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!
Lumbar Instability: Looking Beyond the Spine
1 SepWhile an episode of low back pain may begin after lifting, sleeping in an awkward
position, or engaging in physical activity, these events often act as triggers rather than the
underlying cause. In many cases, the factors that make the lower back vulnerable have been
present for months or even years. One such factor is lumbar instability, which occurs when agerelated changes, muscle weakness, or repetitive mechanical stress reduce the ability of the
ligaments, intervertebral disks, facet joints, and muscles to stabilize the spine. As a result, the
vertebrae may move excessively, placing greater stress on the pain-sensitive tissues in the lower
back. There is growing evidence that structures beyond the lumbar spine—particularly the
muscles that control the hips and pelvis, including the gluteal muscles and hamstrings—can also
influence lumbar stability.
The gluteal muscles and hamstrings play an important role in supporting healthy
movement and helping maintain proper control of the pelvis during everyday activities. When
these muscles are weak, the pelvis may not remain as stable during walking, bending, lifting, or
climbing stairs. This can alter the way forces are transferred through the pelvis and lower back,
increasing stress on the joints, disks, ligaments, and muscles of the lumbar spine.
The gluteal muscles, particularly the gluteus medius and gluteus maximus, are important
for controlling pelvic position and limiting excessive movement during standing and walking.
Weakness in these muscles may contribute to altered posture and movement patterns that place
greater demands on the lower back. Likewise, weak hamstrings may be less able to help control
hip motion and pelvic movement during activities such as bending, lifting, or climbing stairs.
A December 2025 study provides further support for this concept. Researchers evaluated
129 young adults, including 67 with lumbar instability, to better understand the relationship
between muscle function and low back pain. The investigators found that weaker hamstring
muscles and reduced hip mobility were associated with greater low back pain and higher levels
of disability.
These findings reinforce the notion that the body functions as an interconnected system.
Low back pain may not originate solely from the lumbar spine itself. Instead, weakness or
limited mobility in the muscles and joints surrounding the hips and pelvis can alter posture,
movement, and the way forces are distributed throughout the body. Doctors of chiropractic are
trained to evaluate musculoskeletal conditions and assess how the spine, hips, pelvis, and
surrounding muscles function together. Following a thorough examination, they can develop an
individualized, multimodal treatment plan to address contributing factors, improve function,
relieve pain, and support long-term spinal health.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Habits for Better Stress Management
31 AugSurveys suggest that a majority of adults report feeling stressed on a regular basis, and
chronic stress has been associated with a variety of health concerns, including sleep problems,
headaches, digestive issues, anxiety, elevated blood pressure, and reduced overall well-being. While
stressful situations cannot always be avoided, lifestyle habits can influence how effectively the brain
and body respond to challenges and recover afterward.
After an overnight fast, the brain requires a steady supply of glucose to function efficiently.
Eating breakfast may help stabilize energy levels, reduce large fluctuations in blood sugar, and
support attention, decision-making, and emotional regulation throughout the day. More stable blood
sugar levels may also support healthy cortisol rhythms. When blood sugar drops significantly, the
body may activate stress pathways to restore energy availability, which can contribute to irritability,
anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and mental fatigue.
Adequate sleep supports emotional regulation, healthy cortisol production, recovery from
daily stressors, and effective problem-solving. It also helps reduce activation of the sympathetic, or
“fight-or-flight,” nervous system. In contrast, insufficient sleep has been associated with increased
emotional reactivity, greater perceived stress, anxiety symptoms, higher levels of inflammation, and
a reduced ability to adapt to challenges. Even a few nights of poor sleep can make everyday stressors
feel more overwhelming.
Exercise helps regulate stress hormones, supports healthy nervous system function, increases
production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters, and promotes the release of endorphins. It may
also improve sleep quality and cognitive performance. In many ways, exercise acts as a form of
controlled stress that teaches the body and brain to adapt more efficiently when future stressors arise.
Nutritious eating patterns may also support stress resilience. Diets that emphasize fruits,
vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and other minimally processed foods provide nutrients that
support healthy brain function and stable energy levels. These foods may also help reduce chronic
inflammation and promote healthy blood sugar regulation. Emerging research suggests that a healthy
gut microbiome may influence mood, emotional regulation, and the body’s response to stress through
ongoing communication between the gut and brain.
The big picture is that stress resilience is not determined by any single habit. Consistently
eating nutritious meals, getting adequate sleep, and engaging in regular physical activity appear to
create a physiological environment that helps the brain and body respond to challenges more
effectively. Healthy habits may not eliminate stress, but they can improve the body’s capacity to
recover from stress and adapt to future demands.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Whiplash and Occipital Neuralgia
27 AugOccipital neuralgia is a condition involving irritation of the occipital nerves and is often
characterized by sharp, shooting, burning, or electric-like pain that starts near the base of the skull
and radiates upward. A 2025 study of 212 patients with occipital neuralgia found that 117 reported a
prior head or neck injury, with whiplash identified as the most common cause. Let’s look at how a
history of whiplash may influence the risk of occipital neuralgia.
The greater occipital nerve originates from the second cervical spinal nerve and passes
through several layers of muscle and connective tissue before reaching the scalp. During a whiplash
injury, the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head and neck may stretch or compress the nerve,
cause microscopic injury, or trigger abnormal nerve signaling. In some individuals, these changes
may contribute to the shooting, burning, or electric-like sensations.
Whiplash commonly causes tightness in the small muscles at the base of the skull as well as
tension throughout the neck and shoulders. When these muscles remain chronically tight, they may
place pressure on nearby occipital nerves and contribute to symptoms. Trauma can also affect the
joints between the skull and first cervical vertebra as well as those between the first and second
cervical vertebrae. These structures are closely related to the nerve roots that eventually form the
occipital nerves. Joint irritation may increase local inflammation, alter nerve mechanics, and produce
pain patterns that resemble occipital neuralgia.
The healing process itself may also play a role. As injured tissues repair, scar tissue and
thickened connective tissue can develop. Because the occipital nerves pass through multiple
muscular and fascial layers, these changes may reduce the available space around the nerves and
contribute to ongoing irritation or entrapment. In some individuals, the nervous system becomes
more sensitive following injury. This process can cause normally harmless sensations to become
painful and may contribute to scalp tenderness, increased nerve sensitivity, or symptoms that persist
long after the initial injury has healed.
Occipital neuralgia is sometimes mistaken for migraines, tension headaches, or headaches
that originate from the neck. Clues that suggest occipital neuralgia include pain that begins near the
base of the skull, tenderness over the occipital nerves, scalp sensitivity, and sharp pain that radiates
toward the top of the head. Because several conditions can produce similar symptoms, a thorough
examination is important. If the examination suggests occipital neuralgia is present and the patient is
a candidate for chiropractic care, treatment may include a multimodal approach using manual
therapies, specific exercises, physiotherapy modalities, and patient education to help reduce
mechanical stress on the occipital nerves. Chiropractors are also trained to recognize when comanagement or referral to another healthcare provider may be appropriate.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Contributing Factors for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
24 AugCubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or
irritated as it passes through a narrow space on the inside of the elbow called the cubital
tunnel. This can result in numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers, hand weakness,
reduced grip strength, and aching pain along the inside of the elbow. Symptoms are often
more noticeable when the elbow remains bent for prolonged periods, such as while sleeping
or talking on the phone. While repetitive elbow bending and prolonged pressure on the elbow
are well-known contributors, several health conditions may also increase one’s risk:
- Smoking – Smoking can reduce blood flow to nerves, increase inflammation, and
impair healing, making nerves more vulnerable to compression. - Diabetes – High blood sugar may damage nerves and the small blood vessels that
supply them. Nerves of diabetic patients may become symptomatic under lower levels
of compression and often recover more slowly. - Hypertension – High blood pressure may affect the small blood vessels that nourish
nerves and is frequently associated with other metabolic conditions that influence
nerve health. - Excess Body Weight – Obesity may increase pressure around the elbow, contribute to
inflammation, and is strongly associated with diabetes and metabolic syndrome. - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome
share many of the same risk factors, including diabetes, obesity, smoking, and
inflammatory conditions. In some cases, irritation of nerve roots in the neck or the
brachial plexus from which these nerves arise may reduce the nervous system’s
tolerance to compression, making symptoms more likely to develop at multiple
locations in the arm. - Osteoarthritis – Bone spurs, joint enlargement, and changes in elbow structure may
reduce the space available for the ulnar nerve. - Rheumatoid Arthritis – Chronic inflammation, tissue swelling, and joint deformity
may increase pressure on nerves and raise the likelihood of nerve entrapment.
As with other nerve entrapment disorders, seeking care early when symptoms are
mild and less frequent is often associated with better outcomes. If these factors are suspected
to contribute to a patient’s symptoms, a chiropractor may coordinate care with other
healthcare providers while providing conservative treatment aimed at improving the mobility
of the ulnar nerve along its course, including through the cubital tunnel.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Shoulder Weakness and Tennis Elbow
20 AugTennis elbow, also known as lateral elbow tendinopathy, is a common condition involving
irritation of the tendons that attach to the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, it affects many people
who have never played tennis. Repetitive gripping, lifting, typing, and tool use can all contribute to the
condition. Traditionally, treatment has focused on the elbow, forearm, and wrist. However, growing
evidence suggests the shoulder may also play an important role.
One reason involves the concept of the kinetic chain. When reaching, lifting, throwing, gripping,
or performing other arm movements, force is transferred through a connected system that includes the
shoulder blade (scapula), shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand. If the muscles around the shoulder and
shoulder blade are weak, the body may compensate by placing greater demands on the forearm muscles
that attach to the elbow. As a result, the wrist extensor tendons may work harder, increasing stress on
already irritated tissues and reducing opportunities for recovery.
The shoulder blade serves as the foundation for arm movement. Several muscles help stabilize
and control its position, including the lower and middle trapezius, serratus anterior, and rhomboids.
Weakness in these muscles can contribute to poor shoulder positioning and less efficient movement
patterns throughout the arm. When the scapula is more stable, the arm can move more efficiently and less
force may be transferred to the elbow.
The rotator cuff muscles are also important because they help stabilize the shoulder joint during
movement. If these muscles are weak, larger muscles may compensate, making movement less efficient
and potentially increasing stress farther down the arm. Improving rotator cuff strength may help distribute
forces more effectively, reduce excessive gripping, and decrease repetitive loading of the wrist extensor
tendons.
Many people with tennis elbow have reduced grip strength because gripping increases tension on
the irritated tendons. Interestingly, grip strength often improves when shoulder and scapular exercises are
included in rehabilitation programs. Better shoulder function can make the entire arm more mechanically
efficient, reduce protective muscle guarding, and decrease irritation of the painful tendon. Better shoulder
mechanics can reduce tendon stress, improved muscle endurance can distribute workload across the entire
arm, and exercise can enhance motor control and influence how the nervous system processes pain
signals.
Rather than viewing tennis elbow as an isolated elbow condition, many researchers now
recognize the important role that shoulder and scapular function can play in both the development and
persistence of symptoms. A chiropractic evaluation may help identify contributing factors involving the
shoulder, elbow, and surrounding structures. Chiropractors are trained to evaluate musculoskeletal
conditions, recognize findings that may require referral, and provide conservative care when appropriate.
Depending on the individual, treatment may include exercise recommendations, manual therapies, activity
modification, and other conservative approaches designed to improve function and support recovery.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Managing Somatic Tinnitus
13 AugTinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. People often
describe it as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming in one or both ears. While tinnitus is
frequently associated with hearing-related conditions, not all tinnitus originates solely from
the auditory system. A form known as somatic tinnitus is influenced by musculoskeletal
factors beyond the ear, particularly the neck and jaw.
Some individuals notice that the volume or pitch of their tinnitus changes when they
clench their jaw, turn their head, or apply pressure to muscles in the face or neck. Others find
that their tinnitus becomes more noticeable during episodes of neck pain, jaw discomfort, or
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) flare-ups. The ability to modify the sound through
movement is considered one of the strongest indicators that musculoskeletal factors may be
involved.
Researchers believe this connection exists because nerves from the neck, jaw, and
face communicate with areas of the brain that help process sound. One of these regions,
called the dorsal cochlear nucleus, receives information from both the auditory system and
nearby sensory structures. When abnormal signals arise from irritated joints, tight muscles,
or dysfunctional movement patterns, they may influence how sound is perceived. Common
contributors to somatic tinnitus include TMJ dysfunction, cervical spine dysfunction,
whiplash injuries, forward-head posture, teeth grinding, and chronic muscle tension in the
neck and shoulders.
Presently, there is no widely adopted, standalone international treatment guideline
specifically for somatic tinnitus. However, expert reviews, consensus papers, and tinnitus
guidelines generally recommend a thorough examination of the neck, jaw, posture, and
surrounding muscles. If potential musculoskeletal factors are identified, a course of treatment
to resolve these issues is advised to see if tinnitus symptoms are reduced or resolved.
Chiropractors are trained to evaluate musculoskeletal conditions, identify findings
that may require referral, and provide conservative care for disorders affecting the spine and
related structures. For patients whose tinnitus changes with jaw movement, neck movement,
posture, or muscle tension, a chiropractic evaluation may help determine whether a
musculoskeletal component is contributing to their symptoms and whether conservative care
is appropriate as part of a broader management plan.
Brent Binder, D.C.
4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Pain Relief Chiropractic 