I would like to take the time to share my story and experience regarding my spine. As a child and teenager, my days were plagued by back pain. My lower back ached after doing simple exercises, sitting for long periods, or jogging. As I got older, the pains became more regular and more severe. Finally, a close friend encouraged me to go see a chiropractor. I had no idea what chiropractic was all about.

My experience as a patient was phenomenal. The pain in my spine quickly went away and I began to notice incredible changes in my posture. I had once thought “I have back problems due to genetics”. What I learned was that my lifestyle choices like poor posture, weak core muscles, constant dehydration, and major subluxations were causing my back health problems, but they were correctable.

After 6 months of chiropractic care I was able to run without pain. My lower back was brand new, I was able to do things I never thought possible before. Due to my new biomechanics I was able to run a marathon without formal training in 4 months. Wow, what a great achievement. The next two years were filled with more careers and more chiropractic care. In 2008 I was lucky enough to run a 3 hour marathon and qualify for the Boston Marathon!

My life has changed forever since my experiences in the chiropractic office. Chiropractic had such an impact on me that I am now proud to report that I am a Doctor of Chiropractic myself. Being a Kirkland chiropractor is great. I have the ability to guide people to amazing changes through chiropractic and health education. I recommend everyone I know to take care of their spine by having regular check-ups with a doctor of chiropractic.

Why is alignment so crucial for a marathon runner? When your joints have the proper range of motion, they can function at their highest level. This leads to running economy, which is essential for someone who does many miles on foot. When a person has an uneven pelvis, they are prone to running injuries such as facet syndrome, low back pain, premature joint degeneration, muscle strain, and ligament sprains. There was a major study done by the Blue Cross of Illinois that showed that people who use chiropractic care spend less money on health care annually. This can be attributed to fewer back surgeries and days missed from work.

As a runner and chiropractor, I like to educate people on how to maintain proper posture. This is accomplished by evaluating patients’ joints for proper motion and alignment.