Commuting Time and Low Back Pain
Using data from the Korean Working Conditions Survey, researchers found that workers whose typical commute exceeds 40 minutes are at elevated risk for low back pain. However, among those who regularly exercise or participate in sports, the risk for low back pain did not increase until the one-hour commute threshold. Industrial Health, November 2023
Shoveling Snow Can Trigger Heart Issues
The American Heart Association notes that the exertion, cold air exposure, and breath-holding that often accompanies shoveling snow can result in potentially dangerous increases in heart rate and blood pressure, especially for those with existing heart risks or low fitness. If you must shovel snow, it’s recommended to start at a gradual pace and low-intensity, and to stop immediately if any symptoms develop such as lightheadedness or chest pain. American Heart Association, January 2024
Less Omega-6 Fatty Acids, More Omega-3 Fatty Acids
In a recent animal study, researchers observed that mice fed a diet with a lower ratio of omega-6 (from vegetable oils, for example) to omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oils, for example) consumed fewer total calories, had better insulin tolerance, and gained less weight than mice on a diet with a higher ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. The mice on the higher ratio diet also exhibited higher levels of anxiety symptoms and inflammation in the brain. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, February 2024
Exercise May Reduce Pregnancy-Related Lumbopelvic Pain
Lumbopelvic pain is a common complaint during pregnancy. However, a systematic review that included 16 studies found that women who are physically active during pregnancy are less likely to experience lumbopelvic pain, and those who develop lumbopelvic pain report lower pain intensity and disability levels than their sedentary peers. Journal of Personalized Medicine, December 2023
Overcoming a Phobia May Ease Other Fears
In a recent experiment that included 50 individuals with both a fear of spiders and a fear of heights, researchers observed that those who underwent exposure therapy for arachnophobia also experienced a measurable improvement in their acrophobia. Translational Psychiatry, January 2024
Be a Good Neighbor When the Ground is Icy
Icy conditions can increase the risk for slip and fall injuries, which can be quite serious, even deadly, for older adults. In such times, the American College of Surgeons recommends helping your older neighbors by offering to salt their pathways, shovel snow, or escort them from their front door to their vehicle when they need to leave the home. American College of Surgeons, January 2024
“Movement is life.” ~ Jules Verne
This information should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.
