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Physical Medicine

Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc: Understanding the Differences

Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc: Understanding the Differences

Spinal health is crucial for our overall well-being, yet many people don’t fully understand common conditions like bulging discs and herniated discs. 

Knowing the differences can help you seek the right treatment and manage symptoms effectively.

Let’s check them out in more detail and cover some ways that you can treat them today!


What is a Bulging Disc?

A bulging disc happens when the outer layer of a spinal disc, known as the annulus, pushes outwards. 

Think of it as a hamburger that’s too big for its bun, causing it to bulge but not break. 

This can result from aging, poor posture, or repetitive movements. 

While bulging discs can cause pain and discomfort, many people don’t experience significant symptoms.

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc, sometimes called a ruptured or slipped disc, occurs when the inner gel-like material (the nucleus) leaks out through a tear in the outer layer. 

This can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness, often in the arms or legs. 

Imagine a jelly doughnut with the filling oozing out; this is more likely to cause noticeable and often severe symptoms compared to a bulging disc.

Key Differences Between a Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc

While both conditions affect the spinal discs, a bulging disc usually involves a larger portion of the disc and doesn’t always press on nerves. 

A herniated disc involves a rupture that more often impacts nerve roots, leading to more pronounced symptoms.

Causes and Risk Factors

Both conditions can result from aging and degeneration, but other factors include:

  • Obesity 
  • Sedentary lifestyles 
  • Poor posture 
  • Smoking 
  • Physically demanding jobs

Genetics can also make some people more prone to these issues.

Diagnosis

Doctors typically diagnose these conditions through a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. 

These tests help determine the exact location and severity of the disc damage and its effect on surrounding nerves.

Healthcare experts like physical therapists also often use a series of tests and questions to get a clearer picture of whether an injury is a bulging or herniated disc.

Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc Treatment Options

Treating these is different for different people – your symptoms, degree of injury, and other factors determine what the best course of action is.

Let’s check out a couple examples:

Conservative Treatments

Many people manage their symptoms with conservative treatments, such as:

  • Physical Therapy: Customized exercises to strengthen the back and improve flexibility.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, muscle relaxants (stiff and tight muscles can cause back pain), and anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, quitting smoking, and ergonomic adjustments in daily activities.

Advanced Treatments at Frontier Physical Medicine

At Frontier Physical Medicine, we offer a range of advanced treatments tailored to individual needs:

  • Chiropractic Care: Realign the spine, reduce nerve pressure, and alleviate pain.
  • Physical Therapy: Personalized programs to strengthen the spine and improve overall function.
  • Regenerative Medicine: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
  • Functional Medicine: A holistic approach to treat underlying causes and promote overall health.
  • Non-Surgical Decompression: Spinal decompression therapy relieves pressure on the spinal discs and nerves.
  • Interventional Procedures: Minimally invasive treatments for pain relief and improved mobility.

Prevention and Management Tips

Preventing disc issues involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle:

  • Exercise Regularly: Strengthen your core muscles to support your spine.
  • Maintain Good Posture: Proper posture reduces strain on the spine.
  • Lift Properly: Use your legs to lift heavy objects, not your back.
  • Healthy Weight: Reduce excess weight to minimize stress on the spine.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking can accelerate disc degeneration.

Why Choose Frontier Physical Medicine?

Frontier Physical Medicine is dedicated to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care for those with bulging or herniated discs. 

Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art techniques and personalized treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a bulging or herniated disc, don’t wait. 

Contact Frontier Physical Medicine today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you regain your health and mobility!

FAQs

Can a bulging disc turn into a herniated disc?
Yes, if the outer layer of the bulging disc ruptures, it can become a herniated disc.

What lifestyle changes can help manage disc problems?
Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and avoiding activities that strain the back can help.

How effective are non-surgical treatments?
Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, chiropractic care, and regenerative medicine can be highly effective for many patients.

When should surgery be considered?
Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms after several weeks, or if there is significant nerve compression causing severe pain or weakness.

Categories
Back Pain

How Can Stiff and Tight Muscles Cause Back Pain?

How Can Stiff and Tight Muscles Cause Back Pain?

Back pain is a widespread issue that affects many people.  A major cause of this discomfort is stiff and tight muscles.  Knowing how these muscle problems can lead to back pain is important for finding relief and maintaining good health… Let’s check out how stiff and tight muscles cause back pain, and what you can do about it!

FAQ

How can tight muscles result in back pain? Tight muscles can cause back pain by limiting flexibility, changing your posture, and putting extra pressure on your spine and nerves. How can stiff and tight muscles result in back pain? Stiff and tight muscles can reduce your movement, cause poor posture, and increase stress on your spine, all of which can lead to back pain. Can stiffness cause back pain? Yes, stiffness can cause back pain by making it hard to move and adding strain to your back. What happens when muscles feel tight? When muscles feel tight, they can become less flexible, more painful, and may lead to muscle spasms or poor posture. Can muscles cause chronic back pain? Yes, tight and stiff muscles can cause chronic back pain if they are not treated properly. How to loosen tight back muscles? You can loosen tight back muscles by stretching, doing yoga, getting massages, staying active, and using heat therapy. What is the fastest way to fix tight muscles? The fastest way to fix tight muscles is usually a combination of stretching, massage, and applying heat. Does walking loosen tight back muscles? Yes, walking can help loosen tight back muscles by increasing blood flow and promoting movement. What is the best position to sit in with lower back pain? The best position to sit in with lower back pain is with your back straight, feet flat on the floor, and using a chair that supports your lower back.  

How Muscles Support Your Back

Muscles are important for keeping your back strong and aligned.  They work together with your bones and ligaments to help you move and stay upright, which can become difficult when you’re in pain or feeling stiff. When your muscles are strong and flexible, they provide the necessary support to your back, helping to prevent pain. 

Why Do Muscles Become Stiff and Tight?

There are several reasons why muscles can become stiff and tight:
  • Lack of Movement: Not being active enough can cause muscles to weaken and become stiff. Regular movement helps keep muscles flexible and strong, reducing the chance of tightness.
  • Poor Posture: Sitting or standing incorrectly for long periods can strain muscles and make them tight. Poor posture can lead to muscle imbalances and unnecessary strain on your back.
  • Overworking or Injuries: Excessive physical activity or repetitive movements can lead to muscle fatigue and tightness. When muscles are overused, they can become sore and tense.
  • Stress: Emotional stress can cause your muscles, especially in your back and shoulders, to tense up. Stress can lead to muscle tension and pain, as the body reacts to stress by tightening muscles.

How Can Stiff and Tight Muscles Cause Back Pain?

When your back muscles become stiff and tight, they can lead to back pain in several ways:
  1. Reduced Mobility: Tight muscles can restrict your movement, causing discomfort. Limited flexibility can make everyday activities painful and challenging.
  2. Postural Imbalance: Stiff muscles can pull your body out of alignment, adding stress to your spine. This imbalance can cause pain and further muscle tightness.
  3. Increased Spinal Pressure: Tight muscles can compress spinal discs and nerves, leading to pain. Pressure on the spine can result in chronic back issues and nerve pain.
  4. Muscle Spasms: Very tight muscles can suddenly contract, causing sharp pain. Muscle spasms are often painful and can limit your ability to move.

Which Muscles Can Cause Back Pain?

Certain muscles in your body can become tight and contribute to back pain:

Erector Spinae 

These muscles run along your spine and help you stand upright.  Tightness here can cause lower back pain, making it difficult to bend or twist.

Quadratus Lumborum 

Located in your lower back, this muscle can get tight from sitting too long or poor posture.  When tight, it can cause pain on one or both sides of your lower back.

Latissimus Dorsi

This large back muscle can become tight from overuse, leading to upper and mid-back pain.  Tightness in this muscle can also affect shoulder movement.

Hamstrings

Tight hamstrings can pull on your lower back muscles, causing discomfort.  When these muscles are tight, they can tilt your pelvis and increase lower back strain.

Hip Flexors

When these muscles are tight, they can tilt your pelvis forward and strain your lower back.  Tight hip flexors can lead to pain and decreased mobility.

Preventing and Treating Muscle-Related Back Pain

Here are some ways to prevent and treat back pain caused by stiff and tight muscles:
  • Stay Active: Engage in activities that strengthen and stretch your muscles, like yoga and regular stretching exercises. Keeping active helps maintain muscle flexibility and strength.
  • Maintain Good Posture: Sit, stand, and move in ways that keep your body properly aligned. Use supportive furniture when necessary. Good posture reduces the strain on your muscles and spine.
  • Take Breaks: Avoid sitting for too long. Take breaks to stretch and move around. Frequent movement helps prevent muscle stiffness.
  • Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or hobbies you enjoy to reduce muscle tension. Reducing stress can help keep your muscles relaxed.
  • Seek Professional Help: If your back pain persists, consult the specialists at Frontier Physical Medicine. We can create a personalized treatment plan for you.

Treat Your Back Pain With Frontier Physical Medicine

At Frontier Physical Medicine, we offer a variety of services to help you manage and treat back pain caused by stiff and tight muscles:
  • Chiropractic Care: Our chiropractors use spinal adjustments to relieve pain and improve your back’s function. Regular chiropractic care can help keep your spine aligned and muscles relaxed.
  • Physical Therapy: Customized physical therapy programs help strengthen and stretch your muscles to reduce tightness and pain. Our physical therapists design exercises specifically for your needs.
  • Massage Therapy: Therapeutic massages relax your muscles and improve blood flow, promoting healing and relief from pain. Massage can also reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
  • Trigger Point Injections: These injections can help relieve muscle tension and reduce pain. They target specific areas of muscle tightness to provide relief.
  • Rehabilitation Programs: Tailored rehabilitation programs ensure a comprehensive approach to recovery and prevention of future injuries. Our programs are designed to help you regain strength and flexibility.

Conclusion

Stiff and tight muscles can cause back pain, but there are many ways you can fix it. Stay active and moving often, learn about good posture, and manage stress to keep your muscles healthy and pain-free. For expert help and personalized treatment, contact Frontier Physical Medicine.

FAQ

How can tight muscles result in back pain? Tight muscles can cause back pain by limiting flexibility, changing your posture, and putting extra pressure on your spine and nerves. How can stiff and tight muscles result in back pain? Stiff and tight muscles can reduce your movement, cause poor posture, and increase stress on your spine, all of which can lead to back pain. Can stiffness cause back pain? Yes, stiffness can cause back pain by making it hard to move and adding strain to your back. What happens when muscles feel tight? When muscles feel tight, they can become less flexible, more painful, and may lead to muscle spasms or poor posture. Can muscles cause chronic back pain? Yes, tight and stiff muscles can cause chronic back pain if they are not treated properly. How to loosen tight back muscles? You can loosen tight back muscles by stretching, doing yoga, getting massages, staying active, and using heat therapy. What is the fastest way to fix tight muscles? The fastest way to fix tight muscles is usually a combination of stretching, massage, and applying heat. Does walking loosen tight back muscles? Yes, walking can help loosen tight back muscles by increasing blood flow and promoting movement. What is the best position to sit in with lower back pain? The best position to sit in with lower back pain is with your back straight, feet flat on the floor, and using a chair that supports your lower back.  
Categories
Back Pain Physical Medicine

What is the Newest Treatment for Spinal Stenosis?

What is the Newest Treatment for Spinal Stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces in your spine become narrow. 

This can squeeze the nerves that travel through the spine, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. 

It’s important to find good treatments for spinal stenosis to help people feel better and stay active.

Let’s check what the newest treatments for spinal stenosis are!

Understanding Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis often happens because of aging

As we get older, our spinal canal can get smaller because of things like thickened ligaments, bone spurs, or herniated discs

This can press on the nerves in the spine and cause pain. 

Symptoms can include back pain, leg pain, and trouble walking.

Traditional Treatments for Spinal Stenosis

There are several ways to treat spinal stenosis:

  • Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage symptoms but do not fix the problem.
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises and manual therapy can improve movement and strength, providing some relief and a great way to manage symptoms
  • Surgery: In serious cases, surgery might be needed to remove parts that are pressing on the nerves.

These treatments can help, but they often come with risks and side effects.

Newest Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis

You might be asking: “how do you fix spinal stenosis without surgery?

Well, new treatments are now available that are less invasive and can be more effective. 

These treatments include:

1. Minimally Invasive Procedures  

These treatments involve smaller cuts and less damage to tissues. 

For example, minimally invasive surgery can remove parts pressing on nerves with smaller incisions. 

Frontier Physical Medicine specializes in these types of procedures, helping patients recover faster with fewer complications.

2. Regenerative Medicine  

Treatments like stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections use the body’s own healing abilities to repair damage and reduce inflammation. 

PRP injections can be particularly effective in promoting healing and reducing pain in spinal stenosis patients.

3. Advanced Technologies  

New tools and imaging techniques allow for more precise treatments, making them safer and more effective. 

4. Chiropractic Treatment  

Chiropractic care involves adjusting the spine to relieve pressure on nerves and improve alignment. 

This can help reduce pain and improve movement without surgery. 

At Frontier Physical Medicine, experienced chiropractors like Dr. Jensen use gentle spinal adjustments to help patients find relief from spinal stenosis symptoms.

5. Spinal Decompression Therapy  

This non-surgical treatment gently stretches the spine to relieve pressure on nerves.

It can improve blood flow and help with healing, providing pain relief. 

We offer spinal decompression therapy as part of our comprehensive approach to treating spinal stenosis, helping our patients experience significant improvements in their symptoms.

Benefits of the Newest Treatments

These new treatments for spinal stenosis offer many benefits:

  • Faster Recovery: Patients often recover quicker and can return to their daily activities sooner.
  • Lower Risk: These treatments generally have fewer risks compared to traditional surgery.
  • Long-Lasting Relief: By addressing the root causes, these treatments aim to provide lasting relief from symptoms.

Conclusion

New treatments for spinal stenosis are making a big difference in how this condition is managed. 

Minimally invasive procedures, regenerative medicine, chiropractic treatment, and spinal decompression therapy are effective and often safer alternatives to traditional methods. 

Frontier Physical Medicine stands at the forefront of these advancements, providing cutting-edge care with a focus on patient-centric principles. 

If you or someone you know has spinal stenosis, consider these new treatment options to help improve your quality of life.

Contact us today to learn more and find the best treatment for you!

FAQs

What is the most successful treatment for spinal stenosis?

The most successful treatment for spinal stenosis often depends on the severity of the condition and the individual patient’s needs. Minimally invasive procedures, such as spinal decompression surgery, have high success rates. Regenerative medicine treatments like stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are also showing promising results. For many patients, a combination of physical therapy, chiropractic care, and these advanced treatments can provide significant relief.

What is the best non-surgical treatment for spinal stenosis?

The best non-surgical treatment for spinal stenosis often includes a combination of physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and spinal decompression therapy. Regenerative medicine treatments like PRP injections can also be highly effective. These treatments aim to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves, reduce inflammation, and improve spinal function without the need for surgery.

Who is the best doctor to treat spinal stenosis?

The best doctor to treat spinal stenosis is typically a specialist in spine health, such as an orthopedic surgeon, a neurologist, or a pain management specialist. Chiropractors and physical therapists with experience in spinal conditions can also provide excellent care. It’s important to choose a healthcare provider with a track record of successfully treating spinal stenosis and who offers the latest treatment options.

What worsens spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis can worsen with activities that put extra stress on the spine. Prolonged sitting or standing, heavy lifting, and high-impact exercises can aggravate the condition. Poor posture and lack of regular physical activity can also contribute to worsening symptoms. Managing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of progression.

What not to do with spinal stenosis?

With spinal stenosis, it’s important to avoid activities that strain the spine. Avoid heavy lifting, high-impact sports, and exercises that involve twisting or bending the spine excessively. Prolonged periods of sitting or standing should also be minimized. Practicing good posture and engaging in low-impact exercises, such as swimming or walking, can help manage symptoms.

Will I end up in a wheelchair with spinal stenosis?

While spinal stenosis can cause significant pain and mobility issues, most people do not end up in a wheelchair. With appropriate treatment and lifestyle adjustments, most patients can manage their symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing severe disability.

How do you stop spinal stenosis from progressing?

To stop spinal stenosis from progressing, it’s important to stay active with low-impact exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the strain on the spine. Regular physical therapy, chiropractic care, and other non-surgical treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent further narrowing of the spinal canal. It’s also important to avoid activities that exacerbate the condition and to follow a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Categories
Back Pain Physical Medicine

How Do You Fix Spinal Stenosis Without Surgery?

Spinal stenosis can cause significant discomfort and disrupt your daily life. 

Many people assume or are told that surgery is the only solution, but that’s not true.

At Frontier Physical Medicine, we specialize in minimally invasive treatments that provide relief without the need for surgery. 

Today, we’ll explore how to fix spinal stenosis without surgery and how our powerful approaches can help.

Let’s dive in!

What Is Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spaces in your spine, which puts pressure on the nerves that travel through it. 

This can lead to a bunch of things, especially pain, numbness, or weakness, and affects many of your daily movements and activities.

Causes of Spinal Stenosis

There are several  causes of spinal stenosis, including age-related changes that affect our body and joints as we get older.

Spinal stenosis can be caused by arthritis, herniated discs, thickened or injured ligaments, and spinal and/or back injuries.

Spinal Stenosis Symptoms

Spinal stenosis comes with a host of symptoms, and different people are affected in different ways.

That said, common symptoms include:

  • Back and/or neck pain
  • Tingling and/or numbness in your arms and legs
  • Weakness in your arms or legs
  • Difficulty or pain when standing or walking for longer periods of time

Spinal Stenosis Surgery Risks

While surgery can be an option, it comes with risks like infection, blood clots, and lengthy recovery times.

Surgery should usually only be used as a last resort, as it doesn’t always guarantee relief and can sometimes even worsen the condition. 

Therefore, exploring non-surgical treatments is important, and you should consider the treatments that align best with your condition and needs.

Non-Surgical Spinal Stenosis Therapies

At Frontier Physical Medicine, we offer many non-surgical treatments tailored to manage and alleviate spinal stenosis symptoms effectively.

Here are a couple ways you can fix spinal stenosis without surgery:

Chiropractic Care

Experienced chiropractic doctors (like our team), use gentle adjustments to realign the spine, relieve pressure on nerves, and improve overall spinal function. 

Chiropractic care can be an effective way to reduce pain and enhance mobility.

Physical Rehabilitation

Customized exercise programs can strengthen and stretch muscles around your spine, improving flexibility and reducing pain. 

Our physical rehabilitation experts work closely with you to develop an exercise routine that suits your condition and lifestyle, equipping you with the tools needed to reduce pain, improve strength, and manage flare-ups.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

We offer advanced, minimally invasive procedures that target the root cause of your back pain without the need for surgery. 

These treatments are designed to reduce inflammation and promote healing naturally. 

These can include:

  • Trigger point injections
  • Exercises
  • Medical massage
  • Regenerative medicine
  • Shockwave therapy
  • And more!

Treating Spinal Stenosis With Frontier Physical Medicine

At Frontier Physical Medicine, we pride ourselves on our patient-centric approach.

Our team of skilled healthcare professionals work together to create personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs and struggles with spinal stenosis. 

Our goal is to help you live a pain-free life without resorting to surgery or heavy medications.

Contact us if you’re ready to begin!

Conclusion

If you’re wondering “how do you fix spinal stenosis without surgery,” Frontier Physical Medicine offers effective, minimally invasive options.

From chiropractic care and physical rehabilitation to therapeutic exercise and advanced procedures, we have the expertise to help you find relief. 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in managing spinal stenosis and improving your quality of life.

FAQs

How do you fix spinal stenosis without surgery?

At Frontier Physical Medicine, we offer several non-surgical treatments for spinal stenosis, including chiropractic care, physical rehab, therapeutic exercise, and minimally invasive procedures. These therapies aim to reduce pain and improve your quality of life without the need for surgery.

What is the best treatment for spinal stenosis?

The best treatment for spinal stenosis depends on your specific condition and needs. Our team at Frontier Physical Medicine tailors treatment plans to each patient, combining chiropractic care, physical rehabilitation, and advanced procedures to achieve the best outcomes.

At what point does spinal stenosis require surgery?

Surgery is considered when non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, or if there is significant pain, weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control. It’s important to consult with a specialist to determine the best approach for your condition.

What is the best way to live with spinal stenosis?

Living with spinal stenosis involves managing symptoms through regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and following a comprehensive pain management plan. Our team at Frontier Physical Medicine can help you develop strategies to manage your condition effectively.

How do you stop spinal stenosis from progressing?

To prevent spinal stenosis from getting worse, it’s essential to stay active, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and avoid activities that strain your spine. Our providers can guide you through exercises that strengthen your core and improve flexibility, helping to slow the progression of spinal stenosis.

What worsens spinal stenosis?

Factors that can worsen spinal stenosis include poor posture, improper lifting techniques, high-impact sports, and obesity. Avoiding these and following your doctor’s recommendations can help manage the condition and prevent it from worsening.

Categories
Physical Medicine

What is Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation?

It’s not shocking news that many people all around the world suffer from pain in their neck, lower back, knees, or shoulders. Anyone who has experienced this realizes how consuming it can be. Most people who have experienced it will go to great lengths to feel some kind of relief. Many people spend thousands of dollars trying to find a cure when they should be looking for ways to help manage. While most medical professionals are seeking a medical cure, there are specific specialists that are there to help treat and find the best ways to help manage it.

Physical medicine includes many ways to improve and restore functional capacity and quality of life for people who have disorders, disabilities, injuries, or simply because of aging. It is the process of diagnosis, treatment, education, and rehabilitation. Specialists have a broad range of knowledge, including neurology (nerves, nervous system), musculoskeletal (bones, muscles) and rheumatology (joints, muscles, ligaments). Some physicians complete additional training in sports medicine, pediatrics, brain injury, and pain medicine.

What is the Purpose of Physical Medicine?

The purpose of physical medicine is to enable anyone to enhance their overall health, performance, and well-being. It is important because it will help give you tools and resources to help manage your condition after learning about it. You will work together to develop a specific strategy to restore movement and function using non-surgical treatment options, which may include therapeutic exercises, stretching, adjustments, manual manipulations, massages, injections, braces, or other assistive devices utilizing a variety of technologies. The goal is to enhance performance and functionality to improve the quality of life without surgical intervention, to increase independence with daily living activities, and to decrease pain.

Types of Pain and What Causes Them?

There are two sorts of pain: acute and chronic.

Acute pain is a common reaction to an injury or illness. It usually begins abruptly and lasts only a few minutes.

Chronic pain is pain that lasts longer than intended. It usually lasts for more than three months. Pain can range from a faint ache to a sharp stab, and it can be minor to severe. You may experience discomfort in only one portion of your body or throughout your entire body.

The following are the most common causes of pain in adults:

Surgery for injuries and medical conditions (such as cancer, arthritis, and back difficulties).

At Frontier Physical Medicine, we specialize in helping out those in need to become strong and live a happy and healthy life. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.