​Despite medical advancements an emphasis on health and wellness, Americans have a shorter average life expectancy than almost all other high-income countries. In fact, the U.S. ranked 31st in the world for life expectancy beginning in 2015.

Thankfully for us, this has more to do with poor habits than it does with environmental factors or medical advancements—adhering to healthy lifestyle can boost the quality and length of your life by a decade or more.

A study from Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health, which was over 30 years in the making, has managed to narrow down the top five habits and priorities you should work into your everyday life. And, they mirror this guidance Chiropractors have been providing for more than 125 years.

I encourage you to ‘dare to be different’ and adopt these 5 common sense habits that will keep you living life on your terms longer:

•Focus on eating whole foods like fresh fruits and veggies; avoid processed foods.
•Move your body everyday; no time for a full workout today? Evening walks can be just as effective.
•Strive to maintain a comfortable, healthy body weight.
•Drink in moderation (if you drink); no more than 1 glass per day for women or 2 for men.
•Avoid smoking and tobacco

​If you or a loved one would like to live a long, healthy life, talk to Dr. Dukes. She can advise you on the best habits and means of living longer naturally – without addictive drugs nor invasive surgeries.

​It's obvious that sky-rocketing healthcare costs are out of control. Patients, insurance companies and even the government is seeking ways contain healthcare costs while maintaining quality of care. The good news is that a 4-year study published in JAMA Internal Medicine medical journal revealed that chiropractic is a cost-effective option for health care with benefits that extend beyond just the basic neck and back pain. In a time where we are faced with rising medical costs and an opioid epidemic, utilizing conservative, non-pharmaceutical treatment options is vital. Chiropractic has been proven both safe, and effective. Additionally, patients of chiropractors report a high level of satisfaction with the care they have received.

The studies key findings revealed that those initiating treatment through conservative chiropractic care for back-pain specific treatment, the cost & time savings were substantial:

• 28% lower average cost per episode
• Fewer inpatient stays: 9.3 vs 15.6 per 1000 patients
• Fewer imaging orders: 43.2 MRI’s ordered vs 68.9 MRI’s ordered per 1000 patients
• Fewer back surgeries: 3.3 vs 4.8 surgical procedures per 1000 patients
• Fewer x-rays: 17.5 vs 22.7 per 1000 patients

​While more extensive care is sometimes needed, by beginning with conservative, non-pharmaceutical care, you reduce your chance of needing opioid medications or surgery. You also avoid the associated side effects, lengthy recovery time and risks that accompany them. Plus, with medical costs rising, this study shows you will also most likely reduce your overall health care costs.

If you or a loved one are experiencing back or neck pain, talk to Dr. Dukes about how chiropractic can help. Dr. Dukes will perform a complete exam and, if appropriate, will develop a treatment plan to address your condition. In addition to spinal manipulation, nutrition, modalities, and rehab exercises, Dr. Dukes can order additional testing as well as provide a referral to another health care provider if needed.