Posts by Overstad Chiropractic

The Connection Between Spinal Health and Mood

When most people think of chiropractic care, they think of relief from back or neck pain. But at Overstad Chiropractic, we understand that spinal health is deeply connected to how you feel—both physically and emotionally. A properly aligned spine supports not just your posture, but your nervous system—and that system plays a key role in regulating your mood.

Your spine protects your spinal cord, which serves as the main communication highway between your brain and the rest of your body. When vertebrae become misaligned (known as subluxations), they can interfere with nerve signals. This interference doesn’t just cause discomfort—it can disrupt how your brain and body communicate, which may contribute to irritability, fatigue, anxiety, or even depression.

We’ve seen patients walk in feeling low or drained and leave with a renewed sense of clarity and calm. It’s not magic—it’s neurology. Adjustments restore balance and reduce tension on the nervous system. With improved nerve flow, your body can regulate hormones like cortisol (stress hormone) and serotonin (feel-good hormone) more efficiently.

Summer is an ideal time to check in on your emotional and physical balance. Between family schedules, increased activity, and the general busyness of life, stress can easily pile up. Regular chiropractic adjustments help relieve that tension and support your body’s natural ability to self-regulate.

Dr. Overstad works with patients of all ages to improve their spinal health and mood. Not just alignment, but function and overall wellness. If your mood has felt off, your energy low, or your stress high, your spine may be contributing more than you realize.

Chiropractic care is about helping you feel and function your best—from the inside out. And when your spine is aligned and your nervous system is clear, your body and brain work in sync. That means better movement, brighter moods, and a more balanced life.

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Ready to realign your mood and your spine?
Schedule a visit with Overstad Chiropractic today and experience the mind-body connection in action.

Click here to contact our Office or call 612) 802-2580

Summer Travel and Spinal Health: How to Stay Aligned on the Go

Summer is travel season—family road trips, beach vacations, cross-country flights. While getting away is good for the soul, it can be tough on your spine. Long hours sitting in cars, hauling luggage, and sleeping in unfamiliar beds all put extra stress on your body. Fortunately, chiropractic care can help you stay comfortable and aligned before, during, and after your trip.

Let’s start with the ride itself. Whether you’re flying or driving, sitting for long periods can lead to stiffness, poor posture, and back or neck pain. When you’re in one position too long—especially in cramped or awkward seats—your spine and supporting muscles start to compress and tighten. This makes it easier for misalignments to occur, especially in the lower back and neck.

To help minimize discomfort while traveling, take breaks to stretch and move. On road trips, stop every hour or two to walk around. On flights, stand up and stretch when you can. Support your lower back with a small pillow or rolled-up towel, and keep your shoulders relaxed. If you’re carrying luggage, avoid slinging heavy bags over one shoulder—use a backpack or rolling suitcase instead.

Once you arrive, a new mattress or pillow can also throw off your spinal alignment. If you wake up feeling stiff, it’s often your body reacting to an unfamiliar sleep setup. A quick chiropractic tune-up after your trip can help restore balance, relieve tension, and support your recovery from travel-related strain.

Better yet, get adjusted before you leave. A pre-trip visit to Dr. Robin can help prepare your body for the stress of travel. You’ll move better, sleep better, and reduce your risk of pain ruining your vacation.

Travel should leave you refreshed—not sore. With regular chiropractic care, your body stays aligned and resilient no matter where your summer takes you.

Going away this summer? Make sure your spine is ready. Schedule your pre- or post-travel adjustment.

Click here to contact our Office or call (612) 802-2580

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Relieve Heartburn

Heartburn, characterized by a burning sensation in the chest, often results from acid reflux, where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. While medications can offer temporary relief, chiropractic care provides a holistic approach to addressing the underlying causes of heartburn.

Understanding the Connection

The spine houses the nervous system, which controls various bodily functions, including digestion. Misalignments in the spine, particularly in the thoracic region, can disrupt nerve signals to the stomach and esophagus, potentially leading to digestive issues like acid reflux.

Chiropractic Interventions

Chiropractors focus on correcting spinal misalignments to restore proper nerve function. By realigning the spine, chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pressure on the nerves that regulate the digestive system, promoting better function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and reducing the likelihood of acid reflux episodes.

Posture and Lifestyle Considerations

Poor posture, especially slouching, can increase abdominal pressure, exacerbating heartburn symptoms. Chiropractic care often includes guidance on maintaining proper posture and may involve exercises to strengthen core muscles, further supporting digestive health.

A Holistic Approach

Chiropractic care doesn’t solely focus on spinal adjustments. Practitioners may also provide advice on dietary habits, stress management, and other lifestyle factors that contribute to heartburn. By addressing these areas, chiropractic care aims to offer comprehensive relief from heartburn symptoms.

Conclusion

Chiropractic care presents a natural, non-invasive option for individuals seeking relief from heartburn. By targeting spinal misalignments and promoting overall well-being, chiropractic interventions can play a significant role in managing and reducing symptoms.

Click here to contact our Office or call (612) 802-2580

Your Seasonal Fitness Goals

As spring arrives, bringing longer days and warmer weather, it’s the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate your fitness routine. Emerging from winter’s hibernation, many individuals feel inspired to embrace outdoor activities and set new health goals. Chiropractic care can be a valuable ally in this seasonal transition, ensuring your body is primed for increased activity and helping you achieve your fitness aspirations.​

Reignite Your Mobility

After months of reduced movement during colder seasons, it’s common to experience stiffness and decreased flexibility. Chiropractic adjustments can realign the spine and joints, enhancing your range of motion. This improved mobility makes it easier to engage in springtime activities like hiking, cycling, Tennis, or gardening, reducing the risk of strains and discomfort.​

Boost Energy and Vitality

A well-aligned spine contributes to optimal nervous system function, which can lead to increased energy levels. By addressing misalignments, chiropractic care helps your body operate more efficiently, combating fatigue and invigorating your daily routines. This surge in vitality can motivate you to pursue your fitness goals with renewed enthusiasm.​

Enhance Recovery and Prevent Injuries

Engaging in new or more intense physical activities can sometimes lead to discomfort or injury. Regular chiropractic care supports your body’s natural healing processes by ensuring proper alignment and function. By addressing imbalances and relieving tension, chiropractic adjustments can help prevent common issues like back pain or joint discomfort, keeping you on track with your fitness journey.​

Improve Posture and Performance

Poor posture can hinder your physical performance and lead to discomfort during workouts. Chiropractors assess and correct postural imbalances, promoting better alignment and muscle coordination. This not only enhances your exercise efficiency but also contributes to overall well-being.​

Support Mental Clarity and Stress Reduction

The transition into a more active lifestyle can be mentally taxing. Chiropractic care helps alleviate tension in the body, promoting relaxation and mental clarity. With a calmer mind, you can focus better on your fitness objectives and maintain consistency in your workouts.​

Embrace the season’s energy and let chiropractic care be the catalyst for your spring fitness journey. With improved mobility, increased energy, and reduced stress, you’re well-equipped to make the most of this vibrant time of year.

Click here to contact our Office or call (612) 802-2580

Allergy Season & the Spine: Can Chiropractic Help?

As spring arrives, so do itchy eyes, runny noses, and endless sneezing. Allergy season is in full swing, and for many, it can feel like a losing battle. While over-the-counter medications offer temporary relief, they often come with unwanted side effects. Fortunately, chiropractic care provides a natural approach that may help your body handle allergies more effectively—starting with your spine.

Your Nervous System and Allergies

Your spine protects your nervous system, which controls every function in your body—including your immune and respiratory systems. When spinal misalignments (subluxations) occur, they can disrupt nerve signals and weaken your body’s ability to respond to allergens. This interference may cause your immune system to overreact to common triggers like pollen, dust, or pet dander.

Chiropractic adjustments restore proper spinal alignment, helping your nervous system function at its best. A healthier nervous system supports a more balanced immune response, reducing the severity of allergic reactions.

Breathe Easier with Chiropractic Care

Many allergy sufferers also experience sinus congestion, inflammation, and pressure. Misalignments in the upper cervical spine can contribute to tension around the sinuses, making symptoms worse. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can relieve this pressure, promote sinus drainage, and improve airflow.

Patients often report breathing easier and feeling more energized after consistent chiropractic care during allergy season.

Natural Relief Without Side Effects

Unlike allergy medications that cause drowsiness or dryness, chiropractic care works with your body—not against it. Regular adjustments, combined with a healthy lifestyle, can help reduce your dependence on medication and minimize side effects.

Chiropractors may also recommend nutritional support and lifestyle changes that reduce inflammation and strengthen your immune system. Hydration, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and avoiding processed foods are all simple steps that support your body’s natural defenses.

Take Control of Allergy Season

You don’t have to suffer through spring. Chiropractic care offers a drug-free, holistic approach to managing allergies by supporting the systems that keep your body balanced and resilient. If you’re tired of relying on pills and sprays, consider visiting your chiropractor this allergy season.

A well-aligned spine can make a big difference in how your body responds to environmental stress. Schedule your adjustment today and take a proactive step toward a healthier, symptom-free spring.

Click here to contact our Office or call (612) 802-2580

Recover Faster: Get Adjusted After Every Slip or Fall

Slips and falls happen to everyone—whether it’s a minor misstep, a fall on ice, or an unexpected trip. While some falls seem harmless, even small jolts to the body can cause misalignments in the spine and joints. Chiropractic care plays a crucial role in ensuring your body recovers properly and doesn’t suffer from long-term effects.

Why Every Fall Matters: The body is designed to absorb impact, but even a small fall can create misalignments that lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility over time. When left uncorrected, these misalignments may contribute to chronic issues like headaches, joint pain, and even nerve irritation. Getting adjusted immediately after a fall helps restore alignment and prevents lingering discomfort.

How Chiropractic Adjustments Help: Chiropractic adjustments gently realign the spine and joints, ensuring that your body heals correctly. Proper alignment improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and enhances nerve function, all of which aid in faster recovery. Without correction, misalignments can create compensations in movement patterns, leading to further issues down the line.

Preventing Long-Term Issues: Falls that seem minor can have delayed effects. It’s common for people to dismiss mild discomfort at first, only to experience more significant pain days or weeks later. Chiropractic care helps catch and correct these underlying issues early, preventing long-term complications such as chronic back pain, joint dysfunction, or reduced range of motion.

Listen to Your Body: Even if you feel fine after a fall, it’s essential to listen to your body. Subtle aches, stiffness, or reduced flexibility are signs that something may be off. A chiropractic check-up ensures that any underlying misalignments are addressed before they develop into more serious concerns.

Conclusion: Don’t ignore the impact of slips or falls—your body deserves proper recovery. Chiropractic adjustments help restore alignment, promote healing, and prevent long-term issues. Prioritizing your spinal health after a fall ensures you stay active, mobile, and pain-free for the long run. If you’ve had a recent slip, schedule an adjustment to keep your body in peak condition.

Click here to contact our Office or call (612) 802-2580

Chiropractic & Fertility: How Spinal Alignment Supports Reproductive Health

Many couples struggling with fertility may not realize that spinal alignment plays a crucial role in reproductive health. The nervous system controls every function in the body, including the reproductive organs. When the spine is misaligned, particularly in the pelvis and lower back, it can interfere with nerve signals, disrupt hormone balance, and contribute to difficulties in conception.

The Connection Between the Spine and Reproductive Health

The spine houses the nervous system, which communicates with every organ, including the uterus, ovaries, and other reproductive structures. Misalignments, or subluxations, in the lower spine and pelvis can create tension and imbalances that may hinder reproductive function. By restoring proper alignment, chiropractic adjustments can help optimize the body’s natural ability to conceive.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Fertility

1. Pelvic Alignment – A misaligned pelvis can lead to tension in the surrounding muscles and ligaments, restricting blood flow and nerve communication to reproductive organs. Chiropractic adjustments help create a balanced and open pelvic environment, increasing the chances of conception.
2. Hormonal Balance – The nervous system regulates hormone production, which is essential for ovulation and a healthy menstrual cycle. Chiropractic care helps remove nerve interference, allowing the body to regulate hormones more effectively.
3. Improved Blood Flow – Proper circulation to the reproductive organs is vital for fertility. Chiropractic adjustments can enhance blood flow by relieving tension and improving alignment in the spine and pelvis.
4. Reduced Stress – Stress plays a significant role in fertility struggles, as high cortisol levels can disrupt reproductive hormones. Chiropractic care promotes relaxation, reduces tension, and supports overall well-being, helping to create a more favorable environment for conception.

Real Results: Chiropractic Success Stories

Chiropractic care has contributed to numerous successful pregnancies. We’ve seen chiropractic-fertilitycases where women struggling with fertility conceived after receiving chiropractic adjustments. By aligning the pelvis, hips, and spine, we helped optimize their body’s natural reproductive function, leading to positive outcomes.

Chiropractic Care: A Natural Approach to Fertility

If you or someone you know is facing fertility challenges, chiropractic care may be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. By ensuring the spine and nervous system are functioning at their best, you can support your body’s natural ability to conceive.

Schedule a consultation today to explore how chiropractic adjustments can help you on your journey to parenthood!

Click here to contact our Office or call (612) 802-2580

As the colder months set in, many people experience a drop in mood, lower energy levels, and even symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The shorter days and colder temperatures can take a toll on both physical and mental well-being. While light therapy, exercise, and a balanced diet are common solutions, one often-overlooked approach to beating the winter blues is chiropractic care.

The Spine-Mind Connection

Your spine plays a critical role in overall health, including mental well-being. Misalignments, or subluxations, in the spine can interfere with the nervous system’s ability to function properly. Since the nervous system controls mood regulation, chronic tension and spinal misalignment may contribute to feelings of stress, anxiety, and fatigue. Chiropractic adjustments help restore proper alignment, allowing the nervous system to communicate effectively and improving overall wellness.

How Chiropractic Adjustments Improve Mood

1. Reduces Stress and Tension – Misalignments in the spine can lead to muscle tightness and tension, which contribute to feelings of stress. Chiropractic care helps release tension, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
2. Boosts Endorphins – Spinal adjustments stimulate the nervous system and may help increase the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood-boosting chemicals. This can create a sense of well-being and help combat the sluggishness of winter.
3. Enhances Sleep Quality – Poor sleep is a common issue in the colder months and can negatively affect mood. Chiropractic adjustments can relieve discomfort and help regulate sleep patterns, leading to more restful and restorative sleep.
4. Supports Immune Function – The immune system is closely linked to mental and physical health. When your body is fighting off illness, it can leave you feeling drained and irritable. Regular chiropractic care can help optimize immune function, keeping you healthier and more energized during the winter months.

Stay Ahead of the Winter Blues

If you find yourself struggling with low energy or mood changes during the colder months, consider adding chiropractic care to your wellness routine. By keeping your spine aligned and your nervous system functioning properly, you can experience improved mood, better sleep, and a greater sense of overall well-being.

Schedule an adjustment today and give your body the boost it needs to take on the winter season with a renewed sense of energy and positivity!

Click here to contact our Office or call (612) 802-2580

Heart Health & Chiropractic: The Surprising Connection

February is Heart Health Month, a time to focus on cardiovascular wellness and the steps we can take to keep our hearts strong. While diet and exercise are well-known factors in heart health, one often-overlooked contributor is spinal alignment. Proper spinal health plays a crucial role in circulation, nerve function, and overall cardiovascular well-being. Here’s how chiropractic care can support a healthier heart.

The Spine’s Role in Circulation

The spine houses and protects the central nervous system, which controls every function in the body, including heart rate and circulation. Misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can create nerve interference, disrupting signals between the brain and heart. This interference may contribute to issues such as poor circulation, increased blood pressure, and even heightened stress levels—factors that all impact heart health.

Chiropractic Care and Blood Pressure Regulation

Research has shown that spinal adjustments, particularly in the upper cervical spine, can help regulate blood pressure. A study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension found that a specific chiropractic adjustment to the atlas vertebra resulted in significant reductions in blood pressure, comparable to the effects of some blood pressure medications. By restoring proper alignment, chiropractic care may help support cardiovascular function naturally.

Reducing Stress for a Healthier Heart

Chronic stress is a major contributor to heart disease. When the body is under stress, it releases cortisol and adrenaline, which can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Chiropractic care has been shown to reduce stress levels by improving nervous system function and promoting relaxation. Many patients report feeling a sense of calm and balance after an adjustment, which can have positive effects on heart health over time.

Enhancing Circulation and Mobility

Spinal misalignments can lead to muscle tension, restricted movement, and poor circulation. Chiropractic adjustments help improve blood flow by relieving pressure on nerves and blood vessels. Better circulation means that oxygen and nutrients are more efficiently delivered throughout the body, supporting cardiovascular health and overall vitality.

Prioritize Your Heart Health This Month

This Heart Health Month, consider chiropractic care as part of your wellness routine. By ensuring your spine is properly aligned, you’re not only supporting a healthier nervous system but also promoting better circulation, reduced stress, and improved heart function.

Schedule a chiropractic visit today and take a proactive step toward a healthier heart and a healthier you!

Click here to contact our Office or call (612) 802-2580