicate that the body is beginning to heal and shouldn’t persist for longer than a few days.

Acute inflammation doesn’t always require treatment. If needed, treatment may include getting plenty of rest, icing the affected area, practicing proper wound care, and taking over-the-counter NSAID medications.

How Much is Too Much?

Inflammation becomes a problem when it’s chronic, causing the body to send inflammatory cells even when there’s no danger. Causes include:

Chronic stress
Obesity or low levels of physical activity
An unbalanced gut microbiome
Eating certain foods, such as those high in salt or trans fat, fried foods, or refined carbohydrates
Sleep disruptions
Tobacco use and alcohol overindulgence
Exposure to environmental toxins such as air pollution and hazardous waste

Chronic inflammation is also associated with many health conditions, including autoimmune, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases, along with certain types of cancer and mental health conditions.

The symptoms of chronic inflammation are typically more difficult to pinpoint. It can cause belly and chest pain, insomnia, fatigue, joint stiffness, mouth sores, fever, skin rashes, mood disorders, GI issues, weight fluctuations, and frequent infections. These symptoms may come and go, lasting for months or even years.

Finding Relief from Chronic Inflammation

If you have a minor injury that won’t heal or ongoing pain or stiffness in any part of your body, it’s a good indication that you may have chronic inflammation. There are plenty of treatment options out there, from taking supplements like zinc and omega-3 to corticosteroid injections to anti-inflammatory diets.

However, when it comes to supporting the body’s natural healing processes and ensuring proper overall function, there are two treatments you may not have considered: chiropractic care and cryotherapy. These two treatments, whether in combination or by themselves, can be important components of treatment and help you find long-lasting relief.

The Role of Chiropractic Care

The goal of chiropractic care is to correct misalignments in the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. By ensuring proper alignment and reducing nervous system interference, chiropractic care promotes proper nerve function, allowing effective communication throughout the body and alleviating inflammation.

Many chiropractors also utilize massage therapy, which can reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and further enhance the healing processes, which can help you find relief from chronic inflammation. Additionally, chiropractors often give lifestyle guidance, provide nutritional support, and present preventative strategies for managing inflammation, contributing to all-around wellness.

The Role of Cryotherapy

You’ve probably held an ice pack to a bruised shin or a sprained wrist to calm the inflamed area. In fact, cold therapy has been used for thousands of years to speed up recovery and enhance healing.

Whole-body cryotherapy takes this principle to the next level and involves using liquid nitrogen to cool the air within a chamber to -200 degrees Fahrenheit, where it quickly cools the skin. While this may seem unpleasant, it’s actually much more comfortable than cold water immersion, as the air is dry. Plus, it only takes between 2.5 and 3.5 minutes — much better than sitting in an ice bath for 15 minutes.

The benefits of cryotherapy go beyond calming inflammation. It can also increase energy levels, boost the immune system, speed up recovery after exercise, and improve metabolism.

Whole-Body Health and Wellness

At the Health and Wellness Clinic, we are dedicated to improving your quality of life and helping you live without pain or discomfort. Whether you’re battling an inflammatory condition, recovering from an injury, or looking to improve your athletic performance, contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward improving your overall health.

Ice or Heat: Which is Better for Pain Relief?

If you’re struggling with pain — whether it’s due to an injury, an inflammatory condition like arthritis, or sore muscles after a hard workout — you have many options for relief. From over-the-counter medications and topical creams to ice packs and heating pads, there’s an endless list of things you can use to soothe pain and discomfort.

When it comes to temperature-based therapy, both ice and heat can be effective; however, it can be difficult to determine which should be used when. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of these therapies, situations in which each is ideal, and the advantages of cryotherapy.

Understanding Pain and Inflammation

Before we get into pain relief, let’s discuss what pain and inflammation are and why they occur. Inflammation is your body’s normal response to injury or invader (such as bacteria, viruses, or toxic chemicals). When you get injured or sick, your immune system sends inflammatory cells to trap toxins or germs and begin to heal injured tissue.

Normal, acute inflammation can cause swelling and pain, but it should be relatively mild and short-term. Chronic inflammation, on the other hand, can continue for months or years. It occurs when the body sends inflammatory cells even when there’s no danger, damaging tissues instead of healing them.

Inflammation doesn’t always require treatment, but if it’s severe or chronic, there are plenty of ways to find relief.

The Benefits of Ice for Pain Relief

Ice is an excellent tool for pain relief. It works by constricting blood vessels in a process called vasodilation, inhibiting the body’s ability to send inflammatory cells to the area. In addition to decreasing swelling, it can also relieve pain by numbing aggravated nerves.

Applying ice to the affected area is ideal in the first few days after an injury occurs. It’s especially effective for sprains, strains, and bruises, as well as preventing soreness after a workout.

Don’t overdo it, though; icing for extended periods of time can cause reactive vasodilation, which is when the body switches gears and dilates the blood vessels to make sure the tissues get adequate blood supply — the opposite of what you want. To avoid this, only ice for 15 to 20 minutes, then wait 30 to 40 minutes before reapplying.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is an advanced form of cold treatment that can target larger areas and provide deeper pain relief. It involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures — 200 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit below zero — for a short amount of time.

Like applying an ice back to an injury, cryotherapy causes vasoconstriction, which reduces blood flow to the extremities and numbs nerve endings. After a whole-body cryotherapy session, the blood vessels open up, delivering a surge of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body and promoting greater healing.

To learn more about this innovative treatment, check out these previous blog posts: “How Does Whole-Body Cryotherapy Work?” and “5 Benefits Of Cold Water Immersion And Cryotherapy.”

The Benefits of Heat for Pain Relief

While ice constricts blood vessels, hot temperatures open them up. If you’re not careful, applying heat can actually stimulate inflammation rather than reduce it, which makes it unsuitable for acute injuries. However, in the right situations, such as chronic conditions, heat therapy can relax muscles and alleviate stiffness.

Heat is effective for chronic pain, including muscle tightness and arthritis. It can also help heal injuries after the initial inflammation resolves, easing lingering stiffness. Heating pads, infrared saunas, and warm baths and showers are all common methods of heat therapy.

Choosing the Right Treatment

As you consider which temperature-based therapy is right for you, ensure you take into account the type of injury or pain and whether it’s acute or chronic. Determine what stage of recovery you’re in — is it immediately post-injury, or are you seeking ongoing pain management? Finally, consider your personal tolerance to hot and cold temperatures and whether they’ll cause more discomfort than they relieve. Whichever therapy you choose, make sure you use it in moderation. Excessive use of heat or cold can cause burns.

Whole-Body Cryotherapy in Layton, Utah

At the Health and Wellness Clinic, chiropractic care isn’t our only specialty. We’re proud to offer whole-body cryotherapy as well, whether as a complement to chiropractic care or on its own. This innovative therapy has helped countless patients find relief from all kinds of pain and inflammation.

If you’re ready to embrace the transformative power of cryotherapy, contact us today to schedule an appointment. With our holistic approach to pain relief, you can live a healthier, more comfortable life.

Summertime provides plenty of opportunities to travel. Whether it’s a family reunion, a road trip across the country, or a long flight to far-off lands, summer is the perfect time to leave behind the stress of everyday life and broaden your horizons.

However, while these adventures are exciting, they can also be hard on your body. Irregular schedules, disrupted routines, and long hours spent sitting can lead to pain and discomfort. At the Health and Wellness clinic, we understand the importance of maintaining your physical well-being, even when you’re on the go. As you embark on your summer travels, remember these expert tips to help you keep your body in peak condition.

Pre-Travel Preparation

Before you begin your journey, it’s essential to prepare your body. It’s a good idea to schedule a visit with your chiropractor for an adjustment to ensure your spine is aligned and your muscles are relaxed. This pre-travel tune-up can set you up for success by alleviating tension and reducing the risk of physical discomfort during your trip.

Plane Travel Tips

If you’re traveling by plane, take these steps to enjoy a more comfortable flight:

Choose the Right Seat

When booking your flight, choose an aisle seat if possible. These seats allow for more legroom and make it easier to move around during the flight, which are crucial factors for preventing stiffness.

Stay Hydrated

The air inside the plane cabin is generally dry, which can lead to dehydration, which can cause fatigue and muscle cramps. Make sure you drink plenty of water both before and during your flight to stay hydrated. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can exacerbate dehydration.

Move Around

Sitting in your seat for prolonged periods can lead to poor circulation and muscle stiffness. Take advantage of any opportunities to stand up and walk around the cabin. If possible, aim to stretch your legs every hour or so. If walking around isn’t an option, do some simple seated exercises, such as foot pumps, ankle circles, and shoulder rolls.

Support Your Back

It’s no secret that airplane seats are designed without regard to proper ergonomics. To make your journey as comfortable as possible, use a small pillow or rolled-up blanket to support your lower back and help maintain the natural curvature of your spine.

Road Trip Tips

Road trips can be notoriously hard on your body. Take care of yourself by following these simple tips:

Plan Regular Breaks

As you plan your road trip, allow for regular breaks every hour or two, especially if you’re the one driving. Use these breaks to stretch, walk around, and give your body a chance to reset. Simple stretches such as touching your toes, rolling your shoulders, and twisting your torso can make a big difference.

Adjust Your Seat

Adjust your seat to properly support your back. Your seat should allow your knees to be slightly lower than your hips. If necessary, use a lumbar support cushion to maintain proper spinal alignment.

Stay Hydrated and Snack Wisely

Just like on an airplane, staying hydrated during road travel is crucial. Bring plenty of water and healthy snacks to keep your energy levels stable. Avoid high-fat or sugary foods, as these can make you feel sluggish and contribute to muscle stiffness.

Engage Your Core

On long journeys, periodically engage your core muscles by sitting up straight and tightening your abdominal muscles. This practice helps support your spine and can reduce lower back discomfort.

General Travel Tips

No matter your method of travel, keep these tips in mind:

Pack Light

Avoid the strain of heavy luggage on your back and shoulders by packing only what you need and using suitcases with wheels rather than duffle bags. Use your leg muscles, rather than your back muscles, to lift your bags.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Comfortable, supportive shoes are the foundation of proper musculoskeletal alignment and go a long way in preventing foot, leg, and back pain. Avoid high heels or flip-flops, as they offer very little support.

Maintain Good Posture

Whether you’re traveling or not, it’s crucial to be mindful of your posture. Avoid slouching, and sit up straight with your shoulders back to prevent neck and back pain.

Give Your Body the Care it Deserves

As you make your travel preparations, don’t forget to schedule your appointment with us! Whether you need a pre-vacation tune-up or a post-trip adjustment, our expert chiropractors at the Health and Wellness Clinic can help you keep your body in top shape this summer.

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Your Body’s Healing Mechanism

How Much is Too Much?