3 mins read

Is Bad Back Pain a Sign of Pregnancy?

Many women do experience back pain during their pregnancy, but it is not typically an early sign of pregnancy. Pregnancy symptoms differ from woman to woman. Other explanations for bad back pain could be stress, impending menstruation or physical strain. The only way to be sure that the back pain you are feeling is a sign that you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test or visit your doctor.

3 mins read

Preventative Health Information for Kids

Preventative health care aims to keep kids healthy by monitoring their growth and development and prevent diseases. This type of health care works to diagnose health conditions in the early stages so they may be addressed before becoming severe. Preventative health care may help kids stay healthier into adulthood and establish a good pattern of self care.

3 mins read

What Are the Benefits of Pilates Machines?

Pilates machines are specially designed, spring-resistant exercise apparatuses. The most commonly used Pilates machines include the reformer, the Cadillac, the ladder barrel, the arc barrel, the spine corrector and the wunda (foot) chair. To get the maximum benefit from using Pilates machines, work on the machines should always be supervised by a trained Pilates instructor.

2 mins read

Stress Relieving Neck Stretches

Stress is the body’s response to increased physical and mental demands. The neck, which is comprised of cervical vertebrae, shock-absorbing disks, muscles and vertebral ligaments, is particularly vulnerable since physical stress brought on by poor habits, such as bad posture, teeth grinding and sleeping position, can cause muscles to tighten or tense. Even activities like reading in bed can throw the neck out of alignment, causing pain, headaches (when muscles in the neck begin to affect nerves) and possibly more serious problems. Try the following stress-relieving neck stretches to ease tension. Be sure to breathe while stretching, and stop if you feel pain, tingling, numbness or dizzy.

3 mins read

Benefits of Pilates Exercises

The Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), a not-for-profit professional organization for Pilates, points out that more Americans are practicing Pilates as a way to condition their bodies and improve their physiques. Pilates, a low-impact exercise program appropriate for women of all ages and fitness levels, involves a succession of smooth movements, which integrate both stretching and breathing exercises. Developing a pattern of slow, deliberate movements along with controlled breathing increases blood flow to the muscles providing a number of fitness benefits.