"Oh, my aching back." How many times have you said that? Probably one time too many.

Along with exercise and heat and cold applications, those suffering from back and spinal pain might need a quick adjustment to help relieve some of the stress. Dr. Chace Unruh is a third generation chiropractor and owner of Unruh Chiropractic (288-0022). Unruh said the stress and strain of everyday life can lead to back problems, but more than likely it's an accumulation of seemingly innocuous physical events that wreak havoc on our bodies and ultimately our health.

"Our bodies were magnificently designed to regulate and heal themselves without any conscious effort from you," Unruh said. "That's because your nerve system is the master controller of your body. It is responsible for orchestrating in perfect harmony all of your body's functions."

Because your spinal bones surround and protect the nerves in your spinal cord, your spine might be misaligned due to a partial dislocation of the bones (vertebral subluxation). When this happens the spinal joints will put pressure on one or more nerves. A subluxation will adversely affect the cell to which the nerve is connected. As a result, Unruh said a lifelong spinal degeneration is the reason why so many people experience chronic health problems all over their bodies.

Chiropractic adjustments remove the interference to your nerve system. Unruh Chiropractic utilizes different techniques of spinal manipulation that are tailored to address the specific needs of each patient. Unruh has the only office in Santa Clarita that provides Dynamic Decompression Therapy, Class IV High Power Therapeutic Laser and Digital Motion X-ray. Patients are also provided with nutritional counseling, supplementation and detoxification.

"People who choose regular wellness chiropractic care find that they are as healthy and active as possible, regardless of their age," Unruh said.

According to Heather deCordova, assistant director of rehabilitation services at Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital, almost 85 percent of people over the age of 50 have been afflicted with pain, muscle weakness and limited activity resulting from back and neck injuries. This can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and their ability to enjoy everyday activities.

Surprisingly, another source of back pain could be your feet. According to Dr. Tony Avakian of Valencia Foot and Ankle Center (288-2321), poor alignment between the feet and legs can affect the kinetic chain all the way up the spine. Studies have shown that over 90 percent of those surveyed found improvement or total relief of lower back, hip and knee and foot pain by correcting the abnormality of their feet.

Avakian recommends custom orthotics or insoles to correct biomechanical deformity by properly supporting the feet in a neutral position. Orthotics improve the alignment between the feet and legs, reducing stress from the feet up to the lower back, and create better posture and gait. Avakian captures true foot contours and arch height measurements to produce the most superior custom orthotics in medicine.

Those suffering with back pain should also work out an exercise and stretching program with their doctor. "Proper exercise strengthens back muscles that support the spine, reducing strain on the back," Henry Mayo's deCordova said. "Exercise also strengthens bones and increases function, reducing the risk of falls and injuries."

Henry Mayo Hospital holds special Spine Education classes on the second Wednesday of every month to increase awareness of spine anatomy. These classes will advise individuals on ways to protect the spine and help reduce injuries, avoid worsening symptoms, and prevent pain. Classes are free of charge and all ages are welcome but reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling
253-8959.