1.) Women have a better sense of smell than men. 2.) When you take a step, you use up to 200 muscles. 3.) Your ears secrete more earwax when you are afraid than when you aren’t. 4.) The human brain has the capacity to store everything you experience. 5.) It takes twice as long to lose new muscle if you stop working out than it did to gain it. 6.) The average person’s skin weighs twice as much as their brain. 7.) Every year your body replaces 98% of your atoms. 8.) On average, there are 100 billion neurons in the human brain. 9.) The lifespan of a taste bud is ten days. 10.) Dentists recommend you keep your toothbrush at least 6 feet away from a toilet to avoid airborne particles caused by flushing. 11.) Your tongue is the only muscle in your body that is attached at only one end. 12.) Your stomach produces a new layer of mucus every two weeks so that it doesn’t digest itself. 13.) It takes about 20 seconds for a red blood cell to circle the whole body. 14.) The pupil of the eye expands as much as 45% when a person looks at something pleasing. 15.) Your heart rate can rise as much as 30% during a yawn. 16.) Your heart pumps about 2,000 gallons of blood each day. 17.) Your heart beats over 100,000 times a day. 18.) Your hair grows faster in the morning than at any other time of day. 19.) Your body is creating and killing 15 million red blood cells per second. 20.) You’re born with 300 bones, but when you reach adulthood, you only have 206!
When the Cause of Low Back Pain Isn’t Obvious
1 JulLow back pain is one of the most common health complaints in the world and one of
the leading reasons patients seek chiropractic care. For many patients, the first question is,
“What is causing the pain?” The answer is not always simple.
In general, low back pain can be divided into two categories: specific and nonspecific low back pain. Specific low back pain refers to cases where a clear underlying
pathology can be identified. Examples include fractures, infections, tumors, inflammatory
diseases, or disc herniations with significant nerve compression. These conditions are
important to recognize because they may require medical intervention or specialized care.
Fortunately, these more serious causes account for only about 10–15% of low back pain
cases.
That means approximately 85% of cases are considered non-specific. The term nonspecific does not mean the pain is imaginary or that nothing is wrong. It simply means there
is no single obvious structural problem that clearly explains the symptoms. This can
sometimes surprise patients who expect an MRI or X-ray to reveal one identifiable cause.
However, research has shown that many common imaging findings—such as disc bulges,
arthritis, or spinal degeneration—are also frequently found in people with no pain at all.
Today, non-specific low back pain is understood to be multifactorial and may involve
a combination of joint irritation, muscle dysfunction, reduced mobility, physical
deconditioning, repetitive strain, stress, poor sleep, inflammation, and nervous system
sensitization. Sometimes the pain begins after an injury. Other times it develops gradually
with no clear trigger. This complexity is one reason why back pain can vary so much from
person to person and why effective treatment often requires an individualized approach.
Clinical guidelines for non-specific low back pain typically emphasize conservative
care, movement, and an activity plan whenever possible. Chiropractic care can be an
excellent option for many patients with low back pain. Doctors of chiropractic are trained to
evaluate the spine and musculoskeletal system, identify red flags that may require medical
referral, and provide conservative treatment for many common back pain conditions.
Treatment may include spinal manipulation, mobilization, soft tissue therapies, exercise
recommendations, postural guidance, and patient education.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Benefits of a Daily Multivitamin
29 JunMany adults and children take a daily multivitamin as part of their overall health
strategy. However, decades of research have produced mixed findings on whether
multivitamins reduce the risk of major health outcomes. As a result, some experts assert that
water-soluble vitamins produce little more than expensive, neon-colored urine.
More recent studies—particularly those using improved research designs—are
beginning to challenge this notion. While multivitamins are not a cure-all, they may offer
subtle but measurable benefits, especially in certain populations.
- In a 2026 study analyzing data from the COSMOS trial involving 958 older adults,
researchers found that participants who took a daily multivitamin for two years
experienced slower biological aging—by about four months—compared to those
taking a placebo. The multivitamin group also had lower levels of inflammatory
markers and performed better on cognitive assessments, suggesting potential benefits
for both physical and brain health. - An August 2020 study of 42 middle-aged and older adults found that those taking a
daily multivitamin experienced less severe illness symptoms and shorter illness
duration than those given a placebo. Many nutrients commonly found in
multivitamins—such as vitamins C, vitamin D, and zinc—are known to support
immune function. - In a group of 1,708 heart attack survivors, researchers observed that those given a
high-dose multivitamin had a 54% lower risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes
compared to those given a placebo. - An analysis of nearly 100,000 women found that multivitamin use during pregnancy
was associated with reduced risks of several birth defects, including neural tube,
cardiovascular, urinary tract, and limb abnormalities.
A more modern perspective is that multivitamins may not be universally necessary—
especially for individuals who consume a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet rich in fruits,
vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. For these individuals, additional
supplementation may offer little added benefit. However, for older adults, individuals with
dietary restrictions, chronic conditions, or increased nutritional demands, a daily
multivitamin may serve as a practical and low-risk way to help close nutritional gaps.
As research continues to evolve, the most balanced conclusion may be that
multivitamins are neither a miracle solution nor a waste, but rather a tool that can be useful in
the right context.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888
Neuroinflammation and Chronic Whiplash Symptoms
25 JunIt’s estimated that up to 50% of patients with whiplash-associated disorders
(WAD) continue to experience symptoms one year after their injury. Common chronic
WAD symptoms include persistent neck pain and stiffness, headaches, shoulder and
upper back pain, arm pain or numbness and tingling, dizziness or balance issues, fatigue
and sleep disturbance, cognitive difficulties, and increased pain sensitivity.
Because of the significant toll chronic WAD can have on individuals, families, and
society as a whole, there has been substantial research aimed at better understanding
these injuries in hopes of preventing long-term pain and disability. In particular, the view
is beginning to shift from WAD being the result of simple soft tissue injury to a more
complex condition involving the nervous system, where ongoing inflammation in and
around neural tissues may continue to drive pain long after the initial injury.
The sudden acceleration and deceleration of the head and neck that characterizes
whiplash can place rapid strain on cervical tissues, including the joints, muscles,
ligaments, and tendons. In response, the body initiates an inflammatory process, releasing
chemical messengers that help coordinate healing. These inflammatory signals can also
affect nearby nerves, increasing their sensitivity and altering how they transmit signals.
In the short term, this response is normal and part of recovery. However, if the
condition is not effectively managed, this heightened state can persist. Ongoing irritation
of the nervous system may amplify pain signaling and contribute to increased sensitivity
over time, a process known as central sensitization. As a result, stimuli that would not
normally be painful may begin to produce pain, and symptoms can persist even after the
original injury has largely healed.
Patients with signs of sensitization often require a more comprehensive treatment
approach—one that addresses both the physical tissues and the nervous system. Care may
include manual therapies and therapeutic modalities, targeted exercises and a gradual
return to normal activity, and patient education to support positive recovery expectations.
In some cases, additional strategies aimed at reducing inflammation, such as dietary
considerations, may also be included as part of a broader, individualized plan.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptom Mapping
18 JunCarpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition characterized by symptoms in parts of the hand
supplied by the median nerve, typically caused by compression of the nerve as it passes through the
wrist. However, the constellation of symptoms associated with CTS is not unique to this peripheral
neuropathy, and without a thorough history and examination, it’s possible for a healthcare provider to
make an incorrect or incomplete diagnosis. In such cases, patients may achieve only temporary relief
at best.
Let’s look at how a doctor of chiropractic may map a patient’s symptoms to develop a clearer
picture of the chief complaint:
- Location: The chiropractor will work with the patient to identify the precise areas in the hand
where symptoms are experienced. In CTS, symptoms are most often reported in the thumb,
index finger, middle finger, and the thumb-side of the ring finger as well as the
corresponding portion of the palm. Symptoms affecting the pinky, the pinky-side of the ring
finger, or the back of the hand may suggest involvement of a different nerve. - Timing and movement: Uncovering when symptoms occur can provide important clues. In
CTS, symptoms may worsen at night, during repetitive or forceful hand activity, or at the
extremes of wrist motion. If symptoms are provoked by changes in neck position or certain
arm movements, this may indicate involvement beyond the wrist. - Path: If symptoms travel from the hand up the arm—or from the neck or shoulder down into
the hand—this may suggest nerve irritation somewhere along its course. - Associated symptoms: While hand symptoms often drive patients to seek care, it’s important
to check for additional complaints such as neck pain or stiffness, shoulder discomfort,
headaches, or weakness in the arm or hand. These findings may be related and can influence
the diagnosis.
Assessing symptoms in this way helps determine whether the patient likely has CTS, whether
there is median nerve involvement at other points along its path, whether a different nerve is
involved, or some combination of these factors. It’s not uncommon for median nerve compression at
the wrist to coexist with irritation at other sites (often referred to as double crush syndrome), or for
the ulnar or radial nerves to also be involved—especially in cases that do not respond as expected to
typical CTS care.
With a more complete clinical picture, the chiropractor can develop a treatment plan aimed at
reducing pressure on the affected nerves. This may include manual therapies, targeted exercises,
physiotherapy modalities, nighttime wrist splinting, and nutritional recommendations to help manage
inflammation. If underlying health conditions are suspected to contribute to nerve irritation, care may
also involve collaboration with other healthcare providers, such as a medical physician or specialist.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888
The Importance of the Scapula
11 JunThe shoulder is not a single joint. It’s a complex structure made up of four joints that
must work together to allow the wide range of motion needed for everyday arm movements.
While the glenohumeral (ball-and-socket) joint often gets the most attention when assessing
the shoulder, the scapula—or shoulder blade—is frequently overlooked despite its important
role in shoulder movement and stability. Let’s look at some of its key functions:
- Stable Base for Muscle Activation: The scapula provides a stable platform for the
rotator cuff and surrounding shoulder muscles to function properly. This stability is
essential for coordinated movement, efficient force production, and safe load transfer
during arm activity. - Scapulohumeral Rhythm and Joint Positioning: As the arm lifts, the scapula moves in
coordination with the humerus to maintain proper alignment between the ball and
socket. This coordinated motion—called scapulohumeral rhythm—includes upward
rotation, posterior tilt, and external rotation. These movements help preserve space in
the shoulder joint, reduce the risk of impingement, and allow for smooth, full-range
motion. - Kinetic Chain Function: The scapula acts as a link between the shoulder, neck, and
trunk, helping transfer force from the core and lower body to the arm. This role is
especially important during activities that require strength, coordination, or overhead
motion. - Glenohumeral Stability: The scapula must strike a balance between mobility and
stability. It needs to move freely to position the socket correctly while also providing
a firm base that allows the shoulder joint to remain stable during movement. This
balance is critical for preventing injury and maintaining normal shoulder function.
Research shows that improving scapular muscle endurance and correcting abnormal
scapular positioning—both at rest and during movement—through manual therapy and
targeted exercises can lead to better outcomes in patients with shoulder pain, including
impingement. Additionally, studies have linked poor scapular alignment with an increased
risk of chronic neck pain as well as greater pain intensity and disability. For this reason,
doctors of chiropractic often evaluate the scapula when assessing patients with shoulder or
neck pain.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888
Tips to Help Prevent Episodic Headaches
4 JunHeadaches are among the most common physical ailments worldwide, with about half of
adults experiencing at least one episode each year and roughly 1 in 6 reporting a headache on
any given day. Fortunately, for most people, headaches are not a persistent issue but instead
occur episodically—that is, they arise for a short period of time and then resolve. In broad terms,
three major contributors to episodic headaches include dehydration, stress, and muscle tension.
Dehydration is a condition in which the body does not have enough fluids to support
normal physiological functions. This can lead to reduced blood volume, slowing the delivery of
oxygen to tissues and the removal of cellular waste. It can also disrupt electrolyte balance, affect
nerve signaling and muscle function, impair temperature regulation, and alter brain function.
Together, these changes can contribute to the development of a headache that may persist until
hydration is restored. To reduce the likelihood of dehydration-related headaches, drink water
consistently throughout the day and limit excessive caffeine intake. It’s also important not to rely
solely on thirst as a signal, as mild dehydration may already be present by the time thirst
develops.
Stress activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, increasing cortisol levels and causing
muscles to tighten in preparation for potential injury. While this response is helpful in short-term
emergencies, ongoing stress in daily life can lead to increased pain sensitivity and sustained
muscle tension in the shoulders, neck, and scalp. This combination can create the conditions for
tension-type headaches. Managing stress through regular physical activity, taking breaks during
the day, and practicing relaxation techniques such as controlled breathing or meditation may help
keep these headaches at bay.
Muscle tension headaches are frequently associated with poor posture, particularly
forward head posture, which places additional strain on the muscles and joints of the neck and
upper back. This is especially common among individuals who spend long periods working at
desks or using phones and tablets. Over time, this strain can lead to tightness and discomfort that
radiates into the head. Maintaining proper posture, positioning screens at eye level, and taking
regular breaks to stretch and move can help minimize this type of headache.
If these strategies do not reduce the frequency, duration, or intensity of headaches, it may
be appropriate to consult a healthcare provider, including a doctor of chiropractic. A thorough
review of medical history and current symptoms, along with a physical examination, can help
identify underlying musculoskeletal factors that may be contributing to recurring headaches.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888
Pain Relief Chiropractic 