Your new digest 2

Optimize your practice with artificial intelligence

Kameron Smith — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 13:51:59 -0400

Tips to streamline your workflow, engage more with patients and boost your ranking with artificial intelligence

Technology is constantly changing how we work. Artificial intelligence (AI) might sound like something reserved for big hospitals or tech companies, but the reality is, it’s easier to integrate into your chiropractic practice than you think. You can use it to automate tasks, attract more patients and save a ton of time. And the good news is, you don’t need to hire an IT department or pay for expensive tools to start benefiting from AI right now.

This article covers a few simple ways you can harness the power of AI—without getting overwhelmed by tech talk. From using web analytics to improve your website to having an AI scribe handle your notes, we’ve got you covered.

Start with analytics: Tailor your blog content like a pro

If you’ve ever wondered how people find your website or what content resonates most with your patients, analytics is your answer. Many companies offer free services, and once your account is set up, they give you a behind-the-scenes look at how visitors interact with your site.

How does this help you? Well, with this information, you can create blog posts tailored specifically to what your audience is already searching for. Let’s say your blog post on “five tips to alleviate lower back pain” gets the most traffic. Now you know your audience is hungry for more content related to back pain. You can write follow-up posts that dive deeper into specific exercises, treatments or conditions; all related to back pain. This keeps people returning to your site for more, which is a signal to search engines that you have high-quality, authoritative content.

The more useful and engaging content you put out, the more browsers perceive your site as an authority, which helps push you up the search rankings. And yes, all of this helps drive more traffic to your website, meaning more potential patients.

Cross-link your blog posts with YouTube videos

Writing great blog content is a big win for your website, but you can take it even further. Have you ever thought about turning those blog posts into short, informative videos on YouTube? Not only does video make content more engaging, but you can also cross-link between your blog and YouTube to create a content loop that keeps people on your site longer.

For example, imagine you’ve written a blog about “the best stretches for neck pain.” You can make a simple video where you demonstrate those stretches. Then, embed that video in your blog post and add a link to the blog post in your YouTube video description. Now, whether people find you on YouTube or your blog, they’re more likely to visit both. This strategy keeps visitors on your site longer and also signals to Google that your content is valuable across multiple platforms.

And don’t forget to share these videos and blogs on your social media accounts. The more your content is shared and linked, the more likely Google will give your website a thumbs-up, which helps boost your rankings for free.

Introducing AI scribes: Your new best friend for documentation

Let’s face it: Writing patient notes isn’t exactly the most fun part of your day. But it’s a necessary evil, right? What if I told you there’s a way to cut that time significantly? Enter AI scribe software, an absolute game changer when it comes to documentation.

AI scribes listen in on your patient interactions and automatically generate detailed notes based on the conversation. This means instead of spending your time typing up notes, you can focus more on your patients and less on paperwork. Studies have shown AI scribe tools can save providers an hour per day. Imagine what you could do with those extra hours.

What makes AI scribes so great?

Saves time: Say goodbye to hours spent on patient notes each week.
Accuracy: AI scribes produce detailed, clear notes that don’t miss any important details.
More face time with patients: When you’re not distracted by note-taking, your patient care improves because you’re giving them your full attention.

If you haven’t looked into using an AI scribe in your practice yet, it’s worth checking out. The time saved alone could drastically change how your days look.

Chatbots: Your 24/7 assistants

Now, what about those times when you’re off the clock, but potential patients are still visiting your website or reaching out with questions? That’s where chatbots come in. These handy little AI tools can engage with visitors on your website 24/7, answering questions, booking appointments and even offering information on common chiropractic issues. All while you’re sleeping.

Setting up a chatbot on your site can take a lot of administrative tasks off your plate. Instead of your staff fielding repetitive questions like “what are your hours?” or “how can I schedule an appointment?” a chatbot handles it for you. And if a patient needs more personalized help, the chatbot can collect information and let them know when you’ll be available to follow up.

Why use a chatbot?

It works while you sleep: Even if your office is closed, your chatbot can keep answering inquiries and scheduling appointments.
It saves your team time: Instead of answering the same questions over and over, your staff can focus on tasks that require a personal touch.
It’s easy to implement: There are plenty of affordable chatbot tools that can be customized for your practice, so you don’t need to be a tech expert to set one up.

Final thoughts: Bring AI into your practice without the stress

Integrating AI into your chiropractic practice doesn’t have to be a complicated process, and it doesn’t have to break the bank either. By starting with those simple tools, you can streamline your workflow, save time and connect with more patients.

If you find yourself short on time or patience for handling this all yourself, there are companies that specialize in AI-driven marketing and administrative solutions for DCs. But if you’re willing to roll up your sleeves, you can make a big impact on your practice; all for free.

The future of AI in chiropractic is here, and it’s surprisingly accessible. Why not start today? Not sure where to start? Feel free to reach out to me with any questions!

Kameron Smith, DC, has more than a decade of experience having built two successful family practices and helped scale another from three to six providers. For the last three years, he has focused on implementing AI into practices, easing administrative burdens to make practice more enjoyable. For more information, email kameron2440@gmail.com or call 641-236-5743.

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Take a deep dive into the benefits of probiotics

Lexi Loch — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 12:50:10 -0400

This article presents the latest science-based research on the microbiome and illustrates how the use of probiotics is transforming patient care.

Humans are a dynamic ecosystem, formed by trillions of microbes, such as bacteria, fungi and viruses, that comprise the microbiome. When discussing the microbiome with patients, I often describe it as a vast ocean, teeming with life. Ideally, this ocean contains thriving microbial communities that perform essential duties: breaking down food, producing beneficial nutrients and metabolites, keeping undesirable pathogens in check and promoting immune tolerance.

Unfortunately, this vital ecosystem faces constant challenges from our modern lifestyle; ultra-processed foods, microplastics, chronic stress and frequent antibiotic use all contribute to dysbiosis, or a state of microbial imbalance that can adversely affect our health.¹

A unique microbial fingerprint

The microbiome is remarkably individualized, like a fingerprint, completely unique from person to person. Even identical twins may only share up to 50% of their microbiome composition, highlighting the impact that environmental factors can have.² Despite this tremendous variance, the majority of healthy adult microbiomes share a common theme. About 80% of the gut bacterial species belong to three dominant phyla: Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes (which include Lactobacillus species) and Actinobacteria (which include Bifidobacterium species).³

An expansion of awareness and applications

As the awareness of the microbiome continues to grow, so do the scientifically-validated applications of probiotics. When searching “probiotics” on PubMed.gov, there were a mere 13 studies published in 1994. Fast forward 30 years later and there were more than 7,000 studies published in 2024 alone; a remarkable 500-fold increase in probiotic research. We are now beginning to see the true potential of probiotics and their therapeutic uses across numerous acute and chronic conditions.

Gastrointestinal benefits: Where it all began

Probiotics are perhaps best known for their digestive benefits. Most of the early research on probiotics focused on conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and its accompanying symptoms of diarrhea, constipation, bloating and abdominal pain. In a study involving people with IBS-D (diarrhea predominant), lower amounts of Lactobacillus spp. were found in fecal samples and colonic biopsies compared to healthy controls.⁴

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, a probiotic blend (including Bifidobacterium spp. and Lactobacillus spp.) administered twice daily for one month significantly relieved IBS symptoms in almost 70% of the participants versus only 37.5% of the placebo group. Improvements in abdominal discomfort and bloating were noted only in the probiotic group.⁵

Beyond digestion: Probiotics and chronic inflammation

Research has discovered probiotics can exert benefits far beyond the gut by helping alleviate chronic, low-grade inflammation. Dysbiosis, or a state of imbalance in the microbiome, is a key driver of this inflammation. Adverse changes from dysbiosis include an increase in intestinal permeability (leaky gut) and subsequent activation of the immune system, which ramps up pro-inflammatory cytokine production.⁶ With chronic inflammation underpinning virtually every chronic disease, using probiotics to address this root cause can be part of the solution to many health problems.

Emerging frontier: Gut-joint axis

A novel area of probiotic research is focusing on the gut-joint axis. The hallmark of many joint diseases is chronic, low-grade inflammation, which may be driven by dysbiosis. With more than 70% of adults over the age of 55 being impacted by osteoarthritis, there is a pressing need for safe and effective treatments.⁷ Could probiotics be part of this treatment strategy?

Recent animal studies showing promising results

In a 2021 model of osteoarthritis, oral administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus reduced pro-inflammatory compounds, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), along with reducing pain scores and markers of intestinal damage. When human chondrocytes were treated with L. rhamnosus, anti-inflammatory actions were observed, including upregulation of protective interleukin-10 (IL-10) and decreases in harmful matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs).⁸

In another study, the probiotic L. plantarum was used in an animal model of surgically-induced osteoarthritis (OA). Six weeks of treatment improved bone structure, protected cartilage from damage and reduced synovial inflammation. Additionally, probiotic treatment reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β and TNF-α, which are known contributors to pain hypersensitivity.⁹

There’s even some preliminary research on probiotics alleviating postsurgical pain and visceral pain.¹⁰ Because this is such a new area of research, much of the research remains pre-clinical. At the time of writing this article, fewer than 100 publications contained the term “gut-joint axis.” However, these promising results suggest human clinical applications may soon follow.¹¹

LPS and joint health

LPS (lipopolysaccharide) is an endotoxin found in the outer membrane of many gram-negative pathogens. Higher levels of circulating LPS are common in states of dysbiosis and chronic inflammatory conditions. As an activator of the immune system, LPS has been implicated in the pathogenesis and severity of osteoarthritis (OA). Researchers have found increased levels of LPS in the synovial fluid is positively associated with severity of knee osteophytes, joint space narrowing and overall pain scores in knee OA.^12,13

Restoring balance with probiotics

We need to be vigilant about protecting and nourishing the microbiome. We may not be able to control how our microbiome originally developed; method of birth (vaginal or Caesarean section), whether we were breastfed and for how long, antibiotic usage during childhood, exposure to nature as children and our household environment; we can do our best to help our patients (and ourselves) optimize the microbiome moving forward.

When considering probiotic supplementation, certain key species have demonstrated particular benefit. I often recommend human strain probiotics, such as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, to help restore balance.

Lactobacillus species are bacteria that make lactic acid and are found throughout the body in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract and female reproductive tract.¹⁴ Bifidobacterium species are among the first probiotics that colonize the gastrointestinal tract, partly because they help break down monosaccharides, such as those found in breast milk.¹⁵

Both Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium produce short-chain fatty acids that play crucial roles in immune function, reducing inflammation, promoting intestinal tight junction integrity and protecting against pathogenic bacteria.

A safe and effective combination

When recommending a probiotic supplement, I look for specific characteristics that Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium bifidum fulfill:

Well-researched: As noted above, these strains have robust research verifying their uses for gastrointestinal issues, joint conditions, mood disorders and more.
Dairy-free: These probiotics can be cultured on a non-dairy medium, making them suitable for vegans and people with dairy sensitivities.
Human strain: These bacteria are native to the human digestive system and therefore can survive the digestive processes and implant in the intestinal tract.
Shelf-stable: Being able to store probiotics with other supplements usually translates to a higher adherence. Personally, if I have to keep a supplement in the refrigerator, there’s about a 99% chance I’ll forget to take it; many of my patients share this sentiment.
Potency at time of use: Quality probiotics are guaranteed to contain their stated potency of live, colony forming units (CFUs) at the time of use, not just at manufacture.
Appropriate dosage: One capsule daily delivering 20 billion CFUs is generally sufficient. While there may be applications that call for higher doses, I find that 20 billion CFUs provides an excellent daily maintenance dose for most patients.
Prebiotic inclusion: Formulations containing fructooligosaccharides (FOS) provide a food source for the probiotics themselves, which can enhance their effectiveness.

Final thoughts

As research continues to expand, the therapeutic applications of these magnificent microbes will only become more pronounced and offer new insights into supporting patients with acute and chronic health conditions.

Lexi Loch, ND, received her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from the National University of Natural Medicine, where she graduated with highest honors. In addition to her practice, she is a medical writer and editor, researcher, educator and patient advocate. Her articles have been published in various natural health periodicals and reference books. Prior to her education as a physician, Loch worked in veterinary medicine as a certified veterinary technician. She is also an accomplished athlete, playing collegiate volleyball and participating in overseas tournaments, an avid snowboarder and has been world ranked in downhill longboarding. Loch is a member of the Scientific Affairs and Education team for EuroMedica.

References

1. Jeyaraman M, et al. The gut-joint axis in osteoarthritis. Cureus. 2023;15(11):e48951. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38106807/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

2. Turnbaugh PJ, et al. Organismal, genetic and transcriptional variation in the deeply sequenced gut microbiomes of identical twins. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA.
2010;107(16):7503-7508. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20363958/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

3. Mariat D, et al. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio of the human microbiota changes with age. BMC Microbiology. 2009;123. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19508720/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

4. Rinninella E, et al. What is the healthy gut microbiota composition? A changing ecosystem across age, environment, diet and diseases. Microorganisms. 2019;7(1):14. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30634578/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

5. Yook JS, et al. Effects of multispecies probiotics on irritable bowel syndrome: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014;29(1):52-59. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23829297/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

6. Potrykus M, et al. Intestinal microbiota as a contributor to chronic inflammation and its potential modifications. Nutrients. 2021;13(11):3839. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34836095/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

7. Osteoarthritis. July 2023. [Fact sheet]. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/osteoarthritis. Accessed June 19, 2025.

8. Marchese L, et al. The complex interplay between the gut microbiome and osteoarthritis: A systematic review on potential correlations and therapeutic approaches. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;25(1):143. https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/1/143/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

9. Lin Y-Y, et al. Therapeutic effects of live Lactobacillus plantarum GKD7 in a rat model of knee osteoarthritis. Nutrients. 2022;14(15):3170. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.
gov/35956346/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

10. Fyntanidou B, et al. Probiotics in postoperative pain management. J Pers Med. 2023;13(12):1645. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38138872/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

11. Jeyaraman M, et al. The gut-joint axis in osteoarthritis. Cureus. 2023;15(11):e48951. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38106807/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

12. Huang Z, et al. Both systemic and local lipopolysaccharide (LPS) burden are associated with knee OA severity and inflammation. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2016;24(10):1769-1775. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27216281/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

13. Guido G, et al. Gut permeability and osteoarthritis, towards a mechanistic understanding of the pathogenesis: A systematic review. Ann Med. 2021;53(1):2380-2390. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34933614/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

14. Dempsey E and Corr SC. Lactobacillus spp. for gastrointestinal health: Current and future perspectives. Front Immunol. 2022;13:840245. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35464397/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

z15. O’Callaghan A and van Sinderen D. Bifidobacteria and their role as members of the human gut microbiota. Front Microbiol. 2016;7:925. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27379055/. Accessed June 19, 2025.

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Your cybersecurity checklist: What you need to know

Mark Sanna, DC — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 12:45:38 -0400

Cyberattacks are on the rise, and healthcare practices of all sizes, including chiropractic offices, are being targeted.

A single breach can cost you money, your reputation and the trust you’ve worked so hard to build. With the latest HIPAA rules now active, cybersecurity isn’t just smart—it’s required.

The good news? You don’t need to be an IT expert to get this right. You just need to know what’s changed and take action.

HIPAA has tightened up: Here’s what’s new

HIPAA’s updated Security Rule now requires faster responses and tighter safeguards. If your practice experiences a data breach or a patient requests their records, you now have just 15 days to respond—half the time previously allowed. That means your systems and protocols need to be ready to move quickly.

Encryption is now mandatory for all protected health information, whether it’s stored on a server, emailed or backed up to the cloud. HIPAA also requires multi-factor authentication; meaning staff need more than just a password to access patient data.

Patients have new rights, too. They can ask for their health records to be sent to personal health apps and can take pictures of their records during a visit. There are also enhanced protections around reproductive health information, which means you need to update your privacy notices accordingly.

Check your tech and communication tools

Start by talking to your electronic health records (EHR) provider. Ask whether your data is encrypted at rest and in transit, if multi-factor authentication is available and enabled, and if access logs are maintained. If they can’t say yes to all of those questions, it’s time to reassess.

Next, take a good look at your communication platforms. Email, texting, appointment reminders and even mobile apps must all meet HIPAA’s security standards. If you’re storing or transmitting patient data with any of these tools, encryption and secure access are a must.

Think of this like performing a spinal screening on your practice’s technology. Any misalignment in your system could lead to serious consequences.

Why penetration testing is worth your time

Here’s a powerful but often overlooked tool: penetration testing. This is when a cybersecurity expert attempts to “break into” your system—legally—to find weaknesses before a real hacker does.

While not technically required under HIPAA, penetration testing is highly recommended and satisfies the Security Rule’s mandate for risk assessment. It gives you a clear picture of your vulnerabilities and provides practical steps to fix them. You’ll receive a report showing where your systems are strong and where they’re exposed.

This isn’t just smart; it’s proactive protection.

Your vendors matter: Hold them accountable

If you work with third-party vendors who handle patient data, such as billing companies or EHR providers, you’re responsible for their security practices, too.

Every vendor must sign a business associate agreement confirming their commitment to HIPAA compliance. And under the new rules, you’re now expected to verify their security measures annually. That means asking about their encryption standards, breach response plans and data storage practices. Keep that documentation; it’s your safety net in an audit.

Train your team like it’s a priority

Most data breaches come down to human error, not hacking. Someone clicks a malicious link or leaves a screen open and suddenly, you’ve got a HIPAA violation.

That’s why staff training is critical. Everyone in your office should know the new HIPAA rules, understand how to spot phishing attempts and follow proper protocols for handling sensitive data. Make training a regular part of your team meetings and document everything, including who attended, what was covered and when.

Your team doesn’t have to be tech-savvy, but they do need to be alert and informed.

Even small practices need big protection

You might be thinking, “I run a small practice—does this all still apply to me?” It absolutely does. HIPAA doesn’t make exceptions based on size. What it does allow is flexibility in how you meet the standards.

That means you don’t need the same setup as a hospital, but you do need reasonable safeguards. Choose HIPAA-compliant tools. Enable secure logins and encryption on all devices. Make sure your mobile phones and tablets are locked down and your office policies are up to date.

This is about doing what’s appropriate for your practice—without cutting corners.

Your cybersecurity checklist

If you’re wondering where to start, here’s a simple plan:

Make sure all patient data is encrypted (both at rest and in transit).
Enable multi-factor authentication wherever protected health information is accessed.
Update your HIPAA policies to reflect new response timelines and patient privacy rights.
Train your staff on the new rules and document their participation.
Review and update vendor contracts; confirm all vendors are HIPAA-compliant.
Schedule a third-party penetration test to identify vulnerabilities in your systems.
Maintain documentation of all training sessions, vendor verifications and system upgrades.

Final thoughts: Cybersecurity is an act of trust

Cybersecurity isn’t just about checking off a compliance box. It’s about honoring the trust your patients place in you. When someone walks into your office, they’re entrusting you not only with their spine but with their most personal health information. Keeping that information safe is part of delivering excellent care.

Think of cybersecurity the way you think about patient health: Don’t wait for a crisis to take action. Build your systems. Educate your team. Review and adjust as needed.

Mark Sanna, DC, ACRB LEVEL II, FICC, is the CEO of Breakthrough Coaching, a practice management company for chiropractic and multidisciplinary practices. He is a Board member of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress, a member of the Chiropractic Summit and a member of the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan Leadership Committee. Sanna is the author of “Cracking the Code: Marketing Chiropractic—How Chiropractors Align Spines and Minds,” available on amazon.com. To learn more, call 800-723-8423 or visit mybreakthrough.com.

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Parker Seminars hosts successful annual Neurocon event

Chiropractic Economics Staff — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:46:22 -0400

From July 25-26, Parker Seminars hosted its annual Neurocon event at the Parker University campus in Dallas, Texas.

Worldwide leaders spoke to 1,200 attendees about scientific breakthroughs in preventing neurological conditions, advancing brain health research and helping people live longer, healthier lives, noted a Parker press release.

Event speakers featured popular New York Times bestselling authors, including journalist Michael Easter, award-winning science journalist James Nestor, DC, and scientist Heidi Haavik, neurologist and addiction specialist Russell Surasky, sleep expert and professor Matthew Walker, doctor and performance consultant Tommy Wood and teacher and researcher Cassie Holmes.

Neurocon 2025 also featured an Expo Hall, Alumni Lounge, opportunities to earn valuable CE credits, exclusive parties, book signings and more.

Parker Seminars is recognized for offering a dynamic platform that fosters collaboration, learning and growth among diverse professionals. Mark your calendars for additional upcoming events, including:

Parker Seminars Dallas: October 3-5, 2025
Las Vegas: February 26-28, 2026
Miami: June 12-14, 2026

Go to parkerseminars.com for more information or to register for an upcoming Parker Seminars event!

About Parker University

Parker University, the fastest-growing college in Dallas and the fourth-fastest-growing in Texas, was founded in 1982 by Dr. James William Parker as Parker College of Chiropractic. Today, the university serves over 2,300 students and offers more than 25 accredited academic programs and certificates, including its flagship Doctor of Chiropractic program, which is home to the second-largest chiropractic cohort in the world. Parker University also leads in innovation with master’s degrees in Clinical Neuroscience, Strength and Human Performance and Functional Nutrition. Recently, Parker University launched its new Human Performance Center, led by Andy Galpin. Additionally, five new board-approved programs are set to launch soon.

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Radial pressure wave therapy in chiropractic care

Christopher Proulx — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 21:01:00 -0400

What is radial pressure wave therapy?

The use of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has rapidly expanded in musculoskeletal care. DCs have embraced it as a noninvasive solution supporting recovery in tendinopathy, fascial disorders and soft tissue dysfunction. Yet, amidst the proliferation of devices, confusion remains. Is radial better than focused? Which technology “goes deeper”? Does one replace the other?

These questions, though common, often miss the clinical point. The focus shouldn’t be on classifying devices but rather on applying them purposefully, according to the patient’s presentation and phase of healing.

Radial pressure wave (RPW) therapy, delivered via pneumatic or electromagnetic generators, has emerged as a strategic first-line shockwave application. It is not only accessible and cost-effective, but physiologically appropriate for addressing superficial pain, neuromechanical tension and soft tissue reactivity. For DCs, RPW therapy offers a sensory-rich treatment that aligns well with the profession’s manual heritage while offering efficiency and scalability in practice.

How radial pressure wave therapy works: Mechanical signal, neurological response

Unlike focused shockwave, which converges acoustic energy to a precise tissue depth (often 6–12 cm), RPW propagates energy radially through mechanical percussion. Though often labeled “shockwave,” RPW technically functions more like a pressure wave, diffusing energy outward across a shallower target zone (typically 3–5 cm) with high frequency.

The combination of dispersive pressure and frequency engages superficial mechanoreceptors, such as Meissner’s corpuscles, Ruffini endings and Pacinian corpuscles, which are richly distributed in fascia and subcutaneous tissue.

This neuromechanical interaction leads to reduced peripheral nociception, improved blood flow and lymphatic return and sensory desensitization that increases tolerance to movement and therapy.

In clinical context: When and why radial pressure wave therapy works

RPW has sometimes been referred to as an introduction or gateway into acoustic therapy, implying there is a progression to something else and ultimately abandoning this approach at a later time. RPW is not simply “entry-level” shockwave; it’s a precision tool for specific conditions and stages. Its greatest utility is found in addressing the following:

Myofascial pain
Tendon-bone junctions (e.g., lateral elbow, Achilles insertion)
Fasciopathies (e.g., plantar fasciitis, iliotibial band syndrome)
Paraspinal hypertonicity
Upper trapezius or gluteal tension disorders
By engaging a broad surface area with consistent stimulus, RPW improves local tissue pliability and pain response, facilitating subsequent manual work, mobilization or active rehabilitation.

It’s especially helpful in early or subacute stages, where deeper, focused energy might be uncomfortable or premature. In practices offering high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) or manual therapies, such as myofascial release, RPW adds a neurosensory primer, improving compliance and outcomes.

Respecting manual therapy

Manual soft tissue techniques remain a cornerstone of chiropractic care and for good reason. Techniques such as Active Release Technique, instrument-assisted soft tissue manipulation and pin-and-stretch provide targeted, functional input to soft tissues. However, they are also clinician-intensive, requiring sustained physical effort and advanced training.

RPW offers a supportive adjunct, not a substitute. It allows staff to contribute meaningfully to the care plan and reduces clinician strain, especially in busy practices or practices with repetitive condition types. Applied before manual therapy, RPW can reduce tissue reactivity, making manual work more effective and less taxing.

Patient experience and value perception

RPW is also uniquely aligned with patient psychology. Many patients equate treatment efficacy with sensory engagement; they want to feel the treatment working.^,,

Unlike modalities that are silent or subtle, RPW is highly tactile: It thumps, vibrates and resonates through the muscle, delivering a strong message that therapy is in action. This enhances both compliance and perceived value, especially when out-of-pocket expense is involved.

It becomes a gateway modality for patients unfamiliar with out-of-pocket therapies, helping bridge the gap between traditional visits and regenerative services.

Focused and defocused shockwave: When to progress

There are indeed cases where focused or “defocused” shockwave (with energy concentrated deeper or spread more broadly) may be preferable. For example:

Chronic tendinopathies at greater depth (e.g., proximal hamstring, calcific shoulder tendinitis)
Delayed fracture healing or enthesopathic changes that require more directed energy
Greater depth of penetration for focused; defocused may not have much depth beyond RPW
Plateauing cases that failed RPW or conservative management

In such cases, RPW can act as a first-phase strategy, improving tolerance and reducing reactivity before progressing to higher-energy focused protocols.

Putting it all together: A modern strategy

In daily practice, RPW shines in its ability to enhance outcomes across a variety of care models, particularly in chronic low back pain, a condition with both structural and functional contributors.

Case example: Chronic low back pain with myofascial restriction

A patient presents with long-standing lower back pain, moderate mobility restriction and postural fatigue. Imaging is nonspecific, but clinical assessment reveals gluteal and lumbar paraspinal tension, thoracolumbar fascial tightness and restricted pelvic mobility.

Plan

Initiate RPW therapy once weekly, targeting lumbar paraspinals, gluteus medius and thoracolumbar fascia.
Duration: Three to eight treatments, once weekly.
Lumbar decompression or flexion-distraction therapy to unload/mobilize joints.
Chiropractic adjustments and appropriate exercise therapy for stabilization, symmetry, endurance and range of motion as progression allows.

This example highlights how RPW integrates seamlessly into multi-modal chiropractic care, offering a neurologically active primer before passive decompression, chiropractic adjustments or dynamic rehabilitation work.

Clinical efficiency in the real world

RPW can reduce the need for additional staff time to support out-of-pocket (often referred to as cash-based) care expansion.
Deliverable by trained staff, freeing the doctor for diagnosis, chiropractic adjustments or new patient consults.
Patient-friendly and easy to explain, making it a great intro to modality-based care.
Pairs well with existing standards of care.
Ideal for once-per-week protocols, saving time while maintaining continuity of care.

Final thoughts: The case for radial pressure wave therapy as a first-line tool

Radial pressure wave therapy is not a budget alternative to focused energy. It’s a clinically strategic, neurologically responsive and patient-friendly modality that deserves its place at the front of the conservative care plan.

For DCs navigating busy schedules, physical demands and patient financial realities, RPW offers a combination of efficiency, engagement and evidence. Used with intention, it becomes a bridge between the hands-on approach and increased outcomes while providing an enhanced patient experience.

Christopher M. Proulx, DC, PHD, CSCS, is a doctor of chiropractic and sport scientist with advanced training in clinical neuroscience, exercise physiology and conservative sports medicine. He has authored peer-reviewed articles and lectures nationally on therapeutic technology integration, injury recovery models and evidence-based rehabilitation. In his current clinical practice and his experience as a former Certified Athletic Trainer, he has been involved with the management of sports injuries for more than two decades. Proulx is currently the VP of Clinical Affairs and Strategy for Medray Laser and Technology. He can be reached at chris@medraylaser.com.

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Protected: Issue 14 Exclusive Interview

Allison M. Payne — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 09:46:07 -0400

The post Protected: Issue 14 Exclusive Interview appeared first on Chiropractic Economics.

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Northeast College and UNF Canada create new DC track

Chiropractic Economics Staff — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 17:19:27 -0400

Northeast College of Health Sciences and the University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF) have announced a new educational partnership featuring an articulation agreement that creates streamlined, cost-effective pathways to Northeast’s Doctor of Chiropractic program.

This cross-border collaboration—one of several ways Northeast supports Canadian students, who currently make up 20% of the Seneca Falls, New York-based college’s student body—allows eligible students to join a 4+3 articulation track. Participants can earn a bachelor’s degree from UNF Canada and a Doctor of Chiropractic from Northeast one year faster than they can by completing both degrees separately, while also securing guaranteed admission to Northeast.

Students majoring in UNF’s Honours Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences (HBSc) program or a program of emphasis (POE) are eligible.

Strong support for Canadian students at Northeast

UNF students who are Canadian citizens are also eligible for Northeast’s Canadian Chiropractic Scholarship, one of more than 500 financial awards offered annually. The scholarship is valued at 30% of tuition fees.

“We’re excited to partner with the University of Niagara Falls Canada to expand educational and leadership opportunities that support academic excellence,” said Michael Mestan, DC, EdD, president of Northeast College. “This collaboration highlights our commitment to increasing access to outstanding health sciences degrees for Canadian students. We look forward to welcoming UNF students who are ready to advance their education and become part of the future of healthcare.”

“This agreement reflects our deep commitment to creating meaningful pathways that support student success,” said Lisa Zhuo, director of global engagement and partnerships at UNF. “By partnering with Northeast College of Health Sciences, we’re helping students accelerate their academic goals and fast-track their entry into the healthcare field, where they can start making a difference sooner.”

The agreement was formally signed by David Gray, provost and vice president, academic at UNF, and Amie Redmond, vice president for enrollment management and student affairs at Northeast College. With guided support from both institutions, students can avoid unnecessary coursework and begin their path to Northeast by submitting a letter of intent signed by their undergraduate advisor.

Other recent partnerships

Earlier in July of this year, Northeast College entered into similar partnerships with Stockton University in New Jersey and the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, offering qualified students an accelerated pathway to its doctor of chiropractic degree after completing their undergraduate studies.

About Northeast College of Health Sciences

For more than a century, Northeast College of Health Sciences has been dedicated to training healthcare’s future leaders. At Northeast, health and wellness are our central focus, driving everything we do. The College’s graduate and undergraduate academic programs in areas such as chiropractic, physician assistant studies, nutrition, human anatomy instruction, massage therapy and the imaging sciences are rooted in Northeast’s mission and commitment to academic excellence, leadership and professional best practices. From our 286-acre main campus in New York’s Finger Lakes region and our state-of-the-art branch campus on Long Island to our renowned faculty of expert practitioners, Northeast College provides a transformative educational experience, 100% dedicated to health sciences.

About the University of Niagara Falls Canada

University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF) is an innovative and digitally oriented institution that prepares graduates for leadership in a digital world. This technology-centered approach puts students first, offering a cutting-edge learning framework that is adapted as technology changes and new processes emerge. Students learn from industry leaders and highly experienced faculty, gain experience through work-integrated learning components, and build a solid foundation that sets them on the right path for success in their careers. UNF’s interdisciplinary programs are designed to address the ever-evolving needs of the global workforce today and in the future.

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Integrate structural and neurological approaches to care

Mark Charrette, DC — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 17:07:24 -0400

Chiropractic care has long emphasized spinal alignment as a cornerstone of musculoskeletal health.

Emerging research and clinical insights also reveal the lower extremities, feet, knees and hips play an equally critical role in maintaining structural integrity and neurological balance. This article explores the interplay between structural misalignments, gait mechanics and dysafferentation (abnormal neurological signaling)^1,2and illustrates why neurological approaches and extremity adjustments are not adjuncts but foundational to sustainable chiropractic care.

Structural foundations of lower limb stability

Biomechanics of the foot and gait cycle

The human foot is a marvel of engineering, comprising 26 bones, 33 joints and more than 100 ligaments.^3,4During gait, it transitions from a flexible shock absorber at heel strike to a rigid lever at toe-off. A critical phase is midstance, when the foot bears full body weight. Excessive pronation, a triplanar motion involving eversion, dorsiflexion and abduction, disrupts the medial longitudinal, lateral longitudinal and anterior transverse arches. Over time, repetitive stress (7,000–10,000 daily steps) stretches the plantar fascia and spring ligament, causing plastic deformation. This collapse elongates the foot, flattens the arches and shifts weight distribution, creating a domino effect up the kinetic chain.

Clinical implications

Pelvic tilt: Asymmetrical pronation often correlates with a superior ilium (high hip) on the longer leg side, unleveling the pelvis.
Knee internal rotation: The tibia and femur rotate medially, straining the medial meniscus and ACL.
Hip compensation: Restricted external hip rotation forces the lumbar spine to overcompensate, exacerbating disc and facet joint stress.

Orthotic intervention: Beyond arch support

Functional foot orthotics are not mere arch supports; they are precision tools designed to:

Restore triplanar motion: Control excessive pronation/supination while permitting natural midfoot flexibility.
Optimize ground reaction forces: Redistribute pressure away from overloaded structures (e.g., metatarsal heads).
Enhance proprioception: Stimulate mechanoreceptors in the plantar fascia to improve balance.

Neurological approaches, neurological mechanisms: Dysafferentation and systemic impact

Joint dysfunction and afferent signaling

Joints are rich in mechanoreceptors (Types I–III) and nociceptors (Type IV). Hypomobility from misalignment silences mechanoreceptors, reducing inhibitory signals to the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Concurrently, nociceptors fire excessively, creating a state of dysafferentation—a pathological imbalance in sensory input.^5,6,7

Consequences of dysafferentation

Sympathetic overdrive: Nociceptive surges activate the sympathetic nervous system, elevating cortisol, heart rate and blood pressure.⁸
Central sensitization: Chronic nociception lowers pain thresholds, amplifying perceived discomfort (e.g., allodynia).⁸
Visceral-somatic reflexes: Aberrant signals from extremities can mimic visceral pathologies (e.g., pseudo-angina from T4 dysfunction).

Case study: Resolving chronic low back pain

A 45-year-old marathon runner presented with recurrent lumbar pain, unresponsive to spinal adjustments alone.⁹ Gait analysis revealed severe bilateral pronation and limited hip external rotation (-15° left, -10° right). Treatment included:

Adjustments: Navicular/cuboid mobilization, tibial internal rotation correction and SI joint manipulation
Orthotics: Custom three-arch supports with lateral heel wedges
Rehab: Hip external rotation strengthening and proprioceptive drills
Outcome: 80% pain reduction at six weeks, restored running capacity

Historical evolution, neurological approaches and modern applications of extremity adjusting

From DD Palmer to evidence-based practice

In 1910, DD Palmer asserted, “The chiropractor’s duty is to adjust all displaced bones—vertebral or peripheral.^10,11Yet, for decades, extremity adjusting was overshadowed by spinal-focused paradigms. Recent advances in neurological approaches like, neuroimaging and gait analysis have revived interest in Palmer’s original vision, validating:

Peripheral joints influence spinal health: A pronated foot increases lumbar disc compressive forces by 20%.
Extremity adjustments modulate CNS function: Adjusting a dysfunctional ankle enhances cerebellar processing of balance.^12,13

Innovative techniques for the 21st century

Instrument-assisted adjusting: Drop-table mechanisms and handheld devices improve precision in complex joints (e.g., midfoot).
Dynamic taping: Kinesiology tape complements adjustments by providing proprioceptive feedback without restricting motion.
Sensorimotor retraining: Wobble boards and single-leg stance exercises rewire dysfunctional movement patterns.

Integrative protocols for active patients

Stepwise management of low back pain

Assessment

Static: Pelvic tilt, leg-length discrepancy, arch collapse
Dynamic: Treadmill gait analysis, hip range-of-motion screening

Intervention

Acute phase: Adjustments plus low-dye taping for temporary stabilization
Long-term: Orthotics plus eccentric strengthening (e.g., tibialis posterior)
Prevention: Educate patients on footwear choices and workplace ergonomics.

The role of collaboration

DCs must collaborate with podiatrists, physiotherapists and orthopedists to address multifactorial cases (e.g., congenital tibial torsion or femoral anteversion).

Final thoughts

Chiropractic care must evolve beyond a spinal-centric model to embrace the lower extremities as pivotal structural and neurological health determinants. DCs can resolve compensatory patterns at their source by integrating biomechanical corrections (e.g., orthotics, joint adjustments) with neuromodulatory strategies (e.g., dysafferentation reduction). Future research should explore how extremity-focused protocols impact systemic conditions, such as migraines and fibromyalgia, further solidifying chiropractic’s role in holistic healthcare.

Mark Charrette, DC, is a 1980 summa cum laude graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and a former All-American swimmer. He is a frequent guest speaker at chiropractic colleges and has taught more than 2,200 seminars worldwide on extremity adjusting, biomechanics and spinal adjusting techniques. He has authored a book on extremity adjusting and produced an instructional video series. His lively seminars emphasize a practical, hands-on approach. Learn more at footlevelers.com.

References

Kent C. A four-dimensional model of vertebral aubluxation. Dynamic Chiropr. 2011. https://dynamicchiropractic.com/article/55080-a-four-dimensional-model-of-vertebral-subluxation. Accessed June 21, 2025.
Smith HS, Hou Q. The peripheral muscarinic dysafferentation (PMD) theory of neuropathic pain. Journal of Neuropathic Pain and Symptom Palliation. 2005;1(2):19–26. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/J426v01n02_04. Accessed June 21, 2025.
Basmajian JV, et al. The role of muscles in arch support of the foot. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1963;45:1184-1190. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14077983/ . Accessed June 21, 2025.
Magee DJ. Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 2nd ed. WB Saunders;1992. https://www.elsevier.com/books/orthopedic-physical-assessment/magee/978-1-4557-0977-9. Accessed June 20, 2025.
Hooshmand H. Chronic Pain: Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. CRC Press;1993. extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.rsdinfo.com/RSD-CRPS-Books/Dr._Hooshmand-s_RSD_Text_Book.pdf. Accessed June 20, 2025.
Guyton AC. Basic Neuroscience. 2nd ed. WB Saunders;1991. https://archive.org/details/basicneuroscienc00guyt. Accessed June 20, 2025.
Nansel D, Szlazak M. Somatic dysfunction and visceral disease simulation. J Manip Physiol Ther. 1995;18:379-397. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7595111/ . Accessed June 20, 2025.
Kabell J. Sympathetically Maintained Pain. In: Willis WD (ed). Hyperalgesia and Allodynia. Raven Press;1992. https://search.worldcat.org/title/25284795. Accessed June 20, 2025.
Cambron JA et al. Shoe orthotics for chronic low back pain. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2017;98(9):1752-1762. https://www.archives-pmr.org/article/S0003-9993%2817%2930262-9/pdf. Accessed June 20, 2025.
Palmer DD. The Chiropractor’s Adjustor. Portland Printing House;1910. https://www.bknychiro.com/images/DDPalmer_booklet.pdf. Accessed June 20, 2025.
Palmer DD, Palmer BJ. The Science of Chiropractic. Palmer School;1906. https://search.worldcat.org/title/36930079. Accessed June 20, 2025.
Furman JM, Gallo PG. The Neurophysics of Human Behavior. 2000. https://archive.org/details/neurophysicsofhu0000furm. Accessed June 20, 2025.
Slosberg M. Effects of altered afferent articular input. J Manip Physiol Ther. 1988;11(5):400-408. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3069947/. Accessed June 20, 2025.

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Should you have your own practice app?

Jay S. Greenstein — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 09:56:15 -0400

In the above video, Gloria Hall, editor in chief of Chiropractic Economics, interviews Jay Greenstein, DC, about the following article he wrote for issue 13 of the magazine.

Download the video transcript (PDF)

Real talk on ROI, engagement and growth

Let’s cut through the noise. The question, “Should my practice have its own app?” is showing up more and more in my conversations with DCs around the country. And here’s the truth; it’s not about the app. It’s about the outcome.

A mobile app is just a tool. But when it’s part of a well-executed strategy, it can transform your patient experience, streamline your operations and drive real revenue. The problem is, too many DCs get caught up in the shiny object, or worse, get talked into a solution that isn’t aligned with their needs.

So today, we’re diving deep into the pros and cons of practice apps; no fluff, just strategic insights that will help you make a smart, future-focused decision.

Let’s start with the “why”

You’ve heard me say it before; Simon Sinek nailed it: Start with why. If you don’t know why you’re getting a practice app, you’ve already lost.

Ask yourself:

Are you trying to reduce no-shows?
Do you want better compliance with home exercises?
Is patient communication breaking down?
Are you looking to increase your revenue per patient?
Are your staff members drowning in admin tasks?

If you’re clear on your “why,” you’re ready to evaluate the “how.” And that’s where the right mobile app comes into play.

The big wins of a branded mobile app

Patient engagement and adherence: From passive to empowered

Here’s the deal: Engaged patients are better patients. And the data backs it up. In multiple studies app users stuck to their plans more consistently and completed more visits than non-users.^1,2 Why? Because they were activated with behavioral economics in a place they always live…on their phones.

With push notifications, in-app reminders and gamified goal tracking, patients stay accountable. Home exercise programs (HEPs) become interactive instead of printouts that end up under the couch. When patients are seeing progress on their phones, they’re more likely to stick with care; and that means better outcomes and better revenue.

Operational efficiency: Streamlining, not siloing

Let’s talk about the front desk. Automated appointment reminders, rescheduling, digital intake; these are admin tasks that can (and should) be automated. Your staff didn’t sign up for endless phone calls and paper-chasing. They want to help people.

Integrated apps can offload hours of work each week. Syncing with your electronic health record (EHR) or practice management system ensures workflows stay tight and centralized. The result? Less burnout, fewer errors and more time for high-value interactions.

Retention and branding: Keep your clinic top of mind

Your app is a digital handshake. It’s your brand in your patient’s pocket 24/7. Push notifications become engagement nudges. Easy access to value-added services, such as dry needling, cupping or massage therapy keeps patients coming back. Loyalty rewards turn visits into habits.

Retention isn’t about luck; it’s about building systems that keep you relevant between visits. A well-branded app reinforces your practice’s identity and makes every patient feel like they’re part of something bigger.

Revenue generation: Direct and indirect gains

Let’s talk dollars. There are two ways apps can grow your revenue:

Direct: Sell wellness plans, offer virtual consults, promote products and bill for remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM).

Indirect: Boost care-plan adherence, reduce no-shows, improve retention; all of which increase lifetime patient value.

And importantly, RTM isn’t just a billing code. It’s a strategy that lets you get paid for delivering better care outside the clinic.

Now, let’s talk about the challenges

Not everything is sunshine and scalability. There are real barriers here, and you need to understand them before diving in.

Development, setup and maintenance costs

Even white-label apps require upfront investment, customization and ongoing support. Expect to pay for updates, integration with your systems and customer support. This isn’t a “buy it and forget it” kind of deal. It’s a business asset, and it needs to be treated like one.

The return on investment (ROI) is there if you activate it with intention. But if you’re not willing to market it to patients or train your staff on it, don’t waste the money.

Patient adoption is not automatic

We’ve all heard it: “My patients don’t want to download another app.” But here’s the truth: Patients don’t want to download another bad app. If the experience is clunky, the value isn’t obvious or it crashes; yeah, they’ll delete it in a heartbeat.

That’s why onboarding and user experience (UX) design matter. You have to demonstrate value in the first 60 seconds. In-app videos, gamification, rewards; those elements increase stickiness and retention.

Team buy-in: The silent dealbreaker

Even the best tool will fail if your team doesn’t buy in. Staff need to see how it makes their lives easier, not harder. Training is essential. So is leadership.

If you roll out a new app without a clear internal strategy, expect resistance. But if you bring your team into the vision, show them the wins and track the metrics, they’ll become your biggest champions.

Data security and compliance

This one’s not negotiable. You’re dealing with protected health information. Your app must be HIPAA-compliant, encrypted and built on secure infrastructure. A data breach can cost more than money; it can tank your brand.

So, vet your vendors. Get the compliance documentation. Make security a core part of your evaluation process.

Questions every DC should ask

Before you go shopping for app vendors or start building your own, stop and reflect on these questions:

What’s the specific problem I’m trying to solve?
Is my team equipped and willing to implement this?
Will my patient demographic respond to this solution?
Do I have the systems in place to track success metrics?
Do I have the vision to invest in digital health technology to support, promote and maintain a long-term digital health strategy?

Bottom line: Tech that aligns with strategy wins

Having a practice app isn’t the goal. Creating better outcomes, streamlined systems and sustainable growth is the goal. An app is just one lever in your toolbox. Aligned with purpose and powered by strategy, it can, and will, completely transform your business.

Jay Greenstein, DC, is the founder and CEO of EMBODI, a remote therapeutic monitoring platform for DCs. EMBODI helps improve treatment adherence and outcomes and increase practice income through its proprietary, patented technology. The mission of the company is to be the worldwide digital health leader for chiropractic. Greenstein is also the CEO of the Kaizo Health Group, a multi-location chiropractic practice, fitness company and clinical research institute in the Washington, D.C., region. For more information, contact drjay@kaizo-health.com.

References

1. Greenstein J, et al. Effectiveness of a mobile health app for improving adherence to care plan in patients with musculoskeletal conditions. JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies. 2021;8(4):e31213. https://rehab.jmir.org/2021/4/e31213/. Accessed June 18, 2025.

2. Topp R, et al. The effect of a mobile health app on treatment adherence and revenue at physical health clinics: Retrospective record review. JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies. 2023;10:e43507. https://doi.org/10.2196/43507. Accessed June 18, 2025.

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Case study: Chronic neck pain in a 54-year-old truck driver

RheeGen Staff — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 17:02:14 -0400

This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating stem cell therapy, shockwave therapy and chiropractic care for cervical pathology.

It illustrates how this integrated approach helped a patient with chronic neck pain experience substantial pain relief and functional recovery without the need for surgery or invasive procedures.

Patient background

The patient, a 54-year-old male truck driver, presented with chronic neck pain that had persisted for more than 10 years. As a father of four who enjoys playing baseball with his sons, he found himself sidelined due to debilitating pain. Simple tasks, such as turning his head to back up his truck or swinging a bat had become unbearable.

The patient had previously tried various treatments, including painkillers, therapy, stretching and heat applications, with little to no lasting relief. Chiropractic adjustments provided only temporary relief, lasting no more than a few days. His cervical pain radiated into his head and down his arms and hands, significantly affecting his quality of life, including sleep and daily activities. Frustrated with the ongoing pain, he had even considered neck surgery or pain injections.

Initial examination and diagnosis

Upon evaluation, the patient exhibited a 70% reduction in cervical range of motion (ROM) in all directions. Clinical tests revealed:

Soto Hall Test and Cervical Compression: Positive for pain
Cervical Distraction Test: Positive for pain relief
Neurological findings: Decreased C2 dermatome sensation on the left side

X-ray findings from 9/19/2024:

Grade 2 anterolisthesis of C2 on C3 was noted disturbing George’s line. (Image 1)
Other findings not noted in this study

The patient was diagnosed with cervical disc degeneration and spinal sprain. He had previously been told by other doctors that surgery was his only remaining option.

Treatment plan

We recommended a combination approach, including:

RheeGen stem cell therapy (daily topical application for 30 days)
Shockwave therapy (once per week for four weeks)
Chiropractic spinal care (three times per week)

This treatment plan was chosen due to its ease of application, lack of downtime and ability to help the patient regain function quickly.

Results after 30 days

Following one month of treatment, the patient showed significant improvement:

Cervical ROM: Improved by 50%
Soto Hall and Cervical Compression Tests: Now negative
Neurological findings: Improved C5 dermatome sensation on the left side

X-ray findings from 1/23/2025:

Grade 1 anterolisthesis of C2 on C3. An overall improvement of 50%. Indicating healing of the ligaments of that segment. (Image 2)
Other findings not noted in this study

Image 1 Image 2

Patient testimonial

“I noticed a significant reduction in pain within the first two to three applications of RheeGen. My pain went from an unbearable 10/10 to barely noticeable, except during exaggerated movements, within the first two weeks. I feel like I got my life back. Today, the pain is mostly gone, and I can turn my head without discomfort. I can finally play baseball with my boys again and look forward to the new season. If I had known about this treatment earlier, I would have tried it first!”

Conclusion

This case highlights the effectiveness of RheeGen stem cell therapy in conjunction with shockwave therapy and chiropractic care for cervical pathology. The patient showed C2-C3 spondylolisthesis improvement from Grade 2 to Grade 1 indicating the stability of above-mentioned ligament sprain improvement. The patient, who had previously exhausted other treatment options, experienced substantial pain relief and functional recovery—without surgery or invasive procedures.

This case study was conducted by:

Dr. Fred Woods

Back On Track Chiropractic

6888 Goodman Rd STE 113

Olive Branch, MS, 38654

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From catching waves to catching flights—back pain doesn’t care where you are.

The Joint Chiropractic — Sat, 02 Aug 2025 21:39:59 -0400

Running in this heat? No joke!

The Joint Chiropractic — Sat, 02 Aug 2025 20:06:30 -0400

Caregiver, Student, Kidney Donor. Karina Found Relief She Could Afford.

The Joint Chiropractic — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 19:23:17 -0400

CUKC adds Chiropractic Career Fair to ACE 2025

Chiropractic Economics Staff — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:26:17 -0400

Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) has announced an addition to its 2025 Annual Conference and Expo (ACE): the Chiropractic Career Fair, scheduled for Thursday, September 11, on the CUKC campus in Overland Park, Kansas.

“This is a convenient, tremendous opportunity for DCs attending ACE to meet and recruit some of our incredibly talented students,” said Leslie Gasser, CUKC Senior Director of Alumni Engagement and Advancement. “With only 30 booths available, we expect them to go quickly.”

There is no cost to participate, Gasser said, and practicing DCs seeking to hire associates are encouraged to reserve their place as soon as possible. They can bring recruitment materials, including position descriptions and helpful information about their practice focus and its location.

To reserve a free booth at the Chiropractic Career Fair, contact Leslie Gasser: leslie.gasser@cleveland.edu.

More about the Annual Conference and Expo (ACE), September 11-13

Held at the Sheraton Overland Park Hotel (adjacent to the Overland Park Convention Center), the 2025 CUKC Annual Conference and Expo offers up to 20 CEUs, advanced sessions for chiropractic assistants and office staff, and networking with professionals from across the country.

This year’s plenary speaker is Sherry McAllister, DC, president of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP), presenting “Building on the Lifestyle of Chiropractic: Live It, Love It, Teach It.”

She is joined by a lineup of 26 presenters. Sessions will cover the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the future of chiropractic, as well as topics including pregnancy, pediatrics, technique, sports performance, posture, business operations, regulatory compliance and more.

This year’s conference schedule also features a special four-hour chiropractic assistant track. It’s a learning journey for your staff, designed to teach chiropractic office professionals the most up-to-date techniques and communication strategies for generating more referrals, collections and patient compliance.

Cleveland University-Kansas City and Cleveland Chiropractic College alumni can also look forward to a happy hour reunion on Friday, September 12.

Gasser said this event would feature special recognition for the 25-year and 50-year reunion classes, as well as some surprise visits from favorite past professors and staff.

Additionally, attendees who register for ACE 2025 by August 15 can unlock bonus CE content from renowned DC and neurophysiologist Heidi Haavik. This exclusive one-hour CE course is available only to these early registrants.

The list of presenters for the CUKC 2025 Annual Conference and Expo:

Steve Agocs, DC
Edwin Cordero, DC, FICA
Shane Davidson, DC
Terry Elder, DC
Ashley Emel, DC
Danielle Eaton, DC, CCSP
Ron Farabaugh, DC
Christine Foss, MD, DC, MSED, ATC, DACBSP, DACRB, ICSC
Kristi Hudson
Jason Jaeger, DC
Paul Jaskoviak, DC, DCRC, DACAN, CCSP, FICC
Brandie Keates, DC
Kim Klapp
Robert Leach, DC
Mitchell Ludwig, DC
Mitch Mally, DC
Sherry McAllister, DC
Sonia McGowin, DC
Stuart McIntosh, DC
Branon McMichael, DC
Jon Petrick, DC
Ian Shtulman, DC, DACCP
Aaron Smith, DC
Ty Talcott, DC, CHPSE
Michelle Wesely, DC, CFMP

Registration for attendees and exhibitors for ACE 2025 is available online at ace.smartchoicece.com. Three-day ($349), two-day ($279) and one-day ($139) registrations are available.

About Cleveland University – Kansas City

Founded in 1922, Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) in Overland Park, Kansas, is an independent, nonprofit, regionally accredited institution of higher education. Through the College of Chiropractic and the College of Health Sciences, the institution fulfills an ongoing mission to educate and develop leaders in health promotion. CUKC has approximately 11,600 chiropractic alumni throughout the US and internationally. The on-campus CUKC Chiropractic Health Center serves the public with nearly 30,000 visits annually. To learn more about CUKC, visit cleveland.edu.

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The Day 1 BPA System That Closes $7K+ Treatment Plans Without You in the Room | Free Webinar

Tyler Mikson — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 14:47:30 -0400

Sponsor: Blueprint to Practice Automation

Speaker: DR. BLAIN KINGSBURY, DC

On this webinar, you will:

In this powerful, no-cost masterclass, you’ll get access to BPA’s AI Day 1 Testing Simulator, along with the exact four-step Day 1 framework and high-converting scripts used by more than 3,000 clinics to lead with confidence, uncover the patient’s motivation, and set the stage for $7,000+ care plan acceptance, without needing the doctor to handle every step.

The post The Day 1 BPA System That Closes $7K+ Treatment Plans Without You in the Room | Free Webinar appeared first on Chiropractic Economics.

Boosting Patient Loyalty: Effective Ideas for Committed Chiropractic Care | Live Webinar

Tyler Mikson — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 10:23:07 -0400

Sponsor: Summus Medical

Speaker:

Gregory Lewis, DC Executive Director, Doctor of Chiropractic of Lewis Family Chiropractic in Westminster, MD

About the webinar:

✅How you can attract new patients into your practice

✅Making your patients feel welcome

✅Giving proper examination and diagnosis

✅Exploring the best treatment plans with your patients

✅Becoming a trusted advisor when it comes to your patients’ care

Register now while spots are available!

or click the link to sign up: Boosting Patient Loyalty: Effective Ideas for Committed Chiropractic Care

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Parker University massage therapists work with UFL teams

Chiropractic Economics Staff — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 09:44:47 -0400

The Parker University Massage Therapy program has an Athletic Recovery Massage team that recently completed its inaugural season working with two United Football League (UFL) teams.

San Antonio Brahmas and Arlington Renegades players were the recipients of weekly recovery massage sessions provided by the Parker University School of Massage Therapy Alumni and staff.

How Parker University massage therapy graduates work with athletes

Upon completing the program, Parker University Massage Therapy alumni have the opportunity to work with professional athletes.  Parker University is also a supporter of the Dallas Cowboys and a sponsor of the Texoma Football Club.

During their time obtaining a massage therapy certificate through Parker University, students learn how the power of touch transforms lives by relieving pain, reducing stress and promoting overall well-being. Small on-campus class sizes, diverse techniques and exclusive internships prepare students for seamless entry into the field. With a balanced approach to wellness, students develop these vital skills while acquiring the business knowledge necessary to launch a well-rounded, successful career. This certificate program is also offered in a dual-language format (Spanish and English), making it accessible to even more future massage therapists.

“The Parker University Alumni Athletic Massage Team is proud to have completed the 2025 UFL season working with the San Antonio Brahmas and the Arlington Renegades. This was an amazing opportunity for our Massage Therapy Alumni,” said Parker University Massage Therapy Program Director Gregory May. “Special thanks to Sam Lopez, the Assistant Athletic Trainer of the Brahmas, and Dr. Mike Walker, the Athletic Trainer for the Renegades, for helping us provide the recovery sessions to allow these athletes to perform optimally. We look forward to growing alongside the UFL, continuing our affiliations, expanding our services and reaching even more UFL teams next season.”

To learn more about the UFL or any of its teams, go to theufl.com.

About Parker University

Parker University, the fastest-growing college in Dallas and the fourth-fastest-growing in Texas, was founded in 1982 by Dr. James William Parker as Parker College of Chiropractic. Today, the university serves over 2,300 students and offers more than 25 accredited academic programs and certificates, including its flagship Doctor of Chiropractic program, which is home to the second-largest chiropractic cohort in the world. Parker University also leads in innovation with master’s degrees in Clinical Neuroscience,  Strength and Human Performance, and Functional Nutrition. Recently, Parker University launched its new Human Performance Center, led by Andy Galpin. Additionally, five new board-approved programs are set to launch soon.

The post Parker University massage therapists work with UFL teams appeared first on Chiropractic Economics.

We love hearing this!

The Joint Chiropractic — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 02:12:45 -0400

How to become a concierge chiropractor

Marty Kotlar, DC — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:19:21 -0400

As chiropractic care continues to evolve toward a more personalized and patient-focused model, concierge services are gaining traction. This shift has led to the emergence of a specialized role within the profession: the concierge chiropractor.

This approach to care prioritizes convenience, high-quality service and direct patient access for a set fee. It can present a financially rewarding opportunity; whether you’re enhancing an existing practice or launching a new one.

A concierge chiropractic practice typically focuses on fewer patients and provides more in-depth, personalized care. Services are typically offered via membership or pay-per-visit model.

Concierge chiropractic services may include:

Exclusive member access: Patients receive priority communication through direct phone, text or email contact.

Preventive and wellness support: Services may encompass lifestyle counseling, wellness plans and comprehensive functional assessments.

Home care: Services can be provided at the patient’s home or workplace for added convenience.

Flexible appointments: Visits may be offered outside of traditional office hours to accommodate individual needs.

Before transitioning to a concierge model, take time to reflect on the services you’re most passionate about and your preferred style of care delivery. For instance, some DCs choose to focus on specific populations, such as professional athletes, corporate professionals or pediatric patients. Will your primary emphasis be on rehabilitation, preventative care or overall wellness? Clearly identifying your niche will not only strengthen your brand and marketing strategy but also help you build a loyal, like-minded patient base.

Items to consider prior to starting a concierge practice:

Membership agreements: Patients commit to paying an annual membership fee, which may range from $500 to $10,000. Some agreements may also include additional monthly fees, along with any applicable co-payments and deductibles. It’s important to note that some patients may prefer or need to rely solely on their insurance due to financial constraints. To ensure full understanding and avoid any contractual issues, patients should carefully review the terms of the agreement before enrollment.

Insurance and legal compliance: It’s essential your membership agreement does not resemble an insurance contract or conflict with the anti-kickback statute. To ensure legal compliance and alignment with your scope of practice, consult an attorney experienced in concierge chiropractic care to draft your patient agreement. Some states permit concierge services without explicitly advertising it; something you may not be aware of.

Medicare: Providers may offer concierge services to Medicare beneficiaries, provided they adhere strictly to federal guidelines. The key requirement is Medicare patients cannot be charged additional fees for services already covered under the program. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) has issued an alert addressing concerns about physicians imposing extra charges for covered services.

Abandonment considerations: When transitioning to a concierge model, it’s important to carefully manage how this change is communicated to your existing patient base. Not all patients may choose to enroll in your new membership structure. To avoid claims of patient abandonment, provide clear and timely notice of your practice transition, along with sufficient time for patients to seek alternative care if they choose. Be sure to review your state’s regulations regarding patient abandonment to ensure full compliance during this process.

Final thoughts

Transitioning to a concierge model can be a highly rewarding path, offering the potential for increased profitability, improved work-life balance and reduced administrative workload. It also allows for more meaningful, focused time with each patient, ultimately enhancing the quality of care you provide.

MARTY KOTLAR, DC, CPCO, CBCS, is the president of Target Coding. Over the last 15 years, Target Coding has helped hundreds of healthcare providers with compliance as it relates to billing, coding, documentation, Medicare and HIPAA. Kotlar is certified in compliance, a certified coding specialist, a contributing author to many coding and compliance publications and a guest speaker at many state association conventions. He can be reached at 800-270-7044, targetcoding.com or drkotlar@targetcoding.com.

The post How to become a concierge chiropractor appeared first on Chiropractic Economics.

When your chiropractor takes a "hands-on" approach a little too literally...

The Joint Chiropractic — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 20:09:56 -0400

A Detoxifying Sequence for Digestive Health

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 20:19:14 -0500

Try this simple, detoxifying sequence for digestive health to feel grounded, supported, and comfortable inside out.

We often feel stress this time of year. Instead of letting worry and anxiety get the best of you, take a deep breath and roll out your yoga mat. In just a few minutes, you can rebalance your energy and strengthen your body’s healthy inflammatory response.

Try this simple, detoxifying sequence for digestive health to feel grounded, supported, and comfortable inside out.

Product Review: Cliganic Organic Eucalyptus Oil

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 02:19:12 -0500

This essential oil can perk up your mood and help you breathe easy

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Yoga Journal Review

Step aside, coffee. Inhaling a few whiffs of Cliganic Eucalyptus Oil has become our new mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Native to Australia, eucalyptus trees are now grown all over the world (Cliganic sources their eucalyptus from India, where farming the trees creates employment in rural areas). The tree’s oval-shaped leaves produce the distinctive-smelling essential oil, which has a number of healing powers. Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol and alpha-terpineol, compounds that, when inhaled, can open airways, calm a cough, and loosen chest congestion. Research shows it can also soothe sore muscles, freshen breath, and combat stress.

Our tester liked that Cliganic Eucalyptus Oil was gently energizing but not overpowering. She found that adding a few drops to a diffuser near her desk helped her feel re-energized when her energy started to flag in the afternoon.

She also added a few drops to a carrier oil in the morning and massaged it on her temples before meditating. “It was a lovely way to wake up and begin the day.”

View the original article to see embedded media.

Yoga Journal Reader Reviews

The Eucalyptus oil has a pleasant, slightly minty and spicy fragrance. I used it as a scalp treatment by blending a few drops with rosehip oil and working it into the roots of my hair and scalp. The essential oil was carried into the steam of the shower and became a refreshing aromatherapy treatment. For the price it is a great quality and comparable to more expensive oils I’ve used. - Mary D.

Just one whiff of the minty, menthol-like aroma opens my sinuses. When I have a stuffy nose, I like to add a drop or two to a sink full of steaming hot water, drape a towel over my head, and breathe in the vapor for a few minutes. The scent reminds me of the smell of my favorite spa: soothing, fresh, and invigorating. - Nora W.

Target Your Obliques With These 3 Yoga Poses

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 07:19:08 -0500

Try these side body-centric poses to refine your asana practice and deepen your core connection

When we think of our cores, our obliques aren’t typically the first set of muscles that spring to mind—rectus abdominus, aka six-pack, I’m looking at you. However, your obliques muscles are key in many yoga postures and daily life moves. After all, they stabilize your spine when you rotate your torso and pelvis.

Located on either side of your rectus abdominus, your thin yet powerful external obliques run diagonally from your ribs to your rectus abdominus. Your external obliques are situated just below, perpendicular to your external obliques.

In asana practice, challenging poses like Parivrtta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle Pose) engage your obliques, as do more grounded poses like Jathara Parivartanasana (Revolved Abdomen Pose). Off of your yoga mat, you use these muscles when you throw a ball (your obliques pull your shoulder around.) And when you kick a ball, your obliques rotate your pelvis. Your obliques are in play when you strength train as well: they help stabilize your vertebrae to maintain spinal alignment when you lift a heavy weight.

As you move through these three yoga poses, use the cues provided to focus on your oblique muscles in each shape. Bring the awareness you cultivate into your next longer yoga practice, and with you into day to day life, and feel your connection to your center deepen.

4 Steps to Help Manage Overwhelming Emotions

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 06:19:18 -0500

Ways to stay calm and grounded during unpredictable times.

This challenging year has depleted our emotional well-being in unpredictable ways. During times like these, failing to remember our innate unbreakable wholeness—and its qualities of indestructible joy and peace—can cause us to over-identify with our emotional responses. Our egos may translate physical illness, emotional trauma, or even day-to-day challenges as “something’s wrong with me.”

Are you clinging to what “should be” rather than what is?

Tense? Scattered? Struggling to find balance ? Well, we don’t have to list the ways we’re all struggling to cope with an unprecedented year. If you’re seeking joy and peace amidst the challenges, join Richard Miller—psychologist, yoga therapist, and founder of the iRest institute—for a four-week program that will help you transform emotional turmoil into enduring resilience and an unbreakable sense of well-being. Learn more and register today.

Perhaps your neighbor keeps turning down your invitations for a socially distanced walk. You might feel angry and rejected and interpret their unavailability as “I’m not worth their time.” In reality, they may be stuck in endless Zoom meetings or dealing with family obligations.

Welcoming and mindfully responding to your emotions can help you see that your inner wisdom, wholeness, and well-being are always close at hand. This is the unbreakable promise that yoga offers us all. The next time a challenge arises, follow these five steps to help break the cycle of assumptions.

1. Welcome Sensations as Messengers

We experience feelings as sensations in our bodies and minds, such as a tight belly, a pounding heartbeat, or agitating thoughts. Pausing and tuning in to these sensations can help you identify your emotions. For example, if your muscles tense when your friend says they can’t meet up, notice and accept the sensation as a sign that their actions upset you.

2. Develop Your Witness Consciousness

Witness the sensations and the stories you might be creating around them. Inquire, “What is the underlying expectation or belief that’s giving rise to this emotion?” Witnessing and accepting your emotions helps you disentangle from them, break free of conditioned reactions, and grow your capacity for compassion toward yourself and others.

3. Create Calm

No matter which emotion is present, realize that there’s nothing inherently wrong with you. Tap into the somatic sensations you associate with peace, such as slowing and steadying your breath or grounding your palms on your abdomen or chest. Notice how your feelings transform and how you are more connected to yourself and to what life is asking of you.

4. Release Unrealistic Expectations

Clinging to narratives about how things “should be” leads to suffering and prevents you from recognizing new information, such as the fears and challenges your friend might be dealing with. By seeing their situation more clearly, your feelings may soften, and you might be able to talk things out with them and together find a supportive solution.

5. Try This Brief Meditation

From a seated or lying position, open your senses to the environment around you. Feel the air on your skin and where your body is in contact with the chair or ground. Witness emotions that arise and how they show up as sensations. Welcome them just as they are.

Then, set your attention free. Feel yourself everywhere and nowhere, a spacious presence that expands in all directions. Gently inquire, “Is there some action I am being asked to take that will enable me to feel authentic and harmonious within myself and in my life?” Listen for the inner voice that whispers its answer to you. Welcome the wisdom that has been sent from beyond.

Seeking more emotional support and practices that help guide you toward balance and peace? Start Richard’s four-week program today!

The Best Ways to Use Rosehip Oil

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 15:19:09 -0500

Here’s how to utilize rosehip oil to get the most benefits out of this extract.

Rosehip oil is a highly versatile extract derived from pressing the fruit and seeds of the rose plant. With uses ranging from skincare to boosting the immune system, we explain all the different ways that rosehip oil can help your body and how to apply it.

Cliganic 100% Pure Organic Rosehip Oil

Hydrate Sensitive Skin

Rosehip oil is naturally rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamins A and C—all of which are excellent for hydration. The linoleic, linolenic, palmitic, and other essential fatty acids contained within rosehip oil strengthen the cell walls and stabilize the cell membranes, keeping water in. When you place a few drops of rosehip oil on your hand and rub it into target areas, over time, the result is naturally plump, smooth, and glowing skin.

Try Cliganic 100% Pure Organic Rosehip Oil.

Teddie Organics Organic Rosehip Oil

Freshen Up the Face

The antioxidants in rosehip oil shine when it comes to treating acne, dark circles under the eyes, and fine lines and wrinkles from aging. It contains vitamins A, C, and E, which are powerful antioxidants that can penetrate the skin to reduce redness and inflammation. The vitamins fend off damage from free radicals and sun exposure while balancing the production of oils on your face. To apply, simply rub in a few drops on target areas.

Try Teddie Organics Organic Rosehip Oil.

Kosmea Organic Rosehip Oil

Boost Your Immune System

Hydration isn’t the only benefit to having stronger cell membranes. The polyunsaturated essential fatty acids like linoleic acid in rosehip oil prevent the breakdown of cell membranes, keeping bacteria out. Plus, the vitamin C helps encourage the production of white blood cells which protect the body from infection. Rosehip oil absorbs quickly into the skin, so any application of it will provide the immune-boosting benefits.

Try Kosmea Organic Rosehip Oil.

Radha Rosehip Oil

Heal Your Hair

Rosehip oil acts as a natural conditioner for hair and the essential fatty acids and antioxidants within it can heal hair follicles, moisturize hair, nourish thinning hair, and even help with hair loss. It’s non-greasy and treats dandruff, comforting dry scalps. To apply, squirt a pipette directly into your hair or palm and rub it in gently.

Try Radha Rosehip Oil.

Now Organic Rosehip Seed Oil

Enhance Relaxation

Beyond all of the health benefits to rosehip oil, it’s no secret that it smells good, too. Adding a few drops into your bathwater or essential oil diffuser can add a pleasant aroma to your space, helping you to unwind after a stressful day.

Try Now Organic Rosehip Seed Oil.

We independently source all of the products that we feature on yogajournal.com. If you buy from the links on our site, we may receive an affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.

Holistic Hamstrings: Poses to Stretch and Strengthen These Key Muscles

Sat, 05 Dec 2020 08:19:16 -0500

Try this yoga sequence to elongate, strengthen, stabilize, and balance the backs of your legs

We work with our hamstrings a lot in yoga, oftentimes focusing quite intently on stretching these muscles. But healthy hamstrings aren’t just flexible—they’re strong and nimble too. After all, these muscles are key for everyday activities, such as walking and squatting. This sequence offers a variety of hamstring moves. Yes, there are plenty of stretches, but you’ll also work on your stability and balance, strengthening your hamstrings and, eventually, relaxing them.

Pro tip: in the poses that offer a stretch, focus the stretch on the belly of the muscle rather than at the attachments (your hamstring attachment points are at the knees and sitting bones). If you feel pulling in either of these areas, back off by bending your knees slightly and engaging your core a bit more diligently.

Foundation Awards Funds to Yoga Teachers in Marginalized Communities

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 02:19:31 -0500

The Yoga Alliance Foundation launches a new program to support teachers bringing yoga to historically marginalized communities.

The Yoga Alliance Foundation is introducing a second phase to their emergency fund for yoga teachers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dubbed the “Eka Recovery Fund,“ its pilot program, Teaching for Equity—in partnership with the nonprofit Ivy Child International—will place stipends directly in the hands of yoga teachers around the world, who are bringing yoga to historically marginalized communities.

All yoga professionals in financial need with at least two years of experience teaching in communities that have traditionally faced barriers to access are eligible to apply or be nominated for the program, through December 18th, 2020. “This program is meant to amplify and celebrate the expertise of people who have dedicated years of their lives to yoga outreach and service. We want to be a force of support for yoga professionals throughout the world,” says Kristina Graff, Managing Director of the Yoga Alliance Foundation. “We’re humbled by what they do and are honored to be a part of it.”

The Teaching for Equity pilot is based on a program model created by Maya Breuer, the Yoga Alliance Vice President of Cross-Cultural Advancement, who has been working at the intersection of yoga and community outreach for decades. Breuer saw that teachers offering yoga in marginalized communities needed support, and that funding these teachers would allow them to continue their work in these communities.

In addition to providing immediate financial relief, Breuer sees the Eka Recovery Fund as a long-term agent of change. “This has been a long road, and we had to take a step back and ask How do we invest in recovery? This program is for the aftermath of COVID-19 and everything that follows,” Breuer says.

Breuer, who managed to breathe life into the program when she brought it to Graff, sees a two-pronged approach to recovery: financial stability and mentorship. “We are starting with people who have experience teaching in historically marginalized communities, and in the future we would like to encourage other teachers to begin offering classes in these communities,” Breuer says. “If we support teachers working in communities that have faced barriers to yoga access, we’re helping the teacher and the community. This program helps bring yoga to people where they are,” Graff says.

Breuer maintains that Yoga Alliance and the Yoga Alliance Foundation are committed to equity in yoga. That is why Teaching for Equity has a diverse advisory committee of people who represent different lived experiences who consult on questions of access and outreach. The goal is to encourage people from a variety of backgrounds to practice yoga, and to support the teachers who are already trusted members of underserved communities. “We want to shine a light on the disparities and lack of inclusion” Breuer says.

Graff Agrees. “The program comes in response to what we heard from the community for what was needed,” she says. “COVID-19 is the current crisis, and the crisis is worse in historically marginalized communities.

Ivy Child International has many years of experience with grassroots organizations across the world. They will serve as the administrative arm for the selection of teachers and awarding of program stipends. The amount of the stipend will be adjusted based on the GDP of the country in which the awardee lives or teaches.

“This program is for any yoga professional, it’s not limited to Yoga Alliance members. We want to engage the full yoga community, worldwide” Graff says.

To apply for the program, nominate an impactful teacher, or make a donation to the Eka Recovery Fund, click here.

David Lynch Wants to Make Meditation Free for 300 Million Americans

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 18:19:04 -0500

The inagurual “Meditate America” campaign kicks off December 3 with a free virtual benefit concert and fundraiser featuring a star-studded lineup.

As the coronavirus pandemic rages on, the mounting collective stress and trauma in the nation was the impetus for Meditate America, a new campaign led by the David Lynch Foundation for Consciousness-Based Education and World Peace bringing free meditation to at-risk populations.

When asked what inspired the cause, David Lynch unambiguously replied, “Take a look at America today.”

David Lynch

Meditate America launches December 3 with a free virtual benefit concert streamed on YouTube featuring pre-recorded performances by Elvis Costello, Angelique Kidjo, Kesha, Sting, the Brooklyn Youth Chorus, and others, including live talks with media personalities, and an interview with Hugh Jackman and Katy Perry on meditation and motherhood. The fundraising event will draw awareness and support for the initiative that aims to make meditation free to anyone in America who needs it.

The campaign is part of the David Lynch Foundation’s ongoing efforts to provide the Transcendental Meditation ™ technique to at-risk groups experiencing stress and trauma. Founded in 2005 by the acclaimed filmmaker and avid meditator who bears its name, the David Lynch Foundation has already offered free meditation to 1 million students in underserved schools in 35 countries, as well as thousands of veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and their families, and survivors of domestic violence.

The new initiative will focus on the effects of pandemic-related stress and trauma on healthcare and essential workers on the COVID-19 frontlines, as well as families in underserved communities living in hard hit areas where hospitals are underfunded, and once again, overwhelmed as virus cases continue to rise. Meditate America will also continue to serve veterans at-risk for depression and suicide during the pandemic.

The State of the Nation’s Mental Health

A recent CDC report detailing the impact of COVID-19 on mental health in the country showed that at least 40 percent of adults struggle with substance abuse and mental health issues, with 31 percent experiencing anxiety or depression and nearly 11 percent considering suicide. Some experts have already warned of a potential for long-term psychological effects.

Meditate America’s goal to serve demographics that currently reflect nearly half the U.S. population may seem lofty, but Bob Roth, CEO of the David Lynch Foundation, says he has no doubt the campaign will be a success. Though the virtual benefit concert is free, Roth says donations supporting the cause are already rolling in.

“We just wanted to give the country something wonderful to think about and celebrate,” Roth said by phone. “And meditation is the counter-opposite to absolutely everything that’s going on in the country today, which is fear and anxiety.”

Roth says the production costs were covered by donors and explains that other campaigns led by the foundation are often subsidized by the generosity of the TM community, which includes a growing roster of celebrities. “It’s all very grassroots,” Roth says. He explains that the Starbucks Foundation, for instance, recently provided the David Lynch Foundation with a $250,000 grant to offer free TM to healthcare workers in underfunded hospitals as part of the foundation’s “Heal the Healers Now” campaign, which launched in April in response to the rising rates of physician burnout.

The Beatles and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, founder of TM

Why Make Transcendental Meditation Free?

Transcendental Meditation is a trademarked meditation technique developed by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the mid-1950s and famously adopted by The Beatles. The evidence-based practice involves sitting and silently reciting a mantra to yourself for 20 minutes twice a day. The popularity of TM can be attributed to its simplicity and accessibility for most adults and children, including those with ADHD. “It gives the body a profound state of rest and relaxation and a different constellation of changes take place in the body,” Roth says.

See also The Science Behind a Mantra

The average cost of initiation for TM ranges from $500–$1,000, which is why the David Lynch Foundation remains committed to providing it for free.

Meditate America is garnering support to fund rigorous scientific research on the efficacy of the Transcendental Meditation technique. Most studies to date have been small in scale. If successfully funded, Meditate America plans to conduct large-scale studies and clinical trials on the scientifically proven benefits of TM for healing trauma, reducing high blood pressure and the risk of heart disease and stroke, and reducing anxiety and depression.

By completing large-scale phase III clinical trials, TM could potentially qualify as a medical intervention covered by public and private insurance companies. This would make the TM technique free for anyone in the U.S. with insurance, as many as 300 million Americans according to the David Lynch Foundation. “The whole country is at risk,” says Roth. “The whole country is traumatized.”

Roth, a respected leader in the Transcendental Meditation community with 48 years of experience teaching the technique, says the world is changing and it won’t be long before alternative healing modalities like TM are covered by insurance. This of course, will depend on the outcomes of the phase III trials, which could be about three years in the making, according to Roth.

In the past, medical intervention had been reserved for pharmacology and surgery, but today, Roth says that complementary and integrative therapies like acupuncture, yoga, and meditation are already becoming more widely accepted as forms of medical intervention.

“There is no medicine, no pill that anyone can take that’s going to help reduce and neutralize the buildup of anxiety,” Roth says. “We should equip our citizens with enough evidence-based tools to be able to handle the world that’s coming to us.”

Meditate America airs December 3 at 7:00 p.m. Eastern. Register and attend the event for free and learn how to make a donation at meditateamerica.org.

Cobra Pose

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:19:16 -0500

Begin on your belly with your feet hip-distance apart and your hands placed beside your ribs.
Extend your big toes straight back, and press down with all ten toenails to activate your quadriceps.
Spin your inner thighs to the ceiling (to broaden your lower back) while firming your outer ankles into your midline (to prevent your feet from sickling).
Pressing down lightly with your hands, start to raise your head and chest while rolling your shoulders back and down.
Keep the back of your neck long, and focus on lifting your sternum versus lifting your chin.
As your arms start to straighten, move slowly and mindfully.
Make sure to emphasize pulling your chest forward and coiling your thoracic spine rather than pushing onto your lower back—this is an important distinction, because your pelvis remains on the floor.
Move the bottom border of your shoulder blades in and up to open your chest from behind.
Only straighten your arms to the degree that allows your shoulders to remain away from your ears.
Keep at least a slight bend in your elbows to reinforce drawing out of your lower back and into your upper back.
Take your gaze up only to the degree that the curve of your neck is a continuation of the curve that has already been established in your upper back.
Hold for 5–10 breaths, then release back onto the mat.

BHARADVAJA’S TWIST

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:19:14 -0500

Begin in Dandasana (Staff Pose); move your sacrum in and up toward your navel, and extend your sternum away from your navel to lengthen your front body.
Feel your pubis and tailbone dropping equally toward the floor—the bowl of your pelvis is upright, neither spilling forward nor spilling back; also notice that the two sides of your waist are equally long.
Imagine a central axis running through your torso from your pelvic floor to the crown of your head.
Emphasize both the length and the integrity of this axis; the column is straight and is not tilting or curving off to one side or another.
Keeping the imprint of this central axis, lean onto your right hip and swing your legs to the left, bending your knees and placing your feet to the outside of your left hip.
Nestle your left ankle on top of your right arch, and descend your left sitting bone to recreate the evenness in your side body from Dandasana.
Inhale, and lengthen along the central axis.
Exhale, and twist your torso around that length to the right; keep your left sitting bone heavy.
Place your left hand beneath your right knee with your fingers pointed back toward your knee, and take your right hand to the floor behind your right hip.
Draw back with the head of your left upper arm so that the hand position doesn’t cause your shoulder to hunch forward.
Take your gaze to the right, but make sure the twist in your neck is not happening at the expense of rotation throughout your spine and torso.
Continue the essential pattern of breath; use inhalations to lengthen and exhalations to twist any amount more.
Hold for 8–10 breaths, then release back to center.
Repeat on the other side.

Crane (Crow) Pose

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:19:14 -0500

Begin in a squat with your feet together and your knees wide apart.
Tilt your torso forward so that your shoulders fit between your knees.
Grip your outer shoulders with your knees, and place your palms together in front of your sternum.
Extend your sternum away from your navel while descending your tailbone toward the floor.
Place your hands on the floor shoulder-distance apart and 6–8 inches ahead of your feet.
Come high onto your toes, and shift forward until your elbows stack over your wrists.
Continuing to reach your chest forward, lift your heels toward your buttocks.
Roll the heads of your upper arms back and up, away from the floor.
Your knees can either grip your outer shoulders or balance on your triceps.
Press your arms as straight as possible while bringing your feet and buttocks toward each other.
Hold for 5–10 breaths, then either release your feet to the floor or exit into Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose).

Bound Angle Pose

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:19:13 -0500

Half Lord of the Fishes Pose

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:19:12 -0500

Begin seated with Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose) legs, right knee on top.
Root down with your sitting bones to rebound up the length of your spine.
Imagine a central axis running through your torso from your pelvic floor to the crown of your head.
With each inhalation, emphasize both the length and the integrity of this axis; the column is straight and is not tilting or curving off to one side or another.
Keeping your left leg in its current position, place your right foot to the outside of your left knee.
Root down with your right big toe mound while simultaneously descending your right outer hip.
Inhale, and take your left arm to the ceiling.
Exhale, and hook your left elbow to the outside of your right knee. Take your right hand to the floor outside of your right hip.
Notice how your right knee tends to buckle into your midline; instead, press it to the right to create more resistance for the left elbow to work against.
Inhale, finding more length along the central axis; exhale, and use that length to revolve deeper.
Repeat on the other side.

Half Moon Pose

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:19:08 -0500

Begin in Utthita Trikonasana with the right leg in front and the upper torso square to the long side of the mat.
Bring the left hand to the hip and turn and look to the floor to the right without allowing the left ribs to collapse forward.
Bend the right knee, tracking it in line with the second toe.
Adjust the right hand and the left foot to the right, shift the weight into the right foot and lift into Ardha Chandrasana.
Place the right hand beneath the right shoulder and take the left hand to the ceiling, stacking it above the right hand.
Have the left thigh parallel to the floor with the foot flexed –make sure you can just see your left big toe.
With each inhale find more length along the spine; with each exhale revolve around that length.
Spin the right ribs forward and the left ribs back.
Firm the right buttock forward and under while pressing the left thigh bone back.
Gaze can be straight forward or to the top hand.
Hold for 5 to10 breaths.
To exit, keeping the chest open and square to the long side of the mat, bend the right knee a couple of inches.
Track the knee in line with the second toe, then deepen the bend and step back with the left foot, returning to Utthita Trikonasana.
Keep the right hand on the floor and the torso horizontal during the transition.
Having re-entered Utthita Trikonasana, root down through the feet on the next exhale; on the subsequent inhale use the strength of the legs to raise the torso and return the feet to parallel.
Repeat on the other side.

Handstand or Downward Facing Tree Pose

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:19:07 -0500

Begin with your mat at the wall in Adho Mukha Svanasana, with the fingertips about 5 inches from the wall
Practice all the classic AMS hand, arm and shoulder actions.
On an inhale, rock forward so the shoulders stack directly over the wrists.
Fix the gaze on a point between and slightly ahead of the index fingertips.
If the hips are not well higher than the shoulders, walk the feet in a couple of inches.
On an exhale, step one foot about 1/3 of the way to the hands.
Point the second foot, keeping the leg absolutely straight and neutral.
At the end of the exhale, push off the forward foot to propel the pelvis and legs to the wall.
Once both feet are up the wall, flex the ankles and climb the heels up any amount higher.
Spin the inner thighs towards the wall and take the flesh of the buttocks towards the heels.
Direct the front ribs towards the frontal hipbones.
Hold for 5-10 breaths, then, keeping one leg at the wall for as long as possible, release the opposite leg lightly to the floor and hang in a soft Uttanasa (Standing Forward Bend).

Half Frog Pose

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:19:06 -0500

Begin in Sphinx Pose, pressing down with all ten toenails, spinning your inner thighs to the ceiling, and firming your outer ankles into your midline.
Keeping your left elbow in front of your left shoulder, move your hand so your fingers point toward your right wrist and your forearm is at a diagonal.
Press down with your left forearm to roll your left shoulder back and up away from the floor.
Extend your sternum away from your navel, and broaden your collarbones to lift and open your chest.
Place your right hand next to your lower ribs with your fingers pointing forward and your shoulder at elbow height as in Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose).
Bend your right knee, aiming your foot toward your right buttock; keep your right knee pinned into your midline.
Keeping the Chaturanga shape, place your right hand on the top of your right foot with your fingers still pointing forward.
Gently press down with your right hand while moving your right heel to the outside of your buttock.
To deepen the stretch in your quadriceps, descend your tailbone and lift your right knee any amount.
Continue to lift your chest and pin your left shoulder back and up.
Hold for 5–10 breaths, then release. Repeat on the other side.

3 Common Sleep Issues—and Yoga Practices to Help Salvage Some Rest

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 19:19:11 -0500

Whether you’re too wound up to drift off or wake up in the middle of the night, four yoga therapists share the yoga poses, breathing techniques, and full-body scans you can call on.

Ah, sleep. It’s a pleasure we take for granted until it stops coming so easily to us. Unfortunately, even before this year’s pandemic, insomnia itself was becoming a worldwide epidemic; this year’s collective crisis only worsened an issue that was already brewing. So, what can we do? YJ talked to four expert yoga therapists from our recent summit, Restore Your Sleep: Reclaim Deep Rest and Wake Up Energized, for the practices that can help.

Interested in watching the Restore Your Sleep yoga summit to access discussions and practices to enhance the quality of your rest? Join now!

Are you tossing and turning most nights? You’re not alone.

Sleep Issue: You spent all day glued to your screen—now you’re too hyped to unwind.

“Sometimes forcing calm in a chaotic world just isn’t possible, or even advisable,” says Lisa Sanfilippo, psychotherapist, yoga teacher, and author of Sleep Recovery. “Our bodies are primed to activate the stress response when our natural desire to take action is immobilized.”

In other words, when things are out of your control, your body responds by accumulating tension, which can create anxiety and interfere with sleep. Lisa’s expert advice? Try discharging tension during the day.

“Stomp your feet into the ground, floor, or better yet, earth. Then, through yoga asana, you can pull even more tension out of hotspots where stress collects,” says Sanfilippo. “For example, Eka Pada Supta Virasana (One-Legged Reclined Hero Pose) releases the line of tension from the quads—your thickest muscle group—through the hip flexor and into the abdominals, lengthening the front of the torso, which creates more space for a calming breath.”

Sleep Issue: You’re lying awake—and growing increasingly anxious about it.

Often the most stressful parts of not being able to fall asleep is the awareness that we can’t sleep, which works us up into a tizzy—making the odds of drifting off even more elusive.

“If you can’t sleep, don’t panic,” says Dr. Gail Parker, psychologist, educator, and author of Restorative Yoga for Ethnic and Race-Based Stress and Trauma. “Getting into a Restorative Yoga pose not only evokes our nervous system’s relaxation response and settles any agitation, but it can help us accept our current condition. Even if you can’t sleep, you can always rest.”

Dr. Parker suggests that something as simple as a Supported Savasana (Corpse Pose), which you can do right there in bed with an extra pillow under your knees, can help you find peace in frustrating circumstances.

In those moments, you can also tap into the power of the breath, says Jillian Pransky, yoga therapist and author of Deep Listening: A Healing Practice to Calm Your Body, Clear Your Mind, and Open Your Heart.

“When we are feeling anxious or thinking stressful thoughts, we make ourselves even more tense by inhaling longer than we’re exhaling. Exhaling, which is linked to the parasympathetic nervous system, influences our body’s ability to calm down. Research shows that longer exhales further stimulate your Vagus nerve (the direct switch to turn on our ability to "rest and digest”), which can really help us relax and settle,“ says Pransky.

In fact, making the exhalation twice as long as the inhalation is a classic yogic tool, she says.

"I like to pair this breathing practice with yoga nidra when I need extra help getting to sleep. I use a 4-count inhale and 8-count exhale, but you can try counts of 2 and 4, or 3 or 6—whatever is comfortable."

Start at your feet. On your inhale, on a count of 4, bring awareness in your feet and imagine the breath melting any tension in that area. On the exhale, on a count of 8, imagine liquid tension releasing onto your mattress. On your next inhale, continue bringing your attention to the next area, and so on.

Lower Legs
Thighs
Full Length of Legs
Seat/Pelvis
Belly
Lower Back
Mid Back
Upper Back
Hands
Lower Arms
Upper Arms/Shoulders
Full Length of Arms
Face
Head

Sleep Issue: Falling asleep wasn’t an issue. Now it’s two in the morning, and you’re wide awake…

…and worrying about Covid-19…or ruminating about your morning schedule…or getting irrationally irritated that your partner is snoozing away peacefully. So, what can you do to salvage your rest? Yoga therapist Pamela Stokes Eggleston suggests a full-body, squeeze-and-release breathing practice that will help release tension and lull you back to slumber:

“Draw your attention to your breath. Inhale fully and deeply, and exhale completely, continuing to focus on your breath. After a few mindful breaths, tense your feet and toes on an inhale, and release the tension of the feet and toes on an exhale. Next, as you inhale, tense your legs; as you exhale, release. Continue moving up your body: Inhale, tensing your glutes and hips, exhale the holding; and so on. Once you complete your head and face, you can then tense the entire body, inhaling deeply, and release the holding, exhaling slowly and completely. Then focus on the breath again. If you have to, run through it again, starting at your feet and toes.”

For more great tips, watch the Restore Your Sleep yoga summit to access discussions and practices. Join now!

Product Review: Cliganic Rosehip Organic Oil

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 02:19:32 -0500

Hydrate skin and hair with this multi-purpose oil

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Health 360 gives consumers the best available product information all in one place, through independent editorial and reader reviews, and verified consumer ratings. Brands pay a fee to be included in the Health 360 program but have no influence over the reviews or scores we publish. When you make a purchase through our site, we may earn a commission.

Price: $9.99

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Yoga Journal Review

Rosehip oil has been gaining in popularity ever since model Miranda Kerr shared that she uses it to ward off acne and keep her skin supple. Cliganic Rosehip Oil, which is derived from the seeds of rose bushes, packs such a powerful skincare punch because it is rich in vitamins A and C, fatty acids, and antioxidants that nourish and hydrate skin.

Our testers noticed that Cliganic Rosehip Oil was a bit thicker than other face oils, but it felt luscious rather than oily. It absorbs quickly and left their skin feeling moisturized and velvety. One noticed that after a few weeks of applying a few drops to her face in the morning and again before bed, she felt her wrinkles were less noticeable—we credit the vitamins A and C found in Cliganic’s unrefined, cold-pressed oil, which research suggests may treat signs of aging. The oil on its own has a pleasant nutty smell but you can add a few drops of an essential oil (try any of the ones in Cliganic’s Organic Aromatherapy Set) to switch up the scent.

Cliganic Rosehip oil also made our tester’s hair feel softer and more manageable just as dry wintery weather kicked in. Our tester recommends massaging a few drops into your strands before bed and shampooing and conditioning in the morning.

Consumer Scores from Around the Web

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Yoga Journal Reader Reviews

I’ve used the rosehip oil on my face as part of my regular daily skin care and it’s worked well with my regular products. It has a rich golden/orange color which speaks to a good quality, it has very little odor and felt wonderfully silky on my skin. I’ve also blended the rose hip oil with my everyday jojoba oil to use as part of my abhyanga massage practice. - Mary D.

I discovered this amazing face oil, just as winter was announcing its arrival in the Northeast. I noticed right away that it’s a bit thicker than I’m used to, but I needn’t have worried. It absorbs quickly and it feels luscious on my skin and my hair, both of which received it most enthusiastically. - Linda S.

Invigorate Your Body and Mind With This Warming Sequence

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 17:19:02 -0500

Try this dynamic yoga flow to balance your energy

If the cooler, shorter days have you feeling tired and ungrounded, you’re not alone. Even though moving vigorously might be the last thing you feel like doing lately, heat-building standing and heart-opening postures can quickly balance the cool, dry, airy qualities (vata energy) that can leave us feeling frazzled and spacey. Try this sequence by yoga teacher Gabrielle Marchese to boost your energy and alertness and to warm up from within.

Everything You Need to Know About Fascia and Yoga

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 02:19:09 -0500

Your fascial system is as important as any other system in your body. Practicing yoga can keep it healthy—and even reshape it for better flexibility and stability.

You know the feeling: A leg stretch softens your tight shoulders, a hip-opener relieves your low-back pain. This happens by nature’s design: We each have a body-wide collagenous web, commonly called “fascia,” and when something happens to one part of the web we can feel its effects elsewhere.

“Is a Forward Bend a hamstring stretch? Well, yeah. But it’s so much more,” explains Tom Myers, author of Anatomy Trains and co-author of Fascial Release for Structural Balance. “If you are not considering the fascia in your yoga, you are not seeing the picture for what it is.”

Why Fascia Matters

Cells are our building blocks, and something has got to hold them in a recognizable shape, explains Myers. And that’s the role of fascia. “If you were going to hold 70 trillion cells together, you’re either going to glue them together or you’re going to weave them together. Evolution decided to do both,” he says.

Fascia surrounds structures in your body, including muscles, organs, and bones. It also occupies the space between your cells, interstitial space. Fascia both integrates and separates your body’s structures and systems. This way of thinking about the body moves away from identifying isolated parts. Rather, you work as a whole,” says Myers. “The body is not assembled out of parts like your Ford F-150 or your Dell computer. It is grown from a seed. The seed you’re grown from is a fertilized ovum,” Myers says. “You have never had a nervous system separate from your fascial system, separate from your muscles, separate from your epithelia, separate from your hormones.”

Fascial Elements and Yoga

Movement, including yoga asana, keeps fascia healthy, by keeping it active, hydrated, and resilient. Yoga affects four key elements of fascia:

Water. Fascia is mostly water. When you stretch or contract muscles, or hold a yoga pose, water squeezes from your fascia. When you stop the movement or exit a stretch, your tissue rehydrates—with a boost: Scientific evidence shows that fascia soaks up more water than it lost when you squeezed it out through movement. “The water moves, the water changes position, and the water carrying all kinds of chemicals in and out of your tissue, including neuropeptides, hormones, new proteins, histamines.” Yoga is especially good at facilitating this renewal because its postures move your body systematically through full ranges of motion.
Hyaluronan. Hyaluronan is spongy and soaks up water. When well-hydrated, it has a gel-like texture similar to egg whites. “There’s almost zero friction inside your joints because of the really good lubricative properties of this hyaluronan when it’s in its wet stage,” Myers says. But when hyaluronan is less hydrated, it'ssticky. When you stop moving, or through natural aging, the fascia is less lubricated and joints start rubbing on each other, moving then toward arthritis. . The actual chemistry inside the joints moves it toward an arthritic state, a degenerated state. Overuse can be problematic too: inflammation from too much friction can cut up hyaluronan chains, making it harder for the tissue to stick together and keep water at bay. “Water comes rushing in, and we call that swelling,” Myers says.
Glycoaminoglycans. Glycoaminoglycans capture moisture. They unfurl like ferns when near water, drawing water molecules along their edges. Inactivity keeps them curled in on themselves. “The movements that you’re doing in yoga, especially when you’re going into a (body) part that you don’t use normally, are cracking open these glycoaminoglycans so they open up and accept the water,” Myers says.
Collagen. Collagen (the white sinewy stuff you can see in meat) is stronger than steel. Its fibers lie alongside each other.“When you put this under stretch, these sticky molecules can let go,” Myers says. “The bonds between these fibers melt. The fibers slide on each other and then the bonds reform in a longer way.”

Fascial Growth and Yoga

Fibroblasts are the working cells of your fascial system. They create new fascia and get rid of old fascia. The new fascia is “felty, unorganized fibers going every which way,” Myers says. “There’s nothing the cell can do to organize the fascia that it’s laid down. Instead, your movement comes along and organizes the fascia.” As you start to organize your fascia through movement, including yoga, you’ll start to recognize its properties, including:

Elasticity. Fascia stores elasticity similar to that of a Super Ball, as opposed to that of a rubber band; it has a high coefficient of restitution. Elasticity is good. What you want are tendons (which have a lot of fascia) like springs, says Myers. We can train elasticity through ballistic stretches: cyclic movements of about one second, which allows for fast fascial stretch and recoil. Think: bouncing motions in aerobics—not holding Utthita Trikonasana (Extended Triangle Pose) for 30 seconds or pumping bike pedals up a steep hill.
Plasticity. Fascia is both viscous and elastic, allowing for plasticity. Plasticity happens when, for example, you hold a sustained stretch, such as Extended Triangle Pose, which melts connections between the fascial fibers, allowing the fibers to slide on each other and create new length. Picture slowly stretching a thin plastic produce bag: The plastic gets longer where you steadily pull on it; it won’t go back to its original shape. You’ve gone beyond the elasticity into the plasticity. The process is similar in your fascia, Myers says. Indeed, injury happens if you stretch fascia too quickly, taking it beyond its elastic or plastic ability to stretch and straining a tendon, for example.
Remodeling. Fascia is always remodeling (recall that some fibroblasts get rid of old fascia, while others build new fascia). When you injure yourself—breaking fascia by straining a tendon, for example—fibroblasts exaggerate the creation of new fascia, in order to protect the body, creating scar tissue. But there’s a positive aspect to remodeling: When a strong yoga or exercise session loads fascia significantly, fascia remodels in what the fitness world calls “tear-and-repair”: The fascia tears a little and repairs in a day or two, perhaps longer, depending on factors such as your age, diet, health, and exercise habits.

“What you’re doing on the mat is the stimulus,” Myers says. “Your body is more interested in what happens when you get off the mat.” In other words, it’s more interested in the remodeling, or re-knitting. Over time, remodeling can help build healthier patterns in fascia, correcting the poor posture of a forward head jut (aka text neck), for example.

Study more with Tom Myers in his online courses with Yoga Journal: Science of Stretch: Anatomy Training for Stability and Resilience with Tom Myers and Anatomy 101 with Tom Myers.