Author name: Dr Richard Sawyer

If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or recovering from an injury, you might be unsure whether to see a chiropractor or a physiotherapist. While both professions aim to help you move better and feel better, they approach treatment in different ways. Here’s a guide to help you decide which one might be right for you:

See a Chiropractor if…

1. You’re looking to improve spinal alignment and nervous system function
Chiropractors focus on the spine, joints, and nervous system to support overall health and mobility.

2. You have back pain, neck pain, or headaches
Chiropractic care often treats issues arising from spinal misalignments using gentle adjustments to realign the spine and relieve discomfort.

3. You want a natural, drug-free approach to healing
Chiropractors emphasize the body’s ability to heal itself without the use of medication.

4. You value a holistic approach
Chiropractors look at the body as a whole, considering alignment, posture, stress, and lifestyle habits when developing a care plan.

See a Physiotherapist if…

1. You’re recovering from surgery or injury and need specific rehabilitation
Physiotherapists specialize in rehabilitation, using exercises and manual therapy to restore strength and mobility.

2. You have soft tissue injuries, like muscle, tendon, or ligament damage
Physiotherapists focus on the recovery and rehabilitation of soft tissue injuries, using targeted movement plans to promote healing.

3. You’re managing a chronic condition that affects movement
Physiotherapy is particularly effective for conditions like arthritis or neurological disorders that affect joint function and mobility. It can help maintain your independence and improve movement over time.

Which One Is Right for You?
In many cases, the answer isn’t just one or the other. Some people find they benefit from a combination of chiropractic and physiotherapy care, depending on their specific needs.

Need Help Deciding?
At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we’ll assess your body, movement patterns, and health goals to guide you in the right direction. Whether chiropractic care is the best fit or you need a more combined approach, we’re here to help you feel confident in your next step.

Book your visit today and take control of your health, movement, and comfort—naturally and effectively.

Back spasms can strike suddenly, halting your movement and causing discomfort. Whether it’s a sharp jolt or a dull, cramping sensation, they’re often a sign from your body that something isn’t quite right. At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we aim to help you understand why they occur—and how chiropractic care can bring lasting relief.

Understanding Back Spasms and How Chiropractic Care Can Help

• What is a back spasm?
  A back spasm is a sudden, involuntary muscle contraction in the back, which can be painful and limit movement.
  Benefit: Chiropractic care helps calm irritated nerves and release muscle tension, aiding in relief.
• What causes back spasms?
  Common causes include poor posture, muscle fatigue, spinal misalignment, dehydration, or overuse.
  Benefit: Identifying the underlying cause with chiropractic care can help prevent future spasms.
• Are back spasms serious?
  While many spasms resolve on their own, recurring or intense spasms may indicate an underlying issue.
  Benefit: A chiropractic assessment can identify if spinal misalignments or nerve pressure are contributing factors.
• Can chiropractic care help with back spasms?
  Yes, gentle spinal adjustments can realign the spine, reduce nerve irritation, and relieve muscle tension.
  Benefit: Chiropractic care supports faster recovery and reduces the likelihood of spasms returning.
• What should I avoid when experiencing a spasm?
  Avoid heavy lifting, sudden twisting, and staying in one position for too long.
  Benefit: Gentle movement and proper posture promote healing without putting additional strain on your muscles.
• What can I do to prevent future spasms?
  Improving posture, staying active, hydrating, and strengthening your core muscles can all help prevent spasms.
  Benefit: These habits promote a stable, resilient spine and reduce muscle fatigue.
• When should I see a chiropractor?
  If your spasms are frequent, persistent, or interfering with your daily life, it’s time for a chiropractic evaluation.
  Benefit: Early chiropractic care can restore normal movement and break the cycle of recurring pain.

Relief Begins With the Right Care

Back spasms are common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. With the proper chiropractic care and guidance, you can regain freedom of movement and take control of your health.

Book your appointment with Miracle Life Chiropractic today—we’re here to help you feel better, faster.

As we age, our bodies naturally experience wear and tear—stiff joints, aches, pains, and reduced mobility become more common. However, growing older doesn’t mean you have to lose your active, independent lifestyle. Chiropractic care offers a gentle, drug-free approach to support healthy ageing and help your body function at its best.

At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we work with many older adults to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.

How Chiropractic Care Can Support Healthy Ageing

Improves Joint Mobility and Flexibility

As we age, stiffness in the spine, hips, and knees often sets in.

Benefit: Gentle chiropractic adjustments help keep joints moving, reducing that “creaky” feeling and improving flexibility.

Helps Manage Arthritis Symptoms

Many older adults live with osteoarthritis, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees.

Benefit: Chiropractic care can help reduce inflammation and ease joint discomfort without the need for medication.

Enhances Posture and Balance

Poor posture and spinal misalignments increase the risk of falls, a serious concern for older adults.

Benefit: Chiropractic adjustments support better posture, stability, and coordination, reducing fall risk.

Reduces Reliance on Medications

Pain medications are often prescribed to manage chronic issues, but they come with side effects.

Benefit: Chiropractic care provides a natural, non-invasive alternative that addresses the root cause of pain, rather than just masking symptoms.

Supports Nervous System Health

A healthy spine means better communication between the brain and body, influencing everything from movement to mood.

Benefit: Improved spinal health helps enhance mobility, digestion, energy, and emotional well-being.

Boosts Overall Well-being

When you feel more mobile, comfortable, and confident in your body, it positively impacts mental health and independence.

Benefit: Many seniors report feeling more energised and enjoying daily activities again after chiropractic care.

Gentle and Tailored Care

Chiropractic treatments for seniors are always customised to suit your health, history, and mobility level.

Benefit: Techniques are gentle, safe, and effective for individuals at all stages of ageing.

Helping You Stay Active, Independent & Well

Chiropractic care isn’t just for the young—it’s for the young at heart, too. Whether you want to walk more comfortably, reduce your reliance on pain medications, or simply improve your quality of life, we’re here to help.

Want to age well and stay moving?
Book a visit at Miracle Life Chiropractic today, and let’s work together to help you live life on your terms—strong, steady, and supported.

With over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen that back pain often stems from everyday habits, not just injuries. Small things like poor posture or staying too still can stress your spine, leading to discomfort and long-term issues. Here’s how you can start breaking bad habits and improve spinal health.

Back-Saving Habits to Start Today

• Stop Slouching—Start Stacking
Align your ears, shoulders, and hips in a straight line to reduce spinal pressure.

• Take Regular Movement Breaks
Stand, stretch, or walk for 2–5 minutes every 30–60 minutes to keep your spine mobile.

• Lift With Your Legs, Not Your Back
Bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting.

• Watch Your Screen Posture
Raise your screen to eye level and keep shoulders relaxed.

• Ditch the Heavy Bag
Use a backpack or switch shoulders frequently to balance weight.

• Strengthen Your Core
Add core exercises like planks to support your spine.

• Sleep With Spinal Support
Sleep on your back or side with a pillow between your knees.

• Be Mindful of How You Drive
Adjust your seat and take breaks during long trips to support your spine.

With over 30 years of experience in chiropractic care, I’ve seen firsthand how Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), or osteoarthritis, can impact people’s lives. While it’s often considered an inevitable part of aging, the truth is that proactive care can slow its progression, reduce pain, and improve mobility—without relying solely on medication or surgery.

What Causes DJD?

DJD develops when the cartilage that cushions your joints wears down over time. This can result from:

• Repetitive stress on joints from work, sports, or daily activities
• Poor posture that places uneven pressure on the spine and joints
• Previous injuries that never fully healed or led to compensations in movement
• Inflammation and lifestyle factors like diet, weight, and activity levels

As cartilage wears away, bones may rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. The most commonly affected areas are the spine, knees, hips, and hands.

Common Signs of DJD

• Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of rest
• Aches or sharp pain when moving or bearing weight
• Swelling or tenderness around the joint
• Grinding or popping sensations with movement
• Reduced flexibility and range of motion

How Chiropractic Care Helps Manage DJD

While DJD can’t be reversed, chiropractic care plays a crucial role in slowing its progression and improving quality of life. Over the years, I’ve helped countless patients regain mobility and reduce pain through:

• Gentle spinal and joint adjustments to improve alignment and reduce joint stress
• Postural correction to redistribute weight evenly and minimize wear and tear
• Mobility and flexibility techniques to keep joints moving freely
• Soft tissue work and muscle balancing to support joint stability
• Natural inflammation reduction through movement, circulation, and lifestyle guidance

By optimizing spinal and joint function, chiropractic care allows the body to move more efficiently, reducing the strain that contributes to further degeneration.

Other Ways to Support Your Joints

In addition to chiropractic adjustments, I always recommend:
Staying Active: Low-impact exercise (like swimming or walking) keeps joints mobile and reduces stiffness.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Less weight means less pressure on the spine, hips, and knees.
Eating Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Omega-3s, leafy greens, and antioxidant-rich foods support joint health.
Improving Posture & Ergonomics: Sitting and moving in alignment prevents excess joint strain.
Using Heat or Cold Therapy: Heat relaxes muscles and improves circulation, while cold reduces swelling.

Don’t Let Joint Pain Slow You Down

Degenerative Joint Disease doesn’t have to dictate how you live. With the right care, movement, and lifestyle adjustments, you can keep doing the things you love with less pain and greater freedom.

At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we take a holistic, natural approach to joint health, helping you move better, feel stronger, and enjoy life without unnecessary pain.

Book an appointment today and let’s work together to keep your joints—and your life—in mo

Chiropractic adjustments are widely known for relieving back and neck pain, but they offer much more. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or looking to improve your overall health, chiropractic care can make a powerful difference. At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping you live pain-free, move better, and enhance your quality of life—naturally.

How Chiropractic Adjustments Support Your Health

• Relieves Pain Naturally
Spinal misalignments (subluxations) are often the root cause of pain.
Benefit: Long-term relief without relying on painkillers or invasive treatments.

• Improves Posture
Poor posture can result from spinal imbalances or muscle compensation.
Benefit: Aligning the spine trains your body to maintain a natural, upright posture.

• Boosts Mobility and Flexibility
Misalignments can restrict joint movement and cause stiffness.
Benefit: Adjustments help restore joint motion and improve flexibility.

• Enhances Nervous System Function
The spine protects the spinal cord, which communicates with your entire body.
Benefit: Proper spinal alignment supports better communication between the brain and body, improving overall function.

• Reduces Tension and Stress
Misalignments can lead to tight muscles, poor sleep, and stress.
Benefit: Chiropractic care helps your body relax and recover naturally.

• Supports Injury Recovery
Chiropractic care helps speed up recovery from injuries like car accidents or sports strains.
Benefit: Reduces inflammation, promotes circulation, and restores healthy movement patterns.

• Improves Overall Wellbeing
A properly aligned spine supports optimal physical, mental, and emotional health.
Benefit: Many report improved energy, sleep, mood, and focus with regular chiropractic care.

Your Spine: The Foundation of Health

When your spine is aligned, your entire body functions better. From your joints and muscles to your digestion, sleep, and mood, everything improves. At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we offer gentle, effective adjustments to help you stay in balance and promote healing naturally.

Ready to experience the benefits?
Book your appointment today and discover how chiropractic can improve your health and wellbeing.

As a chiropractor with over 30 years of experience, I can tell you that chiropractic care isn’t just for adults—it can provide significant benefits for children too. From the moment they’re born, children go through a series of physical changes and challenges as their bodies grow and develop. At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we provide gentle, safe, and individualised care to support children’s health at every stage of life. Whether they are infants, toddlers, or teenagers, chiropractic care can help foster their growth and well-being naturally.

Why Chiropractic Care Is Beneficial for Children

Supports Healthy Development

The spine and nervous system are fundamental to a child’s growth and development. Regular chiropractic check-ups ensure proper spinal alignment, which is essential as their body grows.

Benefit: Helps ensure that your child’s spine and nervous system develop properly, supporting overall health.

Promotes Proper Posture and Movement

In today’s world, kids are carrying heavy school bags, sitting at desks for long periods, and spending hours in front of screens. This can take a toll on their posture and movement.

Benefit: Chiropractic adjustments can improve posture, coordination, and balance, allowing your child to move more freely and comfortably.

Addresses Common Childhood Complaints

Children often face issues such as colic, reflux, ear infections, or difficulty sleeping. Chiropractic care can help by supporting the nervous system and promoting better function.

Benefit: Chiropractic adjustments may reduce the severity of these common complaints and help your child feel more comfortable.

Eases Tension from Birth or Early Falls

The birth process itself can be a traumatic experience for a baby’s spine, and early falls or tumbles can cause lingering tension in the body.

Benefit: Gentle chiropractic adjustments can relieve tension from birth trauma or early physical strains, promoting natural healing.

Boosts Immune and Nervous System Function

A properly functioning nervous system is key to overall health, impacting everything from immune function to digestion.

Benefit: Chiropractic care can enhance your child’s immune system, helping them fight off illnesses and recover more quickly.

Promotes Calmness and Better Sleep

Nervous system imbalances can interfere with a child’s ability to relax and sleep well. Chiropractic care can help restore balance to the nervous system.

Benefit: Many parents notice improved sleep, better moods, and calmer behavior in their children after receiving chiropractic care.

Non-Invasive and Safe for Little Bodies

Chiropractic techniques for children are not the same as those for adults. Adjustments are much gentler and tailored specifically for a child’s age, size, and individual needs.

Benefit: Chiropractic care for children is non-invasive, safe, and designed to be as gentle as possible for their developing bodies.

Chiropractic Care That Grows With Your Child

At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we provide holistic care that adapts to your child’s changing needs. Whether it’s a check-up for a newborn, support for a toddler, or guidance through the challenges of teen growth and development, we’re here to support your child’s health at every stage.

Curious about chiropractic care for your child?
Book a consultation today and discover how gentle, tailored chiropractic care can help your child grow strong, balanced, and full of energy.

As a chiropractor with over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen how daily stretching is essential for maintaining a healthy, pain-free body. Whether you’re sitting at a desk, chasing after kids, or spending long hours on your feet, tight muscles and joints are common. Adding a few simple stretches to your daily routine can make a big difference in your flexibility, mobility, and even sleep quality.

At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we recommend these easy stretches to keep your spine and muscles in optimal condition—no equipment needed!

Daily Stretches to Improve Flexibility, Mobility, & Pain Relief

Neck Stretch

Gently tilt your head to one side, bringing your ear toward your shoulder. Hold for 20–30 seconds on each side.

Benefit: Relieves tension from desk work, phone use, and stress.

Shoulder Rolls

Roll your shoulders forward and backward in large circles. Repeat 10 times in each direction.

Benefit: Improves posture and reduces upper back and neck tension.

Chest Opener

Clasp your hands behind your back and lift your arms, opening your chest.

Benefit: Counteracts slouching and expands the lungs.

Cat-Cow Stretch

On all fours, alternate between arching your back (Cat) and dipping it (Cow). Breathe deeply.

Benefit: Increases spinal mobility and warms up the back.

Hip Flexor Stretch

Step one foot forward into a lunge, keeping your back leg straight and pelvis tucked under. Hold each side.

Benefit: Relieves tight hips from sitting for long periods.

Hamstring Stretch

Sit or stand and gently reach for your toes with a flat back. Avoid bouncing.

Benefit: Loosens tight hamstrings, reducing strain on the lower back.

Spinal Twist

Sit cross-legged or on a chair. Twist your torso to each side, using your opposite hand on your knee for support.

Benefit: Releases tension and improves spinal mobility.

Child’s Pose

Kneel and reach your arms forward, sitting back onto your heels.

Benefit: Gently stretches the back, hips, and shoulders, calming the nervous system.

Keep It Simple, Keep It Daily

Just a few minutes of stretching daily can prevent stiffness, improve posture, and reduce injury risk. Combine these stretches with regular chiropractic care for even better results. Proper spinal alignment helps your body move and stretch efficiently.

Ready to feel better?
Book your next adjustment at Miracle Life Chiropractic today, and let’s support your body’s natural rhythm—stretch by stretch, spine by spine.

The Pros and Cons of Shoe Lifts

Shoe lifts—also known as heel lifts or orthotic inserts—are commonly used to correct leg length differences, improve posture, or reduce pain. But do they actually work? As a chiropractor with over 30 years of experience, I’ve seen many patients ask about their effectiveness, especially for chronic back, hip, or knee pain. Here’s what you need to know before using shoe lifts.

They Can Help with Leg Length Differences

A true leg length discrepancy can cause poor alignment and strain on the spine and joints.

Benefit: A properly measured lift can help balance the pelvis and reduce stress on your spine.

Useful for Certain Injuries or Conditions

Shoe lifts are sometimes used after surgeries or injuries, like hip surgery or Achilles tendon issues, to reduce strain during recovery.

Benefit: They help promote balanced movement during recovery.

Can Relieve Pain

For conditions like scoliosis, pelvic tilts, or lower back pain, shoe lifts can provide temporary relief by adjusting leg height.

Benefit: Helps alleviate muscle imbalances and joint stress when used correctly.

They Don’t Address the Root Cause

Not all leg length discrepancies are anatomical—many are functional, due to muscle imbalances or spinal misalignment.

Consideration: A shoe lift may mask the underlying issue rather than fix it.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Over-the-counter lifts are often generic and may not fit your body properly.

Risk: Using the wrong lift can cause new issues, like knee or hip pain.

Best Used with Chiropractic Care

If misalignment is the root cause of the problem, chiropractic care can help address it while a lift may provide temporary relief.

Best Approach: Have your posture and spine assessed before using a shoe lift.

The Bottom Line

Shoe lifts can be helpful for leg length differences, but they aren’t a cure-all. Many cases of pain are linked to spinal or postural imbalances, not leg length.

At Miracle Life Chiropractic, we offer a holistic approach to your health. If you’re considering shoe lifts or dealing with chronic discomfort, we’ll assess the root cause and provide a personalised solution.

Curious if a shoe lift is right for you?
Book a posture and spinal assessment today, and we’ll help you find the solution that works for you.

Your neck might seem like just a support system for your head, but it’s a complex, sensitive structure with its own “language.” When something isn’t right, your neck often tries to warn you before you even notice. After over 30 years of experience in chiropractic care, I’ve seen how your neck communicates with you. Here’s what your neck knows that you might not:

1. Posture Problems Are Adding Up

Every slouch and forward head posture (“text neck”) places strain on your cervical spine. Over time, poor posture leads to discomfort or stiffness that builds up gradually. Your neck is trying to tell you it needs proper alignment and care.

2. Stress Is Holding Tight

You might feel mental pressure, but your neck also feels the physical strain. Stress often manifests as tightness or soreness in your neck muscles. Even if you haven’t connected the dots yet, your neck knows when stress is taking its toll.

3. Your Habits Are Aging It

Daily habits—like sleeping without support, sitting for long hours, or skipping stretches—can prematurely age your neck. Without proper care, you may experience reduced mobility or chronic discomfort. Your neck is aging, and it’s asking for attention.

4. Ignoring Pain Isn’t the Solution

A stiff neck or recurring soreness may seem like it will eventually pass, but your neck knows better. Pain is often a signal that deeper issues, like misalignments or muscle strain, are present. Ignoring it now can lead to bigger problems down the road.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractors speak the language of your neck. With over three decades of experience, we can decode its signals and provide the relief you need:

• Spinal Adjustments: Gentle realignments reduce tension and improve function.
• Muscle Relaxation Techniques: Targeted therapies relieve stress and restore mobility.
• Personalised Guidance: Tailored advice on posture, habits, and lifestyle to prevent future discomfort.

Reconnect with Your Neck

Your neck deserves more than temporary relief—it deserves lasting care. Chiropractic care helps rejuvenate your neck, making it feel stronger, healthier, and more supported than ever before.

Ready to listen to your neck? Book an appointment with Miracle Life Chiropractic today. Let our expert team decode the signals your neck is sending and guide you toward lasting relief and better well-being.