Vibrate & Hydrate

It’s Good Health Sense®

As Published is the March 2008 issue of The Scottsdale Downtowner

Spring into Action:

Vibrate & Hydrate

By Dr. Daniel P. Secrest Chiropractic Physician

I love a parade. I especially love a marching band with the crash of the symbols, the blare of the horns and the deep beat of the drums. The sounds vibrate through your body and wash away all feelings of daily stress. It is a mini holistic experience.

Unfortunately, the parade is over all too soon and we quickly return to reality. But, wouldn’t it be wonderful to be in a marching band?

Why not pack up the kids and march off into the desert on a parade of your own? Ride a bike, hike a mountain, play tennis together or a round of golf. It is all great vibes, mind relaxing and terrific bonding fun for the family.

However, before you embark on the family outing, there are a few things you should gather or do to avoid a mishap. Be sure everyone is wearing the proper clothing. Dress in layers of loose clothing that can be removed or put on as needed. Take an extra pair of socks and wear laced comfortable shoes (no sandals in the desert, please). Be sure everyone has a hat, sunglasses and an active lifestyle UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF or 25 or greater. A small first aid kit and pack of matches are also good ideas. Yes, take a cell phone too. A quick check of the weather and local fire and traffic conditions is also advisable.

In your comfortably fitting back pack, be sure there is plenty of water for everyone. Two 16 oz. bottles, even for your younger trekkers, is essential to keep them properly hydrated. Just remember, if you are not into water, you probably will be into pain. Activity releases a barrage of toxins in the body, one of the most commonly known is lactic acid. If it is not washed away, it can cause stiffness in your muscles, ligaments and joints.

Stretching before any activity is well worth a few minutes and can also be a fun time for kids. Be sure not to use jerky motions when stretching but rather slowly reach out and hold your stretch for 7-10 seconds. Relax for 10 seconds and do it again. Reps of 3-6 are usually sufficient and can avoid an unnecessary injury. Should you want to know some outstanding stretching routines, consult the “Member Wellness” section of this web site.

Even with the best of preparations, mishaps can occasionally occur. Minor cuts and scratches are best treated on site. That is what first aid is all about. Should your mishap be more serious, seek professional care as soon as possible. Sprains, strains, and hard falls can only exacerbate with time. The “tough guy” approach is a “dumb guy” reproach.

You may be surprised to learn that over 90% of the patients who come into my office for neck and back pain, also require an extremity adjustment. Knees, ankles, feet are quite easy to adjust when the injury is new and can avoid greater pain, with longer care, when an extremity misalignment causes compensating displacement in the spine. Similar problems can result from elbow, wrist and shoulder injuries.

It is important to note that the benefits of holistic activity are overwhelming. It can be a great emotional balancer for your daily workload. Performance in all phases of life will actually increase and your energy will soar. So, “vibrate” and “hydrate” and seek early intervention in case of a mishap. It’s good health sense.

Dr. Dan Secrest is a practicing physician at Secrest Family Chiropractic on Hayden & Osborn Roads in Scottsdale (Next to OfficeMax). He is the former radio host of his own talk show in Phoenix and has appeared on radio, TV and in the local press. The advice given in this column is for informational & entertainment purposes only and you should consult your physician before proceeding. Should you have a health question or other inquiry, you may contact Dr. Dan through on this website at "Contact Us"  or through his office at 480-994-4411.