Ki Chiropractic & Massage

What happens when we're sedentary?

2012-01-26T09:29:00.000-08:00

A recent study,* as reported by Dr. Malik Slosberg, "thoroughly describes what is termed 'Inactivity Physiology.' In our progressively sedentary culture, there has been a rapid reduction in demand for energy expenditure as we sit more in more driving in cars, sitting all day at work, sitting watching TV, sitting playing video games, sitting while reading, and sitting while relaxing.

"Sitting has an extremely low demand for energy expenditure, because as this paper explains, there is virtually no muscle contraction of any major trunk or lower extremity muscles. With this reduction in energy demand for approximately 70-80% of our waking day, muscle fibers do no use their stored glycogen and resist the inflow of additional glucose which can be toxic to cells in excess amounts. Thus, insulin resistance develops along with elevated blood sugar (hyperglycemia) which is then converted to fat, raising serum trigylceride levels and increased size and number of fat cells.

"The insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension (known as the Metabolic Syndrome) contribute to the diseases associated with the corresponding increase in obesity. These metabolic derangements along with increasing waist girth leaves individuals at dramatically increased risk of cardiovascular disease, cardiac death, type II diabetes, and all-cause mortality."

Moral of the story? Get up!

*Wittink H, et al. The Dangers of Inactivity; Exercise and Inactivity Physiology for the manual therapist. Manual Therapy 2011; 16:209-216.

Latest Laser Therapy Research

2012-01-21T12:43:00.000-08:00

Three new studies show the effectiveness of laser therapy for various health problems:

Laser heals inner ear damage-There is an increasing use of laser for the treatment of many hearing disorders, especially ringing in the ears (tinnitus). The most recent study (Lasers Med. Sci. 2011 Dec 4) shows a positive effect on the recovery of cochlear hair cells.
Laser and brain damage-MRI analysis of of rats with traumatic brain injury showed significantly smaller brain damage in laser-treated mice as compared to controls (J Neurotrauma. 2011 Oct 31).
Laser heals herpes lesions-Two studies showed an obvious effect of laser therapy for both initial healing and for the length of the recurrence periods (Photomed Laser Surg. 2011 Nov 2).

Groupon Daily Deal Coming Soon!

2012-01-20T13:15:00.000-08:00

Alert your friends! We are participating in a Groupon Daily Deal for a $29 massage and pain evaluation (valued at $164). When the deal shows up, there is a choice of four offices, two in Seattle. Please ask your friends to select Ki Chiropractic & Massage. The daily deal will run for 72 hours, beginning Monday, January 23. Please help us spread the word. Thanks!

Chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents

2012-01-17T08:32:00.000-08:00

The National Library of Science released another extensive paper, "Xanthones from Mangosteen Extracts as Natural Chemopreventive Agents: Potential Anti-Cancer Drugs," in December, 2011. This provides just one of about 202 reasons why I continue to drink at least three ounces of whole fruit puree mangosteen juice every day (and there's only one, XanGo, that fits that description). If you're interested in optimum health, do your own research by going to pubmed.gov and searching on "xanthones."

Thanks for attending

2012-01-08T07:03:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all who attended our "5 Secrets to Weight Loss" workshop yesterday. Next workshop--Saturday, February 4. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a lot easier when you know about some common pitfalls, misconceptions, and most importantly, what works.

About two years ago I lost 35#, but was stuck on the remaining 10 and was constantly struggling with gaining back the lost weight. But when I learned about how important cleansing was to weight management--because fat accumulates around stored toxins--I started looking around for a good cleansing program (there are lots of options!). I try to avoid obvious sources of toxins (such as in food, water, air, and personal care and cleaning products), but since we're exposed to 82,500 different toxins in a week, it's safe to assume at least some are getting through!

There are lots of options for cleansing. The one I chose comes with a complete program for cleansing, fat burning, and muscle building, along with meal and exercise planning. I'm happy to report that during the 25-day cleanse:

I lost 2 inches from my waist, bringing my waist-to-hip ratio to 0.75
I went from 33.5% body fat to 28.5
My weight dropped from 152.2 to 148.4

All while not feeling hungry, not starving myself, and having plenty of energy. Best of all, my legs feel super light and springy when I'm running! Wish me luck as I continue on toward my goal of a healthy 22-25% body fat!

Just one spot left

2012-01-08T06:59:00.000-08:00

For a massage on Monday, Jan. 9, at our introductory price of $25.

5 Secrets to Weight Loss Workshop

2012-01-05T11:01:00.000-08:00

Resolved to make 2012 the year of living more healthfully? Join us this Saturday, January 7, 12:00-1:00 p.m., for our free, monthly Cleansing/Weight Loss Workshop.

You will learn five secrets to weight loss, and learn about a revolutionary, effective, and sane new program for resetting your lifestyle habits.

Light refreshments will be served, so contact us to register yourself and a friend* today!

*Best results occur if you bring an accountability partner.

Welcome Our New Massage Therapist

2012-01-05T07:05:00.000-08:00

And receive an introductory one-hour Swedish massage for just $25! Toni James has joined our growing family of practioners, and is eager to help you ease into the New Year with a relaxing Swedish massage. Or, if you prefer, she also does Deep Tissue, Myofascial, and Neuromuscular therapies. Whichever you choose, you will love her intuitive, relaxing work.

Toni is currently available on Mondays, from 2:00-9:00 pm. Contact us right away to take advantage of this New Year's opportunity!

What's your "current location"?

2012-01-02T05:21:00.000-08:00

Several years ago I read that Ted Turner's response to the question, "How do you stay so healthy?" was, "I just try to do 1% better each year."

Unless you're in the middle of a health crisis (in which case you need to take drastic action), you can take advantage of the wisdom of incremental change. A transformational question for the second day of 2012 might be, "How can I be 1% healthier this year?" What modest change can I make that will move me closer to optimal health?

Whether you're refining your already exemplary health habits or taking drastic action, it's useful to know your "current location." Whenever I use my phone to get driving directions to an unfamiliar place, it asks me whether I want to use my "current location." Here's a simple test you can do today to determine your current location. It's extremely low-tech, easy, and quick. All you need is a tape measure and a calculator. With two simple measurements and one calculation, you will know your odds of developing a life-threatening condition (cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease).

Ready? First, measure your waist (around your belly button), then measure your hips (widest part). Now get a calculator and divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. The ideal ratio for women is 0.70 and for men it's 0.90. Greater than 0.75 or 9.95 indicates a significantly higher likelihood of developing one of the above problems.

Now that you know your current location, you can decide whether you're going to make an incremental change or take massive action.

P.S.: Research shows, for best results, make sure you choose something you enjoy.

P.P.S: If you want help with rest of the road map, let us know. We'll make sure you're having fun while you're on your journey.

Free toxic chemical test, and more...

2012-01-01T06:12:00.000-08:00

This week only we are offering a complimentary screening to help you reach your 2012 health and fitness goals.

The screening includes the following:

Stress/Cleansing/Weight Loss Survey
Urine test for toxic chemicals
Fitness test
Blood pressure check
Weight
Waist to hip ratio

Make your dreams for a healthier you in 2012 a reality by contacting us today!

How to save $900,000

2011-12-30T10:10:00.001-08:00

Numerous recent studies show that maintenance and wellness chiropractic care saves patients, employers, and insurers lots of money. Get your own personal savings in our office, and increase your odds for a long, healthy, and happy life.

My wish for you for the New Year!

Design and Build Your Own $39 Treadmill Desk

2011-12-22T11:58:00.000-08:00

For several years I've been singing the praises of getting up out of your chair when working at a computer. Recent research shows (see previous posting) that morbidity and mortality greatly increase with sitting more than four hours per day, even with a good exercise routine.

What to do?

Get a treadmill and build yourself a simple desk over it, so that you can walk while you're at your computer. There are $5,000 systems on the market, but here's a way to do it for just $39.

In-Office Alexander Technique Class

2011-10-13T11:46:00.000-07:00

In 1973 I began my explorations into the realm of mind-body awareness with a class at the University of Minnesota in the Alexander Technique. It became the basis for everything I learned after that. I highly recommend study of Alexander's discoveries to anyone who would like to learn how to live with more grace in all activities, whether that's singing a song or typing at the computer.

Practice member and long-time teacher of the Alexander Technique, Stacy Gehman, is offering a 4-week session of classes in our office.

The classes will be on 4 Mondays, 7 PM - 8:30 PM, Oct. 17 - Nov. 7, 2011
Tuition: $75.

For details and to register for the classes, contact Stacy at StacyG@drizzle.com

Your Body Becomes More Self-Correcting

2011-10-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

One of the promises of Network Care is that over time your ability to self-correct, spontaneously, becomes more and more refined. I see this happening over and over with practice members. One such practice member recently shared this testimonial. "When I first started seeing Dr. Connie I would get neck aches that would last for a few days at times. Through her care, I get fewer aches and when I do I normally just have to go home and stretch and they go away!"

Photo of the Day!

2011-10-03T09:42:00.000-07:00

Swimming in September? A rare treat. Swimming on September 29? Never before. But the weather was balmy and I couldn't resist one last dip into Lake Washington. The water was crystal clear, the sun was warm(ish), and the water was about how it had been all summer long, in other words pretty cold! John was reading a book at a picnic table in the shade, in case I had heart attack. A Seattle Times staff photographer got down on his belly on the shoreline to get the shot.

SSRIs & NSAIDs cancel each other out

2011-09-16T11:42:00.001-07:00

Dr. Shawn Talbott's latest e-newsletter warrants a full quote:

"Back in April, I wrote on my blog about a new study in the highly-respected scientific journal, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) that showed how common painkillers such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can interfere with the effects of antidepressant medications called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, and many others.

"I've received so many followup questions about the links between stress (and depression) and inflammation (and pain), that I thought I would update that original blog article and send the update out to the TALBOTT TIMES Newsletter.

"You can read the abstract of the PNAS study here =http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2011/04/20/1104836108.abstract

"The new research showed that the anti-depression benefits of SSRI drugs were "cancelled out" when taken along with painkillers (called NSAIDs for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). NSAIDs cancel out SSRIs - sounds like a lot of alphabet soup - but millions and millions of people take BOTH types of drugs everyday - so this is important research.

"We've known for a long time that depression and chronic pain are closely related in many ways. Both conditions share some of the same underlying biochemistry (related to stress hormones such as cortisol and inflammatory compounds such as cytokines) and people with depression tend to experience more episodes of chronic pain (and vice versa). Indeed, physical pain can undoubtedly make psychological pain (depression) worse - likely due to the finding that inflammation is known to worsen and perhaps evencause depression in many people. You might find it interesting to know that cytokines (inflammatory hormone-like chemicals produced in the body)

"Conventional wisdom would suggest that controlling depression might also help to control pain - and that reducing pain would help to alleviate depression. However, the research findings in the PNAS article suggest that painkiller drugs may actually interfere with the activity of antidepressant drugs - potentially making depression worse.

"I have written about the numerous problems with antidepressant drugs HEREand HERE as well as the problems associated with painkillers HERE - and now we have new evidence of further problems when they are used together.

"I also cover the links between inflammation and stress in some detail (full chapters on each) in my upcoming book, The Secret of Vigor - How to Overcome Burnout, Restore Metabolic Balance, and Reclaim Your Natural Energy - which will be released on 11/11/11. You can pre-order a copy from Amazon.com here."

Get Up!

2011-08-15T16:06:00.001-07:00

A new study from the American Cancer Society shows that your risk of death is dependent on number of hours spent sitting, not just overall activity or inactivity, particularly for women.

Women who reported more than six hours per day of sitting were 37% more likely to die during the study period than those who sat fewer than three hours a day.
Men who sat more than six hours daily were 18% more likely to die than those who sat fewer than three hours per day.

When combined with lack of physical activity, the association was even stronger. Women and men who both sat more and were less physically active were 94% and 48% more likely, respectively, to die compared with those who reported sitting the least and being most active.

Source: "Leisure Time Spent Sitting in Relation to Total lMortality in a Prospective Cohort of US Adults." Alpa V Patel, Leslie Bernstein, Anusila Deka, Heather Spencer Feigelson, Peter T Campbell, Susan M Gapstur, Grahm A Colditz, and Michael J Thun. Am J Epid Published online July 22, 2010 9DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwq155) as quoted in the August, 2011, issue of The Chiropractic Journal.

The authors conclude that "public health messages and guidelines should be refined to include reducing time spent sitting in addition to promoting physical activity."

The Mayo Clinic's N.E.A.T. lab recommends setting up a monitor and keyboard station over a treadmill and then walking at a rate of one mile per hour while working -- better for your body, and you'll think better, too!

New Testimonial

2011-07-06T14:07:00.001-07:00

Check out our "testimonials" section for a new entry. Who do you know who needs a lifeline? We can help turn people's lives from despair to hope, from sickness to health, from illness to wellness!

Latest Laser Research

2011-06-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

Low level laser therapy research covers lots of territory! Three recent studies show:

Improved quality of life for patients receiving radiation treatment for head and neck cancers;
Significantly decreased damage to heart tissue in experimental animals in whom heart attacks had been induced the previous day; and
Greatly increased range of motion in patients with shoulder impingement when compared with exercise alone.

Free Wellness Screening

2011-06-10T10:05:00.000-07:00

Join us for a free Wellness Screening on Saturday, June 18, 11:30am-2:30pm at the Rudolph Steiner Bookstore (9727 Lake City Way). Call the store (206-985-2059) to schedule your appointment.

In evaluating our well-being, we always need to consider all three sides of the Health Triangle: physical, mental/emotional, and chemical. Three simple tests serve as screening tools to find out how any of these stresses may have impacted your health. The screening will include a Stress Survey plus Blood Pressure/Hormonal Stress, Toxicity, and Trigger Point tests.

Fundraiser-for-Japan Spa Day

2011-03-21T09:31:00.000-07:00

Relaxation For You-Relief For Japan-Healing for Everyone: As we watched the images of suffering and devastation in Japan on the heels of the earthquake and tsunami, we decided to put our concern into action by supporting the UW Japanese Student Association's fundraising efforts with a Spa Day on April 1, from 4:00-8:00pm.

Here's the schedule of hands-on healing and classes and the donation amount for each:

4:00-8:00pm

15-minute seated Shiatsu (Nik Kanetomi) $5

15-minute Network chiropractic (Dr. Connie Amundson) $10

5-minute low level laser therapy (John Kanetomi) $5

1-hour Swedish massage-$30 (Sandy Matthews, LMP) $30

4:00-5:00pm

30-minute Alexander Technique classes--$5 (Catherine Kettrick, PhD, and David Mills, PhD) $5

1-hour Cranial-Sacral Therapy--$30 (Barbara Coon, LMP) (already booked!) $30

5:00-8:00pm

30-minute Reiki, Polarity Therapy, and Aromatherapy (Kate Bromley, LMP) $15

5:00-6:00pm

30-minute Qi Gong (Shoko Zama) $5

30-minute Tai Chi (Shoko Zama) $5

6:00-7:00pm

30-minute Yoga (Carol Levin) $5

7:00-8:00pm

30-minute Pilates (Cherie Boschma, BFA) $5

Here's how it works:

Make a donation at the JSA's dedicated website
Print your receipt
Schedule your appointment(s) by contacting Dr. Connie at 206-658-7658 or DrAmundson (at) gmail (dot) com
Bring your receipt on April 1 to "purchase" your services (donations may also be made at the event and additional services may be scheduled on a space-available basis)

We'll see you on the 1st!

FREE CLINIC: Fresh Ideas Gait Clinic for Runners

2011-02-14T14:22:00.000-08:00

Runners, would you like to move with the ease you felt as a kid?

Do you feel frustrated by injuries forcing you to the sidelines?
Are you concerned about the long-term effects of chronic foot, knee, hip, back or neck pain?
Have you tried expensive custom orthotics with limited success?
Are you inspired to run with minimalist shoes or even barefoot, but wondering what to do about your pronation or supination?

We've got low-cost solutions that work with conventional, minimalist, and 5-fingered running shoes, and for barefoot activities such as pilates, yoga, and martial arts. Get off on the right foot and sign up today for our FREE CLINIC on Saturday, March 12, 2:00-3:00 p.m.

Location: Ki Chiropractic & Massage, 3511 NE 105th Street, Seattle, WA 98125

ADVANCED REGISTRATION REQUIRED (include your name, contact info, and shoe size)

Call or text: 206-658-7658

Email: DrAmundson (at) gmail (dot) com

Online: TeachStreet listing

Co-sponsored by MortonsFoot.com

Laser therapy enhances strength training

2011-01-12T11:49:00.000-08:00

Low level laser therapy (LLLT) has been documented to optimize human muscle performance with physical exercise. This study tested the effect of LLLT on physical strength training compared with strength training only.

The study involved 36 healthy, fit men using an 808 nm continuous wavelength laser, much like what we use in our office. The LLLT men showed an increase of 55% in strength on isokinetic dynamometry, significantly higher than the increases with exercise alone. Soon we may see LLLT commonly used to improve sports performance.

(Lasers Med Sci. 2010 Nov 18)

Happy New Year!

2011-01-05T09:51:00.000-08:00

All of here at Ki Chiropractic and Massage wish you the very best health in 2011! Staying healthy is a practice, and I often think of my body as a very strict Zen master. It gives me immediate feedback about how I'm doing. Right now I have the sniffles, and I'm reminded to put myself to bed earlier on a consistent basis! There's nothing like restful sleep to restore vitality, so I'll add restful sleep to my wish for you all.

It's Like A Wave

2010-12-06T10:03:00.000-08:00

How we remember to take care of ourselves, then forget for awhile, then get a wake up call, and get back to doing what we know we need to do for optimum health and happiness. Take my core stabilization exercises, for example.

My goal: to do them every day. My reality: not even close! A snow holiday and a Thanksgiving weekend and come Monday morning I notice it's been a week since I last did them! So what do I do? I may gnash my teeth, scold myself, despair at my inconsistency, or -- miracle of miracles -- just take the ten minutes and DO them. Because after a week, I'm not feeling as perky and lively as I like to feel, and that's enough to remember and to take action.

Dr. Donald Epstein (founder of Network Chiropractic) talks about learning to listen to subtler cues, from our environment and from within our bodies. When we do that, we generally can minimize unnecessary suffering! We don't need the whack of a two-by-four to get our attention! We can respond to a gentle nudge, and be grateful for the nudge.

Spa Healing Day Fundraiser

2010-10-11T09:16:00.000-07:00

You are invited to experience nourishing relaxation and fun at the Spa Healing Day Fundraiser for Barbara Coon's medical care. Experience The Ultimate Spa Day:

Saturday October 16th

11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Home and home office of Dr. Connie Amundson

3511 NE 105th Street, Seattle, WA 98125

All donations go towards the $12,000 goal for Barbara to receive CCSVI medical care in San Diego, helping restore function for people living with MS.

Come experience your favorite healing work & try something new for a great price. Healthy gluten-free food too!

This event registration does everything except book the time of your chiropractic, massage, craniosacral, tuning fork facial, and TaKeTiNa class. We will book your spa services in advance or you can drop in for "Ala Carte" services.

Preview the Gift Certificate Collection to donate online or in the Silent Auction.

Click on Get More Information to preview the healing spa services. When you go to Register Now you can select your choices for your custom Ultimate Spa Day.

Get more information

Register Now!

Masks & Faces

2010-09-29T16:25:00.000-07:00

A beautiful exploration of Traditional Five Element Acupuncture-
Using photos and art of human faces, Professor Dirk Hein will provide insight into our emotional expression and deepen our understanding of human nature.

Saturday, October 16, 7:00-8:30 pm (free if preregistered) at the Wu Hsing Tao School, Talaris World Campus, 4000 NE 41st St., Bldg. D, Seattle, WA 98105.

Additional information and registration: 5 element acupuncture Meetup group page.

Be Toxin-Free

2010-08-19T07:24:00.000-07:00

Watch this clip, from the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, then check your labels. Unless it says toxin-free, it's probably not! I recommend XanGo's Glimpse and Juno line of personal care products because they are not only toxin-free, but they are formulated to provide healing nutrition to the largest organ in your body, your skin, for increased luminosity, elasticity, and firmness. And XanGo is the first company to be accepted by the NPA (Natural Products Associaiton) and has signed the Compact for Safe Cosmetics.

Open House

2010-08-11T08:13:00.000-07:00

Most of our practice members want to share their healing success with friends and loved ones, but aren't quite sure how to spread the word, so twice a year we offer complementary Network entrainments. The next one is coming soon, with light refreshments for all...

Saturday, August 28, 10:00 am (till we're done!)

Call 206-658-7658 to let us know how many guests you expect to bring.

Bone Mineral Density Test

2010-08-11T08:02:00.000-07:00

Loss of bone density can begin at a surprisingly young age, especially among thin, fair women who have avoided exposure to the sun. People like actress Gwyneth Paltrow, whose story was recently in the news, where it was reported that she has already been diagnosed with osteoporosis. Her doctor was quoted as saying that she had the lowest levels of Vitamin D he had ever seen.

As part of our festivities on August 28 (8 am - 1 pm), Body Fat Test is also offering a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Screening, which will evaluate your risk of fracture from thinning bones. Then find out about natural methods of maintaining and/or improving your bone density.

Get Tanked!

2010-08-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

What's seen on "The Biggest Loser" and used by NASA, the NFL, NCAA, and the MLB?

Among Americans, the percentage of weight from fat has been steadily increasing. How do you know if you're in the healthy range? As Covert Bailey pointed out years ago in his book, Fit or Fat, you can't tell by looking. The gold standard for testing is hydrostatic body composition testing. Ki Chiropractic and Massage is happy to sponsor Jason Whitney of Body Fat Test and his mobile body fat testing clinic.

In less than 10 minutes you can find out what where you stand, and then get motivated to improve your fitness!

When is the big event? Saturday, August 28, 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. You must reserve your spot in advance so call 206-658-7658 today!

How Much Do You Need?

2010-06-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

How much Vit D and Omega 3's do you need? A good guideline is that for every 40 pounds of body weight humans require:

450 mg of EPA
300 mg of DHA
1,000 IU of Vit D

For a more in-depth discussion, go to Innate Choice.

Ki Chiropractic & Massage

2010-05-02T07:56:00.000-07:00

New name, new programs, same excellent and caring service.

The past several weeks have been a whirlwind of reworking our care plans for insurance- and no insurance-based relief and restoration care, as well as for wellness care. All are designed to make sure that the care you need is available at an affordable price.

Some of the wellness plans ("Chiro Club") now include laser therapy, at no additional fee, and all the plans include more services for less. Give us a call to learn more.

Exciting New Research

2010-02-22T08:40:00.000-08:00

Everybody knows that life in the 21st century is full of stresses. Bills, traffic, and deadlines are just the tip of the iceberg. Unfortunately, we are not genetically programmed to deal with chronic stress, and eventually it leads to a break down of every tissue of our bodies, except for one (belly fat).

Neurons lose their connections, bones lose their density, muscles lose mass, and ligaments and tendons become weak. I see this in my practice as people who keep getting injured. They try to get started on a fitness program, but before long they are side-lined with a new, or recurring, injury.

Without getting too technical, the chemical mediators of this problem are an increase in the stress hormone cortisol and a decrease in testosterone. This reversal of normal, healthy levels starts around age 30. (This is true for both men and women, but since women make only about 10% as much testosterone as men, the loss is even more significant.) This imbalance is called Metabolic Syndrome, and is associated with cancer, diabetes, heart disease, depression, anxiety, etc.

The good news is that a recent placebo-controlled, double-blind study of XanGo Juice and Eleviv showed the restoration of metabolic balance to more youthful levels of cortisol and testosterone, with an associated elevation in mood and vigor.

You can test your personal vigor at DrConnieAmundson.com. To find out how you can raise your Vigor score by restoring your metabolic balance, read more at the web site or contact me directly for a free phone consultation.

Online Scheduling Is Up and Running

2010-02-06T11:26:00.000-08:00

It's easy to use, and takes just a few minutes to register. What is it? It's my new online booking site: DrConnieAmundson.clickbook.net. Once you register, you will be able to book appointments, reschedule, and cancel from the convenience of your computer or smart phone.

Just one tip for people already receiving care: you will select times by choosing from Network TableOne, Network TableTwo, or Network TableThree (this will make sense once you get to that point in the process).

Contact me if you have any questions!

One Story

2010-01-27T10:00:00.000-08:00

At our recent open house, visitors received a complimentary sampling of Network Chiropractic, shiatsu, and cold laser therapy. One of our guests had this to say about the results of her care that day:

I just wanted to let you know, I returned home after the treatment/massage and was able to completely touch my hands behind my back reaching one arm over, one arm under on both sides (I had not been able to do that with left arm "under" since my injury 10 mos. ago) with fingers completely overlapping. This was a greater reach/stretch than what I could even do before the injury. I was not expecting that and was shocked.

Thanks again to all who attended!

Expanded Hours/Additional Locations

2010-01-11T07:12:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to announce expanded hours, to better serve your needs.

Hours remain the same at our home practice, the AikiChiro Movement Lab (see sidebar).
I am now also treating patients on Wednesday afternoons at Fox Chiropractic, a full-insurance clinic in Wedgwood. We accept all major insurance plans, plus Medicare and Labor and Industries (workers compensation) claims. This location is ideal for seniors, injured workers, and those with group insurance whose co-payments are less than $25; or those who are mostly interested in care oriented toward relief of symptoms, rather than longer-term corrective and wellness care.
I am expanding my services and hours at the Integrated Wellness Center on Bainbridge Island. In addition to the highly popular low level laser therapy, I am now also offering Network Care and complementary hands-on healing methods.

Thank You!

2010-01-11T07:10:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to all who attended our Open House last Saturday, making it a rousing success! We're all still glowing from the opportunity to serve so many wonderful old and new friends.

Open House

2010-01-04T13:50:00.000-08:00

It happens only twice a year--a special time to thank our practice members, and for prospective patients, an opportunity to meet us and sample our wares.

Please join us for complimentary Network, Laser, and Shiatsu sessions, refreshments, and gift bags on:

Saturday, January 9

10:00 a.m. -- 12:00 p.m.

3511 NE 105th Street

206-658-7658

(Park straight head-in on the paved area in front or on 35th Ave NE; enter via the side door on the ground floor level)

Latest Cold Laser Research

2009-12-28T10:01:00.000-08:00

Two new clinical studies show Low Level Laser Therapy may be effective for major depression and reducing fat.

1) Major Depression

A recent study reported in Behavioral and Brain Functions by respected Harvard researchers has revealed some startling findings regarding the treatment of depression and substance abuse. Many previous studies have reported beneficial effects from the application of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on neurological function and have reported beneficial effects applying it to the brain in stroke patients. The researchers gave numerous standard psychological tests to 10 patients, with major depression (including 9 with anxiety, 7 with a past history of substance abuse, and 3 with post-traumatic stress disorder).

Subjects were then given four 4-minute treatments, placing the 810 nm cluster probe, the same wavelength as used in our office, on both sides of the forehead. Lab tests, brain spectroscopy and psychological tests were given after treatment.

70% of the patients experienced highly significant reductions in their symptoms following treatment, with the greatest reductions occurring at 2 weeks. There were no observed side effects. These eminent researchers have proposed that LLLT may be an effective treatment of depression and other psychiatric disorders. These findings are applicable to low level lasers like the one used in our office. They do not apply to "hot" lasers, which have many more risks, especially close to the eyes. (2009, 5:46, 8 December 2009)

2) Fat Reduction

In the field of plastic surgery, it is well known that hot laser liposuction can reduce fat in unwanted places. However, newer research is showing that LLLT may also be helpful. In this study they noted that electron microscopic images demonstrated the formation of small holes in fat cells subsequent to laser irradiation. They did a double-blind, placebo-controlled, 2-week LLLT trial and included sixty-seven volunteers between the ages of 18-65.

The study added up the decrease in the combined circumferences of participants 4 body parts, the waist, hips, and thighs. The treatment group experienced a total loss of 3.51 inches, or about 1 inch for each of the four body parts. These data suggest that low-level laser therapy can reduce overall circumference measurements of fatty regions. (Lasers Surg Med.;41(10):799-809)

"Green" Holiday Gift Idea

2009-12-10T08:59:00.000-08:00

Two Gifts For The Price Of One!

For the past quarter-century, during the holiday season, our office has donated its services in return for charitable contributions on the part of community and practice members. Together we have donated hundreds of pounds of dry goods to food banks, supplies to a teen art center, etc.

Since 2007 we have designed our donation program around the XanGo Goodness Meal Packs which:

Provide life-saving nutrition to children around the world, whose damaged digestive tracts cannot tolerate normal food
Are delivered via AmeriCares, which has 40 years experience delivering aid directly to people in need
Come in large or small packs (35 and 17 meals, respectively); the large cost $90 and the small cost $45
May be ordered directly from the AikiChiro Movement Lab (206-658-7658)

Each order comes with:

A beautiful gift card and envelope that you can give to someone on your gift list
A gift certificate for Network chiropractic or laser-shiatsu (see details below)

A large Meal Pack ($90) = a gift certificate for a complimentary initial chiropractic consultation or two 30-minute laser-shiatsu session

A small Meal Pack ($45) = a gift certificate for 50% off an initial chiropractic consultation or one 30-minute laser-shiatsu session

Whether you'd like to treat yourself or a loved one, we thank you for the opportunity to serve your health and wellness needs.

What are the odds?

2009-11-02T16:11:00.000-08:00

According to Dr. James Chestnut, B.Ed., M.Sc., D.C., your odds of dying in a car accident on your way to getting a swine flu shot are much greater than your odds of dying from the swine flu. Support your immune system with chiropractic and optimal nutrition.

Leaves Fall

2009-10-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

Rain returns,

Nights lengthen,

Air cools--

Time to cozy up with a good book (or ten)!

Improving Function After A Stroke

2009-09-28T09:59:00.000-07:00

A 90-year-old woman suffered a stroke, and was left with weakness in her right arm, and she was unable to make a fist, pronate her forearm, or touch her thumb and index finger together. Her doctors said there was no more they could do for her, so her son brought her to our office.

After her third laser therapy session her grip was about 60% better, and she was able to pronate her forearm and touch her thumb and index finger together. Her son reports that she now practices making a fist on her own.

Research shows that low level laser therapy (AKA photobiomodulation) is indicated for healing neurons, including within the brain. Daily in our practice we are seeing with our very own eyes the research being validated, sometimes more so than we had imagined.

Laser Helps Sinus Pain

2009-09-16T10:49:00.000-07:00

Laser therapy has numerous applications. Here's one patient's story about how it has helped with sinus problems.

Recently, I began receiving cold laser treatments for my sinuses. For years, I have experienced headaches and pain from the inflammation, having to sleep at night propped up on two pillows and snoring to a considerable degree. Now, the snoring is greatly reduced, I’m down to one pillow and actually feeling no pain at times. More improvement to come, I’m sure. --Pat Stimac

We offer complimentary phone consultations (206-658-7658) so you can get your questions answered before deciding whether our treatment approaches might be right for you.

Science behind improving your Vigor

2009-09-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

Here's a clip of Dr. Shawn Talbott, speaking about the research that went into creating this stress-busting formula. Over 80% of trial participants feel a difference after just one to two weeks. Discover your Vigor score at Eleviv. To order, visit my website.

Tired, Stressed, or Depressed?

2009-08-21T10:44:00.000-07:00

In his book, The Cortisol Connection, nutrition scientist Dr. Shawn Talbott, writes about the effects of chronic stress on our health and sense of well-being. Now, after five years of research and development, and four double-blind clinical trials, he has released a proprietary herbal formulation to restore our stress chemistry to its healthy, normal state.

How does this feel? People are reporting that they feel like they used to feel--happy, laughing, taking challenges in stride, staying in the present moment, not worrying about the past or the future, sleeping well... (Just ask their loved ones if they notice a difference!)

How is your vigor? Vigor is a scientific term defined as one's emotional, mental, and physical sense of well-being. Take the vigor test and then, if you'd like to "feel good again," contact me for a one-week trial size of the herbal formula.

Strengthening & Stretching for Busy People

2009-08-21T10:26:00.000-07:00

Check out my listing on Teach Street to learn more about my new class. You will learn to safely stretch and strengthen your major muscles groups in a simple routine that takes just 20 minutes.

Dates:

Saturday, September 12

Saturday, October 10

Laser Light Speeds Healing

2009-07-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

Your cells love light! How are they going to get it? Through low level laser therapy (AKA photobiomodulation)! More than 2500 research reports and more than 125 randomized, double-blind clinical trials have show effectiveness for a myriad of conditions from addictions to weight loss. Some of the common reasons laser therapy would be used in a chiropractic practice are:

improving athletic performance
stress reduction
speed healing of sprains and strains (from sports injuries or accidents)
reduce nerve pain
arthritis (with restoration of cartilage as a side-effect)
disc degeneration (again research shows actual healing of the disc tissue!)
plantar fasciitis
osteoporosis
carpal tunnel syndrome
headaches (tension and migraine)
sinusitis
TMJ

Meadowbrook Farmers Market

2009-06-15T08:05:00.001-07:00

John and I had a lovely time at the Meadowbrook Farmers Market on the campus of the Seattle Waldorf School (2728 NE 100th Street). We saw old friends and made some new ones! Lots of computer users stopped by and we taught them the Y-W-T-L (Young and Well Throughout Life) and Aikido exercises to loosen up tight problem areas (neck/shoulder/upper back/wrist/elbow). Towards the end we offered John's Kiatsu services! Definitely a service to be continued at our upcoming dates on July 12, August 2 and 30, September 20, and October 11.

Complimentary Initial Consultations

2009-06-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks for your wonderful support of our Patient Appreciation Day. The complimentary initial consultations were a big hit, so we are extending the offer through August 31.

Meadowbrook Farmers Market

2009-06-12T17:27:00.000-07:00

The Seattle Waldorf School is sponsoring a weekly Sunday farmers market (11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.) on their campus at 2728 NE 100th Street. I'll be there on June 14, July 12, August 2 and 30, September 20, and October 11.

This week's theme: Exercises for Core Strength and Computer Users. Come on by to say hi and stay for the fresh produce and delicious prepared food. Coupons for complimentary initial consultations, good through August 31, will be available at our booth.

26th Anniversary Patient Appreciation Day

2009-05-20T12:09:00.000-07:00

Help us celebrate 26 years of chiropractic practice and 10 years of Network Care! And help us grow a healthier world by letting your friends and loved ones know about this event.

Each guest will receive:

A complimentary Network session
A coupon for a complimentary initial consultation
A beautiful, hand-crafted bookmark ("Bookmark Time For Your Health!")

In addition to the above, practice members will receive a chance to win prizes based on the number of guests attending because of you:

1st Prize: One pair of Posture Control Insoles or $50 in chiropractic services
2nd Prize: One box (12 pairs) of Solemates, the world's smallest orthotic or $30 in chiropractic services
3rd Prize: Six XanGo Singles or $12 in chiropractic services

PLUS, REFRESHMENTS FOR ALL!

DATE: Saturday, May 30

TIME: 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

LOCATION: 3511 NE 105th Street, Seattle

RSVP: Dr. Connie Amundson, 206-658-7658, connieamundson(at)comcast(dot)net

Hope to see you on the 30th!

An Easy Way To Get Your 12 Daily Servings Of Vegetables

2009-05-04T09:57:00.000-07:00

The nervous system coordinates and controls just about every function in your body. Chiropractors adjust the spine. They do this because the movement of your spine has such a profound affect on your nervous system, and hence your general health.

Wellness chiropractors look at all the ways your lifestyle habits either promote a healthy spinal-neural system, or detract from it. It comes down to two simple concepts: purity and sufficiency.

One of the best things you can do for your spinal-neural system is to eat lots of fresh vegetables. But because our soils are depleted, and most fruits and vegetables have only a fraction of the nutrients they did years ago, the federal government now recommends that we get 12 servings of fresh vegetables every day. Wow, that's a lot!

An easy way to add several servings of fresh vegetables to your diet is with the "Innate Salad." Take an array of vegetables (roots, greens, etc.), chop them into thumbnail-sized bits in your food processor, top with the juice of a couple lemons, and store in your refrigerator. Now you're ready to add a dollop of your Innate Salad as either a side dish to your meal, or to your green salad.

Bon appetit!

Does No Pain Mean All Is Well?

2009-04-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

Most people believe that if they feel pain, they have a problem, and if they don't feel pain, everything is okay. But nothing could be further from the truth.

To give you one example: half the time, the first symptom of heart disease is death.

Last week a practice member was in a relatively minor car accident. She kept saying she was "fine!" but I insisted that we do a re-exam to find out for sure. Fortunately, there was no evidence of tearing of her muscles or ligaments (which would have caused pain), but there were other distortions which would mostly likely lead to problems down the road, so I recommended a short course of corrective care.

Kudos to all who make the wise choice of getting a check-up after any injury, no matter how minor it seems!

Why A Small Tear Can Be So Painful!

2009-04-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

Most people have experienced back pain at one time or another in their lives. You make a movement you've done a million times before, you feel a twinge of pain, and suddenly it's getting worse by the minute.

Many times the reason for this pain is that there has been a minor tear of the teeny-tiny deep (intrinsic) muscles of your spine. The deep muscles of the spine are over 50% neural tissue, and their purpose is not to move the vertebrae, but rather to constantly calibrate the need for stability vs. movement, so with a slight glitch in your spine, a muscle gets a minor tear which is then amplified to the larger muscles of your back, and before you know, you're in pain!

Chiropractic care (and I have found this to be especially true of Network Chiropractic) re-educates the spinal-neural system so that it is better able to constantly adjust to the demands of movement and stability that we constantly place upon ourselves.

Why Regular Care For Performing Artisits

2009-03-30T08:03:00.000-07:00

A high percentage of my long term practice members are involved in the performing arts. Like athletes, singers, musicians, actors, and dancers know that in order to perform at their best they need to keep their bodies in peak condition at all times. They find that regular care keeps them healthy, physically fit, full of energy, and allows their creativity to flow through them without restriction. As one actor says, "I can honestly say that my health, coordination and enjoyment of life are better for having known and worked with Connie all these years."

Your Inner Surfboard

2009-03-23T07:58:00.000-07:00

Einstein said, "Reality is an illusion, but a persistent one." What really surrounds us is nothing but waves: light waves, sound waves, pressure waves, which we interpret as color and shape, music and honking horns, a hug or the ground beneath our feet. But sometimes our bodies clamp down on receiving or perceiving those waves, and this may appear as physical pain.

Even our lives are waves; sometimes you're up and sometimes you're down. The trick is to find a surfboard and learn how to ride the waves. Network chiropractic care teaches you how to ride your inner surfboard.

Just last week a new patient presented with headaches and back ache, leading to insomnia. After a couple of well-placed light contacts, he immediately felt a sense of ease throughout his body. Those light contact simply showed him the way. The wisdom of his body did the rest.

Quality of Life

2009-03-18T09:04:00.000-07:00

Imagine going through life knowing that no matter what happens, you have a tool for peace and happiness...

A landmark retrospective study from the College of Medicine at the University of California, Irvine, demonstrated statistically significant benefits for people under Network chiropractic care. Researchers identified improvement in these four domains of health and wellness: physical state, mental/emotional state, stress evaluation, and life enjoyment. Moreover, they found that there was no ceiling to these benefits; the longer someone had been under care, the better his or her quality of life.

Over the years I've found that my long-term practice members have an extremely high degree of life enjoyment (and a corresponding low tolerance for needless suffering). When life's circumstances become a bit more than they can flow with easily, they know that a sense of peace is just a few minutes away. Moreover they know that they have a somatopsychic tool, in Network Care, for mining the golden gifts from any life experience.

Joint Degeneration

2009-03-09T08:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday John and I hosted a reunion potluck of our old Aikido club. Word was spread via phone and internet grapevine, and people came out of the woodwork. It was wonderful to see people I hadn't seen in 10-20 years!

Everyone looks about the same (photo evidence to the contrary!), but everyone definitely does not feel the same. Many people talked about having to give up Aikido or other activities because of degeneration and pain in their hips, knees, or feet. However, in my experience, joint degeneration does not necessarily equal pain or loss of function.

One lady in particular comes to mind. She was over 90 at the time, and radiographs showed severe degeneration of her neck. She came to see me one day after sitting bolt upright upon awakening suddenly from a dream. In the process she tweaked her neck. This is a person, who, going strictly by the physical evidence, should not have been able to turn her head more than about 45 degrees. But within a couple of visits, her neck was once again moving a full 90 degrees in both directions.

Got Bliss?

2009-03-02T07:24:00.000-08:00

If your cells are functioning at 100%, you'll be spectacularly healthy and have plenty of energy for everything you want to do in life. Unlike disease "management," health promotion is really simple, because there are just two primary causes of anything less than 100%: toxicity and deficiency.

If your spine is stuck, you have a deficiency of spinal movement. This means an increase in stress hormones (and all the toxic and deficient choices that go with feeling crummy). It also means a decrease in your brain's feel-good chemistry.

Nothing gives me greater joy than to witness the feeling of bliss that patients experience when their spinal movement is fluid and supple. If someone in your life fails to mention how great they feel most of the time, suggest a spinal check-up. There's enough suffering in life; let's have more bliss!

How Long Does It Take?

2009-02-26T14:14:00.000-08:00

Most people, when they begin chiropractic care, have at least one question, "How long will it take?" The answer depends on what the real question is. If the person is asking, "How long will it take to get rid of this pain?" that's entirely different from "How can you support me in staying active and healthy throughout my life?" The first person is oriented toward relief care, which may take as little as a few visits. The second person is oriented toward enhancing his or her quality of life, and has some idea that chiropractic can help achieve a lifetime of optimum health and happiness.

My goal is to listen deeply to my patients' questions and concerns before offering possible solutions, so that their treatment plans work for them.

Why Weekly Care For Optimal Health

2009-02-09T10:20:00.000-08:00

Most of my practice members come for wellness care on a weekly basis, and have done so for years. Why? For most of them, it probably has to do with staying in peak performance for the demands of life in the 21st century. Here's the basic science behind why that makes sense:

1) 50% of your spinal cord is dedicated to proprioception (information about movement and position);

2) 50% of that comes from your spine and your ankles;

3) Proprioception hits your brain at the cerebellum, which is the coordination center for movement, balance, memory, learning, emotions, reducing stress, and your internal organs--in other words every function in your body is enhanced by spinal movement.

On the other hand, a lack of spinal movement (fixation) causes nociception (information about noxious stimuli). Nociception means:

1) A decrease in proprioception (all the good stuff);

2) An increase in the stimulation of the stress centers of your brain.

Moreover, research shows that the soft tissue degeneration associated with restricted joint motion starts to become permanent in less than two weeks. Hence, weekly care!

Desk Ergonomics-New Ezine Article

2009-01-15T07:29:00.000-08:00

A new ezine article has been accepted, You and Your Computer: Five Stages in the Evolution of Ergonomics. Click on the link to read the full article, and find out what's the latest in living life congruently with our genetic heritage, and still earn a living!

Book of the Month

2009-01-14T08:35:00.000-08:00

For years I have kept a mental log of my "Book of the Month" (taking month very loosely, it might be week, it might be quarter, depending). My book-of-the-month is something I am currently reading and find particularly useful, inspiring, or noteworthy. Today I am launching the translation of that mental log into the world outside my own head with today's posting. The End of Your World by Adyashanti initiates what will be a semi-regular feature of this blog. As the book jacket says, "uncensored straight talk on the nature of enlightenment." Since we're talking about enlightenment, the less I say the better! But my primary reaction so far is a huge sense of relief--the kind of relief I feel when I read or hear something that cuts through the murk of my daily thoughts (90% self-justifications and/or worries) and says something that I know deeply but have not articulated. To get a sense of Adyashanti's teachings check out the free downloads of his guided meditations, available at www.adyashanti.org.

1 Adjustment Is Worth 50-200 Biofeedback Sessions

2009-01-12T07:22:00.000-08:00

A noteworthy recent study, A Four-Case Study: The effect of the chiropractic adjustment on the brain wave pattern as measured by EEG, showed that the positive effect of one chiropractic adjustment in producing a more balanced brain wave pattern was equal to 50-200 biofeedback sessions. The researchers concluded that "the chiropractic adjustment [placed] the subjects into a predominantly Alpha brain wave pattern. Alpha is the conscious, meditative state, classically associated with a greater degree of relaxation and health... We [also] noticed that the Alpha activity was also accompanied by an increase in general brain wave activity."

In practice chiropractors have long found that chiropractic adjustments decrease patients' stress and increase their sense of well-being. Thanks to these researchers we now have at least one pathway to explain this benefit.

My Journey Into and Out of S.A.D.

2009-01-07T13:45:00.001-08:00

For many years I suffered greatly from Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.). Several years ago it had gotten to the point where, at the first sign of those low-hanging clouds, my body and mind cried out in despair, "How am I going to make it through the next ten months? Please, someone, get me out of this godforsaken hellhole!" It took awhile, but gradually I pieced together a solution, and for the past three years I have been complete free of S.A.D. symptoms. Now I can count on feeling happy and having plenty of energy all year long. For the complete story, view my newly published ezine article, SAD No More - A Seven-Step Journey Out Of The Pit Of Seasonal Affective Disorder.

New Year's Resolutions

2009-01-05T10:36:00.000-08:00

Do you really need one more person to weigh in on the value of setting goals, how to achieve them, and on and on (and on and on)? I know I don't! But there is one key that most advice-givers forget, and that's the part about having fun! Research shows that potentially healthful lifestyle changes do not actually yield the benefits we're looking for unless we enjoy doing them! So, if you're not having fun (which I define as a pleasurable physiological state of flow), then you might as well sit in front of the TV and eat bonbons! This year, treat yourself to something special: have fun!

Healthy Skin for Sun Lovers

2008-12-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

The sun's rays damage our skin. People spend hundreds of dollars on skin care every year. Unfortunately, most skin care products are full of toxic chemicals.* For tips on all-natural ways of protecting and healing the largest organ of your body, read my latest e-zine article, A Youthful Complexion: Six Simple Solutions for Sun Lovers.

*Uncover the toxic dangers of your personal care products at the Environmental Working Group's fascinating and sobering website.

Whole Foods Supplements I Recommend

2008-12-19T17:32:00.000-08:00

There are a handful of nutritional supplements that I recommend to just about all my patients. Over the years I've sorted through dozens of excellent products, and only a few have met the following criteria. The supplement must be:

Based in whole foods
Genetically congruent (not artificially altered for one reason or another)
Pure (non-toxic)
Essential for human health
Difficult or impossible to attain in sufficient quantities or purity from the foods we eat.

Here are the few supplements that fulfill all of these requirements:

Omega 3's (DHA and EPA): The ideal ratio of Omega 6's to Omega 3's is from 1:1 to 2:1, but has become 25:1 on average for Americans.
Probiotics: Research shows that we now consume one-millionth of the healthy bacteria that we did before pesticides, herbicides, and industrial farming. Be sure to look for L. plantarum in the ingredient list.
Xanthones: Scientists have identified dozens of benefits from this class of phytonutrients, including anti-inflammatory properties. The best source of xanthones is from the whole fruit of the mangosteen (especially the rind). Researchers have identified over 200 positive biological effects from the mangosteen.
Vitamin-Mineral Complex: I recommend this only to my patients who do not always eat their recommended twelve servings of vegetables and fruits, either through salads or juicing. Not all complexes are equal. Many are not absorbed and pass right through one's system. (Ask any portable toilet technician!) One excellent brand is XanGo's 3SIXTY5, which comes in either men's or women's formulas, and is exceptionally complete.

The best source of Omega 3's and probiotics I have identified can be found at www.innatechoice.com. To receive a discount, enter access code WP90502 when ordering. After looking at various brands of mangosteen juice, the only one that is comprised of the whole fruit (pulp, rind, stem, and seeds), and fulfills the above requirments, is XanGo, which you can order at www.DrConnieAmundson.net (3SIXTY5 information and ordering also available at this site).

[To read a longer version of this article, view it on EzineArticles.com.]

Wrist Stretches for Computer Users

2008-12-17T11:29:00.000-08:00

Many of my patients have found these wrist exercises--taken from Aikido--to be very effective for preventing and reducing the harmful effects of long-term use of computer keyboards and the infamous mouse!

Each exercise should be performed slowly and gently for ten repetitions on each side. You should feel a pleasant stretch, but no pain. If you cannot do these stretches without pain, please stop immediately and consult your chiropractor.

Thanks to Nik Kanetomi for demonstrating the stretches and John Kanetomi for wielding the camera!

Wrist Flexion

*Begin by holding

the back of one

hand in front of

your belly.

*Slowly raise your

hands, applying a

gentle pressure to

flex your wrist.

*Stop when you reach

your chest and hold

for 1-2 seconds.

Wrist Flexion With Rotation

*Hold your hands in

front of your chest

with thumb of one

hand placed in the

groove between the

4th and 5th bones

of your opposite hand,

near your knuckles.

*Slowly lower both hands, applying a

gentle pressure to

flex and rotate your wrist.

*Stop when you reach

the lower part of your

chest and hold for 1-2 seconds.

Wrist Flexion (Z)

*Hold your hands out

in front of your

chest as indicated

in the photo(your thumb is on top).

*Slowly bring your hands

toward your chest,

gently twisting your

hand toward your face.

*Stop when you reach

the end point of your

stretch and hold

for 1-2 seconds.

Another ezine article accepted

2008-12-17T11:02:00.000-08:00

Yea, my second article, Inflammation: Seven Ways to Silence the Silent Killer, has just been published at ezinearticles.com. To find my articles, put "Connie Amundson" into their search function and search by author.

It was easier than I thought

2008-12-15T18:32:00.000-08:00

Here I am in the blogosphere, with musings about chiropractic, health, wellness, and the dilemma of semi-consciousness. My first e-zine article (Choosing a Chiropractor: Nine Ways That Worked and One That Didn't) was accepted today! Yippee! I'll let you know where it's posted, as soon as I figure out how to add links...