Auriculotherapy or ear acupuncture) is a natural treatment system based on the idea that the outer ear is a microsystem reflecting the entire body. By stimulating specific ear points—using needles, acupressure seeds, electrical impulses, or lasers—practitioners aim to influence corresponding organs, systems, or functions.
Here are the main benefits supported by clinical use and growing research:
1. Pain Relief
2. Addiction and Craving Control
3. Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep
4. Digestive and Metabolic Support
5. Neurological and Emotional Balance
6. Circulation and Inflammation
7. Accessible and Safe
Summary
Auricular therapy offers a versatile, drug-free approach for pain relief, stress reduction, addiction support, metabolic balance, and overall wellness. By stimulating the body’s own healing mechanisms, it provides a holistic complement to chiropractic care, nutritional therapy, and lifestyle change.
Pain is one of the body’s most important signals. It’s the body’s way of saying, “Something is wrong—pay attention.” Unfortunately, modern healthcare too often suppresses pain with medications instead of asking why it is there. By digging deeper, we find that pain is frequently connected to structural misalignments, chronic inflammation, dehydration, and faulty lifestyle choices.
Pain and Structural Misalignments
The body was designed for balance. When the spine or joints shift out of alignment, it creates abnormal stress on muscles, ligaments, and nerves. A vertebra just a few millimeters out of place can irritate nerves, tighten muscles, and trigger pain signals that may radiate into the arms, legs, or head. Left uncorrected, this stress contributes to chronic pain syndromes, reduced mobility, and even secondary conditions such as digestive or circulatory issues. Chiropractic care directly addresses these misalignments, restoring balance to the nervous system and reducing the pain at its source.
Chronic Inflammation and Lifestyle Stress
Pain is also amplified by inflammation. When tissues are chronically inflamed—often due to poor diet, stress, lack of exercise, or exposure to toxins—the pain threshold lowers, and minor issues become major ones. Processed foods high in sugar and refined oils worsen inflammation, while anti-inflammatory nutrients (like omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, and leafy greens) can dramatically calm it down.
The Role of Hydration
Even dehydration can increase pain sensitivity. Joints and discs require water for lubrication and shock absorption. A dehydrated body stiffens, nerves fire more easily, and pain signals amplify. Simply restoring adequate water intake can reduce joint pain, headaches, and muscle cramping.
Natural Approaches to Pain Relief
The Dangers of Pain Pills
Suppressing pain with medication may seem convenient, but it carries steep costs. According to the CDC, over 100,000 people in the U.S. die each year from drug overdoses, with opioids being the leading cause. Even “milder” over-the-counter painkillers are risky:
Instead of resolving the underlying causes, painkillers create a dangerous cycle of suppression, toxicity, and in too many cases—addiction or death.
Conclusion
Pain is not the enemy. It is the body’s cry for help. Masking it with pills may bring temporary relief, but at the cost of long-term health. The wiser approach is to listen—correct the misalignments, reduce inflammation, hydrate, and nourish the body properly. Chiropractic care, nutritional therapy, and lifestyle changes address the root causes and allow the body to heal itself naturally.
What ADHD is (in plain English)
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition—think “brain wiring + chemistry differences”—that affects executive functions (attention, working memory, impulse control). Genetics play a big role, and core circuits are fronto-striatal networks that rely on dopamine and norepinephrine. That’s why stimulant medicines help many people—but they’re not the only tools. Common co-travelers include sleep problems, anxiety, low mood, and learning differences; treating these often improves attention indirectly.
How natural approaches fit
Natural care won’t “cure” ADHD, but it can reduce the load on attention systems, improve sleep/mood, and boost day-to-day function. The best results come from stacking several small wins.
1) Chiropractic & musculoskeletal care (what it can—and can’t—do)
2) Nutrition that moves the needle
3) Behavior & lifestyle foundations
Food additives & elimination trials (clear, practical guidance)
What the research suggests
Common dyes: Red 40 (Allura Red), Yellow 5 (Tartrazine), Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow); also E102, E104, E110, E122, E124, E129; and sodium benzoate (preservative).
How to run a safe, useful trial (3–4 weeks)
What doesn’t show consistent benefit: artificial sweeteners, MSG, nitrites/nitrates; ultra-restrictive “one-size-fits-all” diets.
Environmental factors, allergies, and sensitivities
Some children’s attention and behavior worsen with irritant load—think multiple small stressors that add up.
Amino acids that may help (use wisely; ask your clinician)
Adjuncts, not substitutes. Extra caution for children, pregnancy, or if you take SSRIs/SNRIs, MAOIs, stimulants, thyroid meds.
Calm focus / anxiety
Sleep
Low mood / motivation
Rule of thumb: change one thing at a time, keep a 2–3-week symptom log (focus, mood, sleep, side-effects), and stop what doesn’t help.
A simple 4-week natural stack (adjust for age)
Daily
Weekly
When to seek medical input now (not later)
Bottom line
ADHD lives at the intersection of brain chemistry, behavior skills, sleep, environment, and (for some) sensitivities. Natural care works best as a stack: clean fuel, movement, sleep hygiene, skills/routines, targeted supplements, addressing environmental/allergy triggers, and—when it helps—chiropractic to reduce pain/tension that sabotages concentration. Build the stack patiently, measure what matters, and partner with your clinician so the plan stays safe, individualized, and effective.
Courtesy of:
John H. Keefe III, D.C.
(918) 663-1111
WHAT COULD GO WRONG DEPARTMENT: LAB-GROWN MILK IS BEING FAST-TRACKED INTO MASS PRODUCTION Lab-grown "UnReal Milk" is being developed by Brown Foods using mammalian cells in bioreactors. It’s marketed as environmentally friendly despite lacking comprehensive safety testing. Other companies like Perfect Day are creating synthetic dairy alternatives that also lack long-term safety data while making questionable environmental claims. Raw milk from grass fed cows contains essential nutrients like C15:0 fat that support mitochondrial health, diabetes prevention, and weight management not found in synthetic alternatives. The push for lab-made food isn't about providing options but replacing traditional food sources, thus removing consumer control over what they consume. Take control of your health by buying from local farms, avoiding lab-grown foods, understanding ingredients, supporting real food with purchasing power, and advocating for food freedom policies. Investigate Midwest, March 24, 2025--Markets Insider, February 25, 2025--Perfect Day Foods, Fermentation Tanks--CE Delft, November 2021
WELLNESS: UNLEASH THE DETOXIFYING POWER OF SWEATING TO ELIMINATE HEAVY METALS Regular intense exercise significantly boosts your body's ability to eliminate toxic heavy metals like lead and cadmium through sweat. Exercise-induced sweating is significantly more effective at removing heavy metals like lead, nickel, copper, and arsenic from the body compared to passive sweating in a sauna, according to recent research. Combining intense exercise with heat exposure substantially increases the body's ability to excrete toxic metals through both sweat and urine, particularly after nine repeated sessions. Heavy metal toxicity can occur through everyday exposure to industrial pollutants, contaminated food and water, and air pollution, and can contribute to kidney disease, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular problems. Limit high-intensity training to 75 minutes per week for optimal detoxification benefits without risking overexertion or diminishing health returns. Sauna sessions should be limited to 20 to 30 minutes to prevent overheating and dehydration while still supporting your body's natural detoxification processes through sweating. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Apr 4;19(7):4323--J Therm Biol. 2020 Apr;89:102545--Journal of Applied Mathematics and Physics 2016 Feb;4(2)
CHIROPRACTIC: CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT can support immune system performance by treating nervous system dysfunction, lowering tension, and enhancing blood movement and lymphatic drainage1. Research shows that particular diseases like allergies, asthma, and autoimmune disorders may benefit from chiropractic treatment1. Chiropractors help their patient's immune systems stay strong because a chiropractic adjustment will indirectly boost their immune function2. Several studies of the human body have found a link between your nerves, endocrine, and immune system. Falls Church – September 11, 2023 – A groundbreaking study recentlypublished in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine by several members of the International Chiropractors Association (ICA) sheds light on the interplay between chiropractic care and the immune system. The study, “Observation of Changes in Secretory Immunoglobulin A (SIgA) after Cervical Adjusting,” investigates the effects of cervical adjusting techniques on the levels of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in the body. Conducted by a team of experts led by Philip R. Schalow, DC, DCCJP, this research delves into previously uncharted territory, exploring how chiropractic care influences the immune response through SIgA variations. Chiropractic works: Sarah, a 32-year-old teacher, had been living with chronic migraines for over a decade. The pain stole moments from her life—birthday parties, family dinners, even quiet evenings at home. After countless visits to doctors, scans, and prescriptions that only dulled the pain temporarily, she began to lose hope. One day, a colleague suggested she try chiropractic care. Skeptical but desperate, Sarah booked an appointment. The chiropractor listened closely, examined her spine, and gently adjusted a misaligned vertebra in her neck. The change wasn't dramatic at first—just a strange sense of lightness. But for the first time in years, she went a full week without a migraine. Encouraged, Sarah continued treatment. A month later, the migraines had nearly vanished. But more than that, she rediscovered her energy, her focus, and her joy. It wasn't just about her neck. It was about her life—and how one simple adjustment helped her reclaim it.
FUNNY BONE: “Sometimes you might feel like no one’s there for you, but you know who’s always there for you? Laundry. Laundry will always be there for you.”@@ “I don’t care how old I am I’m going on the bouncy castle”@@ “I may look like I’m doing nothing… But in my head I’m quite busy.”@@. “I don’t mean to interrupt people I just randomly remember things & get excited”@@ “Some days, the best thing about the job is that the chair spins.”— Unknown @@“No man goes before his time – unless the boss leaves early.”— Groucho Max@@“Don’t worry, better days are coming. They are called Friday, Saturday and Sunday.” – Unknown
Mood disorders such as anxiety and depression have become some of the most common health challenges in modern society. While mainstream medicine often turns quickly to pharmaceutical intervention, the reality is that anxiety and depression are multifactorial. They involve not only brain chemistry but also nervous system function, nutrition, gut health, stress load, and lifestyle. A natural healthcare approach looks at the whole person—mind and body—to restore balance and resilience.
Depression and anxiety are strongly linked to imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and norepinephrine. These brain chemicals regulate mood, motivation, sleep, and emotional resilience. A deficit in serotonin can lead to low mood and sleep problems; low dopamine may result in lack of drive and pleasure; imbalances in GABA and norepinephrine often manifest as excessive worry, tension, and agitation.
Research increasingly shows that mood disorders are often “inflammatory brain disorders.” Elevated inflammatory markers such as cytokines and CRP are common in patients with depression. Chronic inflammation disrupts neurotransmitter signaling and impairs neuroplasticity, making it harder for the brain to adapt and recover from stress.
Fluctuating blood sugar and imbalances in stress hormones such as cortisol also play major roles. Low blood sugar episodes can trigger irritability, panic, and fatigue, while chronic stress overstimulates the adrenal glands, leading to exhaustion, anxiety, and eventually burnout.
One often-overlooked factor in mood disorders is the health of the nervous system. The brain communicates with the body through the spinal cord, and spinal misalignments (subluxations) can interfere with this communication. Research has shown that chiropractic adjustments can improve autonomic nervous system balance—reducing overactive “fight or flight” responses and enhancing the calming “rest and repair” parasympathetic system.
Patients receiving chiropractic care frequently report improvements in sleep quality, reduced anxiety, and improved overall mood. By restoring proper nervous system function, adjustments help remove a significant layer of stress from both brain and body.
A diet high in processed carbohydrates and sugars can wreak havoc on mood stability. Stabilizing blood sugar with balanced meals—containing protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates—helps prevent the emotional rollercoaster that often comes with poor dietary habits.
Nutrients are the raw materials for brain chemistry. Amino acids such as tryptophan and tyrosine are precursors to serotonin and dopamine, while vitamins B6, B12, and folate are essential cofactors in neurotransmitter synthesis. Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil and flaxseed) are critical for healthy brain cell membranes and mood stability. Magnesium and zinc also play important roles in calming the nervous system.
Since much of the body’s serotonin is produced in the gut, digestive health is inseparable from mood health. Probiotics, fiber-rich foods, and the elimination of irritants such as excess gluten or dairy can help normalize gut flora, which in turn supports emotional balance.
At Keefe Clinic, we recognize that mood disorders rarely stem from a single cause. They are the product of chemical, structural, and lifestyle imbalances. By combining chiropractic adjustments with targeted nutritional support, dietary strategies, and natural therapies, many patients experience not only relief from anxiety and depression but also an improved sense of overall well-being and vitality.
If you or a loved one is struggling with mood issues, know that help exists beyond medication. A natural, holistic plan can restore balance, resilience, and peace of mind.
For more information or to schedule an evaluation, contact Keefe Clinic at 918-663-1111
Courtesy of:
John H. Keefe III, D.C.
(918) 663-1111
IN THE NEWS REPORT DETAILS CAUSAL LINK BETWEEN ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AND CANCER Alcohol consumption is linked to at least seven types of cancer, including breast, liver and colorectal cancers, with even small amounts increasing risk. Acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism, directly damages DNA and promotes tumor development, making alcohol a significant carcinogen. Reducing or quitting alcohol leads to measurable decreases in cancer risk, with oral and esophageal cancers showing a 50% or greater reduction after 20 years of abstinence. Public awareness of alcohol’s role in cancer is alarmingly low, with fewer than half of Americans recognizing it as a risk factor for colorectal cancer, particularly in high-risk populations. Adopting healthier habits, such as eliminating alcohol, significantly reduces cancer risk and improves overall health. The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory, Alcohol and Cancer Risk 2025--The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center (OSUCCC) Survey February 26, 2024--New England Journal of Medicine 2023;389:2486-2494
CHIROPRACTIC: HEADACHES AND NECK problems The neck (cervical spine) is made up of 7 small vertebrae including the Atlas (top vertebrae in the neck) that is a bony ring that receives the spinal cord as it leaves the brain. In modern society, there are stresses on the neck that can lead to serious problems. Car accidents, sports activities, looking down at your phone for hours at a time, and sleeping without proper support for your neck, are not just, "pains in the neck" but this can cause stress on important nerves. In the upper neck, you have nerves that innervate sections of the brain as well as your eyes and sinuses, in your mid neck you have nerves that regulate and control your throat the muscles that allow you to turn and bend your neck, and in the lower neck are the nerves that regulate the thyroid and allow for movement in your shoulders, elbows wrist and hands. Your mid-neck also supplies an important nerve that facilitates breathing (regulates diaphragm movements). Misalignments in the neck are responsible for a majority of headaches. With common injuries to the neck, even something like sleeping on your stomach chronically can lead to the loss of the normal curve in the neck that contributes to degenerated joint disease over time. Regular and specific chiropractic correction to the neck is the most effective treatment for most neck problems. Problems from neck alignment can lead to problems of Pituitary hormones, Brain function, Facial bones, Ear (inner and middle), Mental health (nervousness and depression), and Balance. Regular chiropractic care can make a difference.
WELLNESS: THYROID PROBLEMS AND NATURAL HEALTHCARE APPROACHES Natural healthcare focuses on treating the root cause of disease and restoring balance in the body: Herbal remedies such as ashwagandha (adaptogen), bladderwrack (iodine source), and lemon balm (modulates thyroid activity) may support thyroid function. Mind-body practices including Stretching, meditation, and acupuncture help reduce stress and promote hormonal balance. Detoxification protocols can aid liver function, which is essential for thyroid hormone conversion. Nutritional Therapy for Thyroid Support Diet and supplementation are foundational in managing thyroid disorders: Hypothyroidism: Emphasize selenium (e.g., Brazil nuts), zinc, iodine (in moderation), vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Hyperthyroidism: Focus on anti-inflammatory foods, avoid excess iodine, and consider supplements like L-carnitine and bugleweed. Gluten sensitivity and leaky gut are often linked with autoimmune thyroid disease; a gluten-free, whole foods diet may be beneficial.
FUNNY BONES : “I was a little excited but mostly blorft. 'Blorft' is an adjective I just made up that means 'Completely overwhelmed but proceeding as if everything is fine and reacting to the stress with the torpor of a possum.' I have been blorft every day for the past seven years.” ― Tina Fey@@ “There cannot be a stressful crisis next week. My schedule is already full.” — Henry Kissinger@@ My New Year’s resolution is to stop procrastinating. But I’ll wait until tomorrow to start. @@ "I promise not to make any bad jokes for the rest of the year." — A dad on New Year's Eve.@@7-year-old: I'm done with homework. Me: you did it? 7-year-old: that's not what I said. .@@ If a parsley farmer gets sued, can they garnish his wages? FUNNY QUOTES ON INSURANCE CLAIMS"I was unable to stop in time and my car crashed into the other vehicle. The driver and passengers then left immediately for a vacation with injuries."@@"The pedestrian ran for the pavement, but I got him."@@ "I saw her look at me twice. She appeared to be making slow progress when we met on impact."
August 4, 2025 — A groundbreaking study out of UW Medicine has revealed that the hormone leptin may hold the key to controlling blood sugar levels in Type 1 diabetes — without the need for insulin. While leptin is most often recognized as a hormone that regulates appetite and metabolism, new findings suggest it may also protect against diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) — a life-threatening condition associated with high blood sugar and ketone buildup.
Researchers tested leptin in mice and rats that had little or no insulin due to Type 1 diabetes. Surprisingly, after receiving leptin:
The researchers propose that when leptin levels are too low — as often occurs in uncontrolled diabetes — the brain interprets the signal as starvation, causing the liver to produce more glucose and ketones. Leptin therapy appears to quiet that starvation response, restoring metabolic balance.
This study may redefine how we understand the brain’s role in regulating blood sugar — and open the door to non-insulin-based treatments for Type 1 diabetes.
While insulin remains the cornerstone of Type 1 diabetes treatment, this new research suggests that supporting healthy leptin function could:
Human trials are expected in the near future, but you don’t have to wait to support your leptin levels naturally.
If you want to improve leptin function and its signaling to the brain, here are natural strategies you can begin today:
Poor sleep is one of the fastest ways to disrupt leptin signaling. Just one night of sleep deprivation can lower leptin and raise hunger hormones like ghrelin.
Tip: Aim for 7–9 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night. Chiropractic adjustments can improve nervous system balance, which helps support restful sleep.
High intake of fructose and sugar (especially from soft drinks or processed foods) can cause leptin resistance, meaning your body produces leptin, but your brain ignores it — much like insulin resistance.
Tip: Stick to whole fruits instead of fruit juice or high-fructose corn syrup. Keep added sugars to a minimum.
Protein boosts satiety and helps regulate both insulin and leptin levels. In fact, studies show high-protein meals help reduce cravings and improve hormone balance.
Good sources: Eggs, turkey, grass-fed beef, beans, Greek yogurt, and clean protein powders.
Frequent overeating — even of good foods — can blunt leptin’s signals over time. Controlled, balanced meals allow the brain and body to stay in sync.
Tip: Eat until 80% full, and try intermittent fasting under supervision if weight or insulin levels are an issue.
Both aerobic exercise and resistance training have been shown to increase leptin sensitivity, especially when paired with proper sleep and nutrition.
Even walking 30 minutes per day can help restore hormonal balance.
Chronic inflammation can impair leptin signaling. Supporting your immune system naturally can make leptin more effective.
Anti-inflammatory aids: Omega-3s, turmeric (curcumin), ginger, magnesium, and chiropractic care (which reduces nervous system stress and supports whole-body healing).
Because leptin signals are interpreted by the hypothalamus in the brain, a balanced nervous system is essential for proper communication between the brain and body.
Chiropractic adjustments can help regulate hypothalamic function, improve vagal tone, and support hormonal communication.
While direct research is limited, many holistic practitioners use herbal and energetic supports to help regulate appetite, metabolism, and the hypothalamic-pituitary axis:
Note: Always test or consult before adding supplements to your routine.
Leptin is emerging as more than just a hunger hormone. It may be a master regulator of metabolic balance, especially in conditions like Type 1 diabetes where insulin is deficient. While we wait for human trials on leptin therapy, there are many natural ways to support leptin function and improve health from the ground up.
At Keefe Clinic, we evaluate leptin and related hormones using both lab and energetic methods. If you're struggling with blood sugar, weight loss resistance, or metabolic imbalance, we can help guide you with chiropractic care, nutritional therapy, Vega testing, and lifestyle recommendations.
To schedule an appointment, call us at 918-663-1111.
Fax: 918-663-2129
Email: docjohn@keefeclinic.com
Courtesy of:
John H. Keefe III, D.C.
(918) 663-1111
IN THE NEWS: HOW CIGARETTE SMOKE WEAKENS LUNG IMMUNITY AND FUELS CHRONIC INFLAMMATION Cigarette smoke contains over 20,000 harmful chemicals that weaken immune cells and promote chronic inflammation. Long-term exposure to smoking impairs the function of T cells, macrophages and other immune cells, leaving your body vulnerable to infections and cancer. Smoking triggers oxidative stress and DNA damage, disrupting your immune system and increasing the risk of diseases like lung cancer. Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke are important steps to restoring immune health and preventing further damage. Nutrient-rich foods, regular movement and sunlight exposure support immune recovery and reduce inflammation. Journal of Experimental Medicine January 17, 2025, 222 (2): e20240896--Environmental Pollution December 15, 2023, Volume 339, 122730--International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health May 21, 2018, 21;15(5):1033--
CHIROPRACTIC: THE ADJUSTMENT THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING Maya had spent years living with chronic back pain. Once a passionate dancer, she'd given up her dream after injury and frustration dimmed her light. Doctors offered medications, rest, and even surgery—but nothing restored her spark. One rainy morning, a friend urged her to visit a chiropractor. Skeptical but desperate, Maya agreed. Her friend recommended their chiropractor who welcomed her with a warm smile and an open mind. After a thorough evaluation, he explained how subtle misalignments in her spine were disrupting not only her movement—but her entire sense of well-being. The first adjustment was gentle, almost imperceptible. But Maya stood up and felt… lighter. Not just in her body, but in her spirit. With every visit, her pain eased, her posture straightened, and her confidence returned. Six months later, Maya stepped back onto the stage, twirling in perfect rhythm—not just with the music, but with herself. It wasn’t just an adjustment. It was a realignment with her purpose.
CARING; YOUR HEALTH JOURNEY DOESN’T HAVE TO BE WALKED ALONE—and neither does theirs. 💫If chiropractic care has helped you move better, feel stronger, and live brighter, why not share that gift? Encourage your family and friends to take that first step toward healing. Sometimes, one adjustment can change everything. 💆♂️💥A healthier spine can lead to a healthier life—for you and the ones you love. 🧠💪
Refer someone today, and let’s help more people live life aligned! 🌿✨
WELLNESS: VITAMIN K1 VS. K2 — UNDERSTANDING THEIR DISTINCT ROLES IN YOUR HEALTH Vitamin K1, found mainly in green leafy vegetables, is essential for blood clotting, while vitamin K2, produced by gut bacteria and present in fermented foods and animal products, significantly impacts bone and heart health. Vitamin K2 is more effective than K1 in enhancing bone density and preventing arterial calcification, making it important for cardiovascular and skeletal health. Conventional vitamin K tests, such as measuring prothrombin time — or how quickly your blood clots — mainly measure vitamin K1, overlooking K2’s important functions. The bioavailability and absorption rates of vitamin K2 are higher than those of K1, allowing it to be more effective in tissues outside of your liver. Vitamin K2, particularly in the MK-7 form, has a longer half-life, enabling sustained support for bone and cardiovascular health. Br J Nutr. 2013 Oct;110(8):1357-68--Int J Mol Sci. 2019 Feb 19;20(4):896--Foods. 2021 Dec 17;10(12):3136--Current Issues in Molecular Biology July 4, 2024, 46(7), 7001-7031 MOVEMENT IS LIFE—and your bones are the foundation that carry you through it. Every step, stretch, and stride strengthens not just your muscles, but the very structure that supports you. Keep moving, and you’re not just staying active—you’re building resilience from the inside out.Strong bones. Confident movement. A life in motion. Let’s keep your foundation solid and your spirit unstoppable.
FUNNY BONE: FUNNY QUOTES ON INSURANCE CLAIMS "I was sure the old fellow would never make it to the other side of the road when I struck him."@@"The pedestrian had no idea which way to run as I ran over him."@@ "I saw a slow moving, sad faced old gentleman as he bounced off the roof of my car."@@ "The indirect cause of the accident was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth."@@ "The telephone pole was approaching. I was attempting to swerve out of the way when I struck the front end."@@ "The gentleman behind me struck me on the backside. He then went to rest in a bush with just his rear end showing. "
Health is not a random occurrence—it is the natural and normal state of the human body. When the body is nourished properly, kept in alignment, detoxified, well-rested, and supported mentally and spiritually, it functions optimally. Disease and dysfunction arise when these natural processes are disrupted—not because the body is drug-deficient.
Unfortunately, much of today’s healthcare system is built on managing symptoms rather than restoring function. This reactive, pharmaceutical-first model often overlooks the root causes of disease and ignores the body's own healing potential.
🔍 The Root Causes of Disease Are Largely Preventable
Most chronic illnesses in the United States are caused by a combination of modifiable lifestyle factors:
💊 The Pharmaceutical Illusion
Despite these known causes, we are told that symptom suppression through pharmaceuticals is the solution to disease. But this is not a neutral or harmless approach.
🌱 Natural Healthcare Restores Function, Not Just Comfort
In contrast, natural healthcare focuses on restoring optimal function, allowing the body to heal itself.
Natural Approach————————————Mechanism
Chiropractic——————————————-Corrects spinal misalignments to restore nerve flow⁶⁻⁷
Nutritional therapy———————————Provides raw materials for healing and detoxification
Exercise and movement—————————Improves circulation, oxygenation, and resilience³
Stress management———————————Reduces cortisol and supports immune response⁴
Positive mindset/spiritual support————-Shown to enhance outcomes and immune function¹¹
In this model, symptoms improve because the body is actually healing—not just because the signals have been chemically silenced.
🛑 Medicine Has a Role—But It’s Overused
Let’s be clear: modern medicine can save lives. In emergencies, trauma, or infections, drugs and surgery are powerful and often necessary. But the problem arises when this model is applied indiscriminately to non-life-threatening, chronic conditions.
More than 75% of U.S. healthcare costs go toward treating preventable chronic diseases.¹² That tells us our system is treating dysfunction—not creating health.
✅ Conclusion: Healing is Built Into the Body
The body was designed to heal. When we remove interference, provide the right nutrients, support the nervous system, and reduce physical and emotional stress, the body has an astounding ability to repair itself.
Natural healthcare supports that process. Pharmaceuticals suppress it.
For most non-emergency conditions, the safer, smarter, and more sustainable first choice should be natural healthcare. Not because we reject medicine—but because we respect the body's built-in design to heal itself.
📚 References
In chiropractic philosophy, the human body is viewed as a self-regulating, self-healing organism, governed by an intrinsic wisdom known as innate intelligence. This innate intelligence uses the nervous system as its primary communication network, coordinating every cell, tissue, and organ in the body.
When the nervous system functions without interference, the body can adapt, repair, and thrive. But when nerve communication is disrupted—often due to spinal misalignments or subluxations—health deteriorates. Chiropractic care aims to remove these interferences, restoring the body's innate capacity to heal itself.
What Is Innate Intelligence?
Coined by chiropractic founder D.D. Palmer, innate intelligence is defined as:
“The inherent wisdom of the body that governs the function of every living cell through the nervous system.”
While not a term used in conventional science, innate intelligence aligns with the concept of homeostasis—the body’s built-in capacity to regulate internal balance and healing without conscious effort.
Examples of innate processes:
The Nervous System: The Body's Communication Superhighway
1. Central Nervous System (CNS)
2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
“Every function of the human body is under the control of the nervous system.”
— Gray's Anatomy, 29th Edition
In chiropractic terms, this system is the conduit for innate intelligence—the way the body’s wisdom communicates and carries out instructions to maintain health.
🩻 What Are Subluxations?
A subluxation, in chiropractic terminology, is a misalignment or restriction in the spine that interferes with nerve function. Though not always detectable on standard medical imaging, subluxations may:
“When vertebrae become misaligned, nerve impulses may be altered, affecting the tissues supplied by those nerves.”
— Gatterman, M.I., Foundations of Chiropractic: Subluxation
Scientific Support for the Nervous System’s Role in Health
• Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Regulation
The ANS controls functions like digestion, heart rate, immune response, and stress adaptation.
Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to:
Study: Chiropractic spinal adjustments were associated with improved HRV and autonomic balance.
(Luchetti et al., Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, 2020)
• Neuroimmune Interaction
The nervous system regulates immune function through neurotransmitters and neuropeptides.
“Neuroendocrine pathways and autonomic innervation play an essential role in immune modulation.”
— Science Immunology, 2020
Chiropractic research also supports this:
“Spinal adjustments can enhance immune-related biomarkers, such as IgA and leukocyte counts.”
(Coulter et al., Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2008)
Real-World Applications: How Chiropractic Helps the Nervous System
Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to:
Example: A 2016 study found cervical adjustments led to changes in brain activity, including the prefrontal cortex, suggesting chiropractic care may influence executive function, stress regulation, and movement planning.
(Haavik et al., Journal of Neural Plasticity)
Chiropractic and the Brain-Body Connection
Modern neuroscience confirms what chiropractors have long taught: the spine is not just a stack of bones—it is a dynamic, sensory-rich structure that influences brain function.
The spine provides:
A disrupted spine means a distorted brain-body conversation—exactly what innate intelligence seeks to correct through chiropractic adjustment.
Conclusion: The Nervous System and Health Are Inseparable
Chiropractic care centers on the truth that a properly functioning nervous system is the foundation of health. When the nervous system is clear of interference, the body can express its innate intelligence—promoting healing, adaptation, and vitality.
Regular chiropractic adjustments aren’t just for pain relief—they’re for nervous system optimization, allowing your body to function the way it was designed.
“The preservation of health is easier than the cure of disease.”
— B.J. Palmer
References
Courtesy of: John H. Keefe III, D.C. (918) 663-1111
IN THE NEWS: SLIM DOWN WITHOUT EXERCISE? THE NEAT EFFECT EXPLAINED Fidgeting and everyday movements contribute to non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), which is the energy your body uses for activities other than formal exercise, sleeping and eating; it helps maintain a healthy weight. These small movements aren't just nervous habits but your body's natural response to being sedentary for too long. Fidgeting improves focus and cognitive performance, making it especially beneficial for people with ADHD or attention challenges. Research shows fidgeting while sitting burns up to 30% more calories than staying completely still, contributing to better metabolic health. Simple workplace adjustments like standing desks, walking during calls or using fidget toys significantly increase your daily NEAT. NPR February 2, 2025--Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jan 26;19(3):1357--Front Psychiatry. 2024 Jul 1:15:1394096--The Art of Manliness January 27, 2025--BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med. 2016 Sep 1;2(1):e000152
CARING: HELP OTHERS EXPERIENCE THE BENEFITS! Have you noticed the positive effects of chiropractic care on your life? Share the gift of health by referring friends and family to our clinic! When you refer a new patient, you’ll receive a special thank-you gift as part of our referral program. Your referrals help us grow and, more importantly, help your loved ones take a step toward better health. Let’s build a healthier community together! Stay healthy and aligned!
CHIROPRACTIC: THE POWER OF CHIROPRACTIC CARE Chiropractic care isn’t just about alleviating back pain—it’s a holistic approach to maintaining your body's optimal function. Regular adjustments help improve posture, reduce stress, and boost your immune system. By keeping your spine aligned, you enhance your nervous system’s ability to communicate effectively with the rest of your body, leading to improved overall health. Four Health Topics to Keep You Thriving 1. Posture and Spinal Health With the increasing use of screens, poor posture has become a major health concern. Slouching puts excessive strain on your spine and can lead to long-term discomfort. Regular chiropractic adjustments, combined with posture exercises, can help you maintain proper spinal alignment and avoid chronic pain. 2. The Link Between Chiropractic and Better Sleep Do you struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep? Misalignments in the spine can interfere with your nervous system and disrupt sleep patterns. Chiropractic care promotes relaxation, reduces tension, and helps restore balance in the body—leading to more restful nights and energized mornings. 3. Stress Reduction Through Chiropractic Adjustments Physical stress from daily activities, emotional stress, and environmental factors all take a toll on your body. Chiropractic adjustments help to relieve muscle tension, improve blood circulation, and enhance relaxation, reducing the negative effects of stress and improving overall well-being. 4. Boosting Your Immune System Naturally Your nervous system and immune system are closely connected. When your spine is misaligned, it can compromise your body’s ability to fight off illness. Regular chiropractic care helps keep your immune system functioning at its best, allowing you to stay healthy year-round.
WELLNESS: EATING GOOD FATS, such as those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and oily fish, offers numerous health benefits that can enhance overall well-being. These healthy fats are essential for brain function, as they support cognitive health and improve mood. They also play a crucial role in heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering bad cholesterol levels, therefore decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, good fats aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and can help regulate appetite, promoting a sense of satiety that can contribute to maintaining a healthy weight. Incorporating good fats into a balanced diet can lead to improved energy levels and sustained health benefits.
FUNNY BONE: Maybe if we tell people the brain is an app, they will start using it.- Anonymous@@ On my way to work this morning, I yelled COW! At a woman riding a bicycle. She made an ugly gesture and told me to get lost .... Then plowed into a cow.@@ What is the most popular day of the week to start a diet? Tomorrow @@ My boss asked me why I only get sick on workdays. I said, "It’s my weekend immune system". @@ What continues to work even after it is fired? A neuron@@FUNNY QUOTES ON INSURANCE CLAIMS: "An invisible car came out of nowhere, struck my car and vanished." @@ "I thought my window was down, but I found it was up when I put my head through it
In the United States, the debate over how to achieve and maintain health is far more than academic—it’s structural, political, and deeply personal. On one side stands orthodox medicine: well-funded, government-backed, and culturally dominant. On the other side is natural healthcare: decentralized, grassroots, and often sidelined—despite its track record in preventing and reversing chronic disease.
This is not a balanced debate. It’s an unfair fight, and one that directly affects the health of every American.
America spends more than $4 trillion per year on healthcare, yet ranks among the lowest in overall outcomes among developed nations. Why?
Much of that spending fuels a system dominated by pharmaceuticals, high-tech diagnostics, and invasive procedures—all championed by orthodox medicine and backed by enormous financial and institutional power. Federal agencies like the FDA, CDC, NIH, and CMS routinely prioritize drug and surgical solutions, often to the exclusion of natural or lifestyle-based approaches.
Natural healthcare—focusing on nutrition, detoxification, chiropractic care, and other holistic modalities—has been marginalized through regulation, media bias, and insurance exclusion, even though it aligns more closely with the root causes of chronic disease.
Orthodox medicine shines in crisis care. Emergency surgeries, trauma response, infection control—these are legitimate triumphs of modern medicine.
But for chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, digestive issues, and fatigue, the system often fails. Patients are handed pills that manage symptoms, not root causes. And the risks are severe:
✅ According to Congressional testimony (U.S. House, 2013), over 2,000 Americans die each week from adverse reactions to pharmaceutical drugs and complications from medical procedures.
✅ The Institute for Safe Medication Practices ranks medication-related deaths among the top five leading causes of death in the U.S.
✅ The World Health Organization’s 2019 report calls for broader integration of traditional and complementary medicine to improve outcomes and lower costs globally.
Natural healthcare offers a different path—one rooted in supporting the body’s ability to heal through foundational principles. These include:
As Dr. Mark Hyman puts it:
“We are not treating diseases; we are treating the underlying causes of dysfunction.”
Natural health interventions have not only shown efficacy in reducing the burden of disease—they often reverse it when conventional medicine declares it incurable.
We are at a crossroads. Americans are sicker, more medicated, and more confused than ever. Chronic illness is rising. Costs are skyrocketing. Trust in the system is declining.
And yet, natural healthcare—time-tested, scientifically supported, and grounded in human physiology—remains underutilized and, at times, actively suppressed.
What Americans need is not a choice between pills or herbs. They need a coherent model that:
This fight isn't about ideology—it's about outcomes. It's time we stop treating symptoms and start restoring health. That means integrating the wisdom of natural healthcare with the strengths of modern emergency medicine.
Until we remove the systemic bias that prioritizes patents over patients, and until we elevate natural principles to their rightful place in public health policy, America’s chronic disease epidemic will continue.
Courtesy of:
John H. Keefe III, D.C.
(918) 663-1111
IN THE NEWS: BUTYRATE — THE GUT-BRAIN AXIS CONNECTOR THAT INFLUENCES MOOD AND COGNITION Butyrate, produced by gut bacteria when they ferment dietary fiber, acts as a signaling molecule in the gut-brain axis, influencing stress, pain tolerance, immunity, and brain health. Found in foods such as butter, cheese, whole grains, legumes, and fruits. Through multiple mechanisms, including specific enzyme inhibition and NF-κB pathway regulation, butyrate reduces neuroinflammation and protects against neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Butyrate influences key neurotransmitters including GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, while also increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports neuronal growth and cognitive function. The vagus nerve serves as a communication highway between the gut and the brain, transmitting signals about butyrate levels that affect mood regulation, stress response, and immune function. Optimizing gut health through dietary fiber and homemade fermented foods helps promote butyrate production and maintain a healthy gut-brain connection. Energy source: Butyrate is the primary energy source for colon cells, providing them with ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Gut health: Butyrate helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. Immune function: Butyrate modulates immune responses in the gut, reducing inflammation and protecting against intestinal diseases. Metabolic health: Butyrate has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce body fat, and regulate blood sugar levels. Nutrients. 2023 Oct 31;15(21):4631, Abstract--Cleveland Clinic, September 20, 2023, The Gut-Brain Connection-- Neuroscience Letters, Volume 625, June 20, 2016, Pages 56-63
WELLNESS: HOW DOES HOT LEMON WATER BENEFIT YOUR HEALTH? Lemons are packed with nutrients like vitamin C, minerals and flavonoids that support immune function, digestion and provide powerful antioxidant benefits for overall health. Hot lemon water improves digestion by increasing gastric acid, enhancing intestinal motility and supporting gut microbiota through its natural citrus compounds. One way drinking lemon water boosts immune health is through its vitamin C content, which enhances lymphocyte function, improves pathogen elimination and supports your body's natural defense mechanisms. Hot lemon water aids in weight loss by promoting fullness, reducing calorie intake, supporting metabolism and replacing high-calorie sugary drinks. Lemon water supports your body's natural detoxification processes by acting as a mild diuretic, providing antioxidant support and helping maintain liver and kidney function. Science Daily, August 18, 2017--Health.mil, January 10, 2022--AllRecipes, February 21, 2024--Science Direct, Lemon
CHIROPRACTIC: DID YOU KNOW? Chiropractic care is widely known for alleviating back and neck pain, but it also provides several lesser-known benefits, such as: 1. Improved Digestion Spinal misalignments, especially in the mid-back, can impact nerve signals to the digestive system. Adjustments may help relieve acid reflux, bloating, and constipation. 2. Enhanced Immune Function The nervous system and immune system are closely linked. Chiropractic care helps reduce stress on the nervous system, potentially improving immune response and overall resistance to illness. 3. Better Sleep Quality Spinal misalignments can contribute to discomfort and poor sleep. Regular chiropractic care may reduce tension, relieve pain, and promote relaxation, leading to better sleep patterns. 4. Increased Lung Function & Breathing Misalignments in the thoracic spine can impact lung function. Adjustments may help improve respiratory capacity, benefiting individuals with asthma or other breathing issues. 5. Boosted Energy & Reduced Fatigue By decreasing tension and improving circulation, chiropractic care may help reduce fatigue and increase overall energy levels. 6. Enhanced Athletic Performance Many athletes use chiropractic care to improve flexibility, reduce the risk of injuries, and optimize overall physical performance. 7. Balanced Blood Pressure Studies suggest chiropractic adjustments, particularly in the upper cervical spine, may help regulate blood pressure. 8. Hormonal Balance & Menstrual Relief Chiropractic adjustments may help regulate hormones, potentially easing PMS symptoms, irregular cycles, and menopause-related discomfort. 9. Reduced Anxiety & Stress Chiropractic care can help regulate the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the physical symptoms of stress and anxiety. 10. TMJ & Jaw Pain Relief Chiropractors can help alleviate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain by adjusting the jaw and neck to improve alignment and function.
FUNNY BONE: REAL FUNNY QUOTES FROM INSURANCE CLAIMS: "The accident happened because I had one eye on the truck in front, one eye on the pedestrian and the other on the car behind."@@ "I started to slow down but the traffic was more stationary than I thought."@@ "I pulled into a rest stop with smoke coming from under the hood. I realised the car was on fire so took my dog and smothered it with a blanket." @@ The claimant had collided with a cow. The questions and answers on the claim form were - Q: What warning was given by you? A: Horn. Q: What warning was given by the other party? A: Moo.@@ "I didn't think the speed limit applied after midnight" @@ "I knew the dog was possessive about the car but I would not have asked her to drive it if I had thought there was any risk."@@ "Windscreen broken. Cause unknown. Probably Voodoo
While it's difficult to pin down an exact number due to their overlap and integration, we can organize the key ones into major categories. Here's a breakdown:
🧬 1. Immune System
🧫 2. Inflammatory Response
🧟 3. Cellular Repair Mechanisms
🧗 4. Musculoskeletal System
💉 5. Circulatory System
🧠 6. Nervous System
🥬 7. Endocrine System
🔋 8. Detoxification and Elimination Systems
🌿 9. Regenerative Systems
⚙️ 10. Microbiome Influence
🔁 Summary:
You can think of 10+ major physiological systems and mechanisms, all layered with dozens of sub-systems and molecular pathways—working constantly to keep the body in repair mode.
Most people think of chickenpox as a one-and-done childhood illness. You get it, recover, and move on. But what many don’t realize is that the virus responsible for chickenpox, varicella-zoster, doesn’t actually leave the body. Instead, it takes up long-term residence in the nervous system, lying dormant in nerve ganglia—often for decades.
The most well-known consequence of this dormancy is shingles (herpes zoster), which can flare up years later, typically under conditions of stress or immune suppression. However, shingles isn't the only concern. New research and clinical experience suggest that a dormant varicella virus may also be linked to:
Viruses That Linger: Not Just Chickenpox Chickenpox isn’t the only virus with this behavior. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes simplex are all examples of viruses that can persist in the body, flaring up when the immune system is compromised. Together, they paint a clear picture: your immune system is constantly holding these viral "freeloaders" in check.
What Weakens Immunity and Lets These Viruses Activate?
Several modern lifestyle factors can stress and weaken the immune system:
How to Strengthen Your Body's Viral Defense System
Thankfully, there are natural and effective ways to reinforce your immune defenses and keep dormant viruses suppressed.
1. Key Nutrients & Immune Support
2. Detoxification Support
3. Exercise and Sleep
4. Chiropractic Adjustments
5. Stress Management
Conclusion A past chickenpox infection doesn’t always stay in the past. As we age or go through stressful seasons, the varicella virus can reassert itself in subtle but damaging ways. By strengthening your immune system and reducing your toxic and structural stress, you can help ensure that these viral hitchhikers remain permanently silent.
Talk to Dr. Keefe about developing a personalized plan to strengthen your defenses and support your nervous system. Prevention isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about cultivating resilience every day.
IN THE NEWS: MEMORY IS NOT CONFINED TO YOUR BRAIN New research reveals that cells, not just neurons, retain and recall information, a concept known as "cellular memory". Studies show that spaced repetition of stimuli leads to a stronger cellular response compared to single, intense stimuli, mirroring learning principles. Key molecular factors like ERK and CREB, known for their role in brain memory, are also involved in cellular memory throughout your body. Cellular memory plays a role in various health processes, including immune responses, stress reactions and even the development of diseases like cancer. Lifestyle choices such as stress management, healthy diet, exercise and sleep positively influence cellular memory and overall well-being. Nature Communications Volume 15, Article number: 9635 (2024)-Front Immunol. 2024 Apr 11;15:1365127--Elife. 2024 Jul 11:13:RP96281. doi: 10.7554/eLife.96281--ACS Biomater Sci Eng. 2024 Apr 8;10(4):2177-2187. doi: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01079. Epub 2024 Mar 11--New York University November 7, 2024
WELLNESS: HERE'S HOW IT CAN HELP IMPROVE OVERALL WELLNESS: 1. Boosts Immune System Natural remedies like herbal supplements (e.g., echinacea, elderberry) and dietary adjustments can strengthen the immune system. Practices like stretching, meditation, and stress reduction can also improve immunity by lowering cortisol levels. 2. Reduces Dependency on Synthetic Drugs Natural healthcare often prioritizes alternatives like chiropractic adjustments, herbal medicine, essential oils, or acupuncture to treat ailments, reducing reliance on medications with potential side effects. 3. Addresses Root Causes, Not Just Symptoms Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses on treating symptoms, natural healthcare emphasizes identifying and addressing the root causes of health issues (e.g., poor diet, stress, environmental factors). 4. Supports Preventive Health Natural healthcare promotes prevention through healthy habits like regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and detoxification. Supplements like probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins enhance overall health and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses. 5. Promotes Physical Activity Activities like tai chi, stretching, or outdoor walking encourage movement, improve flexibility, and reduce stress, benefiting physical and emotional health.
CHIROPRACTIC: BENEFITS OF CHIROPRACTIC CARE 1. Pain Relief-Back and Neck Pain: Chiropractic adjustments help realign the spine, reducing tension in muscles and nerves. This can relieve chronic back and neck pain without the need for medication or surgery. Headache and Migraine Relief: Misalignments in the spine can cause tension headaches or migraines. Chiropractic adjustments often alleviate these by improving spinal alignment and reducing stress on the nervous system. Joint Pain: It’s not just for the back—chiropractors also work on other areas, such as knees, shoulders, and hips, to relieve joint pain. 2. Improved Posture Modern lifestyles (like sitting at a desk all day) often lead to poor posture. Chiropractic care can correct misalignments caused by slouching or prolonged sitting, which helps improve posture and prevent future pain or discomfort. 3. Enhanced Nervous System Function The spine houses the central nervous system. By correcting misalignments (subluxations), chiropractic care can improve the communication between the brain and body, leading to better overall health and function. 4. Increased Mobility and Flexibility Adjustments can reduce stiffness and improve the range of motion in the joints. This is especially beneficial for athletes or those recovering from injuries. 5. Improved Sleep Quality Chronic pain or tension can disrupt sleep. By relieving pain and reducing stress on the body, chiropractic care can help improve the quality of sleep. 6. Boosted Immune System The nervous system controls immune function. By ensuring the spine and nervous system are in proper alignment, chiropractic care can help enhance the body’s natural ability to fight off illness. 7. Better Stress Management Misalignments in the spine can lead to physical and mental stress. Chiropractic adjustments can help relax the body, reduce muscle tension, and improve overall well-being, helping you better cope with stress. 8. Non-Invasive and Drug-Free Treatment Chiropractic care provides a natural approach to healing, avoiding the need for medication or invasive procedures. This can reduce the risk of drug dependency or surgical complications.
FUNNY BONE: My daughter went to a Mexican fast food and ordered a taco. She asked the person behind the counter for 'minimal lettuce.' He said he was sorry, but they only had iceberg lettuce.@@ He said, there was no spark between us anymore. So I tasered him!!! (I’ll ask him again when he wakes up)”@@ “I hate when a couple argues in public and I missed the beginning and don’t know whose side I’m on.”@@ I was at the airport, checking in at the gate when an airport employee asked, 'Has anyone put anything in your baggage without your knowledge?' To which I replied, 'If it was without my knowledge, how would I know?' He smiled knowingly and nodded, 'That's why we ask.'
Most people think chiropractic care is only about relieving back or neck pain—but what if your spine holds the key to improving your sleep, immunity, digestion, and stress response?
It’s not a stretch. Chiropractic adjustments work directly on your nervous system, which controls everything in your body—from heart rate to hormone balance. That means correcting spinal misalignments can have widespread, surprising benefits.
Your brain and spinal cord form your central nervous system (CNS)—the electrical and chemical command center of your
body. Your spine is the protective tunnel for that system. When vertebrae become misaligned (called subluxations), they can interfere with the signals traveling between your brain and body.
This miscommunication can lead to:
- Tense muscles that never relax
- Trouble sleeping
- Weak digestion or sluggish bowels
- Low energy and burnout
- Recurring infections due to immune dysregulation
When we correct a misalignment with a chiropractic adjustment, it’s more than just a "pop." It’s a neurological reset. Research shows that spinal adjustments can:
- Improve vagal nerve tone (linked to calm, digestion, and heart rate)
- Enhance heart rate variability, a sign of stress resilience
- Normalize cortisol (your main stress hormone)
- Support immune system communication
Think of it this way: When your nervous system can adapt better, your whole body functions better.
Patient Testimonial: Sandra W., age 56
“I came to Keefe Clinic for some annoying neck stiffness and headaches. After my first few visits, I noticed something strange—I was sleeping deeper than I had in years, and my digestion improved, too! I didn’t expect chiropractic care to help with those things, but I feel calmer, stronger, and more in sync. I’m now telling all my friends it’s more than just a back fix—it’s a reset for your whole body.”
If you’re dealing with recurring fatigue, tension, sleep issues, digestive problems, or stress overload, your nervous system might be out of sync. Chiropractic care offers a natural way to restore the communication lines between your brain and your body.
Courtesy of:
Week of: Monday Sept. 7, 2020,
John H. Keefe III, D.C.
(918) 663-1111
IN THE NEWS: What You Need to Know About Vitamin C Dosage Vitamin C boosts the immune system, lessens cognitive decline, improves cardiovascular function, reduces oxidative stress, mineralizes bones and may be toxic to cancer cells. The adult RDA for vitamin C, 90 mg a day for men and 75 mg for women, should be much higher, according to a video from James DiNicolantonio, PharmD. Studies have calculated vitamin C saturation on the basis of excretion, which caused them to incorrectly conclude that higher doses are not effective. Optimal doses of vitamin C can be as high as 1,250 mg twice daily; even 2.5 grams per day does not produce full saturation and may have benefits. Vitamin C has been shown to kill lymphoma cells and help fight prostate, pancreatic, hepatocellular, colon, mesothelioma and neuroblastoma cancers. According to The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, vitamin C enhances the immune system by stimulating leukocyte function, antimicrobicidal and natural killer cell activities and lymphocyte proliferation.High levels of vitamin C, according to the journal, also protects: "… against damage to blood vessels and very significantly reduce mortality rates in the elderly. Indeed, Fletcher et al. have measured that men (mean age 80 years) with 100 mg daily vitamin C intake presented a mortality risk nearly half that compared to peer men with a consumption of 50 mg/day. Moreover, men with low serum ascorbate concentrations may have an increased risk of mortality. A large body of evidence demonstrates that high dietary vitamin C supplementation (between 1 and 10 g/day or more …) can enhance resistance to and improve recovery from infectious, degenerative diseases, and certain types of cancer … Large doses of ascorbate have been found to reduce cardiovascular disease risk, lengthen the lifespan of patients with cancer, and … lengthen lifespan in general. Moreover, daily supplementation with 1000 mg of ascorbic acid results in a significant decrease of blood-lead levels associated with the general population."
CHIROPRACTIC: CHIROPRACTIC WORKS Charlie had arm pain for over a year and it started to interfere with his work and home life. He had been to all the medical specialists and tried all their prescriptions, but it was still bad and getting worse. He was almost ready to accept that surgery was his only remaining option, as the surgeons had said, when a co-worker suggested he visit a chiropractor. The chiropractor treated Charlie and was able to control his pain in a matter of weeks. Charlie never had the surgery and now feels much better. He can handle the flare-ups which come every four months or so with a few chiropractic visits and it's far less expensive than even one day in a hospital. Charlie is thrilled. Success? Chiropractic?@@ When I first came to Dr. Ricks, I couldn’t do anything without pain in my lower back. I was even bed ridden for about a month. I could not get up without pin or down without pain. I was miserable and I did not want to have surgery so when I saw Dr. Ricks’ ad in the Idaho Statesman, I thought it was worth a try. I made an appointment with him and agreed to a six week recovery program. It was the greatest decision I ever made! Except for when I “over do it” at age 78, I am now pain free in my lower back.
FUNNY BONES: Patient: Doctor, doctor, I think I am losing my memory! Doctor: When did that happen? Patient: When did what happen?@@ A man returned to the U.S. after a trip abroad feeling very ill. He goes to see his doctor and is immediately rushed to the hospital to undergo a barrage of extensive tests. The man wakes up after the tests in a private room at the hospital, and the phone by his bed rings. “This is your doctor. We’ve got the results back from your tests, and we’ve found you have an extremely nasty virus that is extremely contagious!” “Oh my gosh,” cries the man. He’s in a panic now. “What are you going to do, Doctor?” “Well, we’re going to put you on a diet of pizzas, pancakes, and pita bread.” “Will that cure me?” asked the man hopefully. The doctor replied, “No… but it’s the only food we can get under the door.”
Visit our web sites: keefeclinic.com & Facebook.com/keefeclinic
Week of: Monday Aug 31, 2020
Courtesy of:
John H. Keefe III, D.C.
(918) 663-1111
IN THE NEWS: THE WARNING SIGNS OF A MAGNESIUM DEFICIENCY (NaturalHealth365) As a macronutrient crucial to good health, magnesium is no slouch. This powerful mineral takes part in about 300 enzyme activities going on in your body, impacting everything from protein synthesis to blood pressure regulation. Magnesium is also vital to a number of energy-related functions, earning it the reputation as the body’s ‘energizer’. Surprising, to most people, magnesium is responsible for: Bone development--Synthesis of DNA, RNA and the antioxidant glutathione--Plus, the active transport of potassium and calcium ions across cellular membranes, which is critical to such bodily functions as muscle contraction, nerve impulse conduction, and proper heart rhythm. Signs of a magnesium deficiency include anxiety, irritability, weakness and fatigue, as well as a general feeling of energy depletion. Many health experts warn that if you experience:Ringing in the ears or hearing loss, Unexplained muscle cramps or tremors, Depression, Abnormal heart function, Or, kidney stones. magnesium levels can decrease your body’s efficiency at using stored energy and optimizing calorie burn. In addition, those with lower magnesium levels often experience a greater need for oxygen and an increased heart rate when exercising. Because of its role in maintaining bone structure, magnesium deficiency has also been linked to brittle bones and osteoporosis, while its role in glycolysis can promote further insulin resistance among those suffering from diabetes and related metabolic disorders when insufficient levels are available. And, while magnesium is widely available in leafy green vegetables, cereals and fruits, it’s estimated that between 68 and 75 percent of adults in the United States are magnesium deficient. Sources for this article include: Lifeextension.com, Oregonstate.edu, NIH.gov
WELLNESS: BREAKING THE CODE OF DISEASE Part of the challenge that any doctor has is trying to understand and to help a patient with a certain condition. In chiropractic and natural healthcare we take a totally different approach in treating our patients. Instead of using drugs that just suppress symptoms, at a cost of sometimes serious side effects, chiropractors try to focus on the underlying cause. As a patient you might think that in healthcare there is a understanding of the cause for most disease, but you would be wrong. In our society most diseases are just suppressed not corrected. In natural healthcare and chiropractic we don't use suppressive drugs so we must try to understand the root cause in order to help the patient get well. So what do we do if the cause is not generally recognized or understood? That's where we have to break the code of disease to try to get to the root cause. There are a number of diseases that's most doctors would say we don't understand the cause yet chiropractic helps on a regular basis. That's because most doctors don't work with nutritional therapy, energy medicine or chiropractic adjustments. Besides standard tools like lab work, x-ray or physical exam we utilize a biofeedback technique that we call "Vega testing". This allows us, in many cases, to unravel the underlying cause of a given condition for each patient. Do you or a family member or friend suffer from any chronic condition? Tell someone about chiropractic today. Natural healthcare is the fastest growing system in healthcare today. First of all it's safe and effective.
CHIROPRACTIC: HOW CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENTS WORK: Most of the benefits associated with chiropractic care are due to patients receiving specific chiropractic adjustments. Chiropractic adjustments work by helping to place your body in the proper position that then allows the body to heal itself. As a holistic and alternative treatment approach, chiropractic adjustments can reduce stress placed on someone’s immune system, freeing up energy to be used towards disease prevention and maintaining homeostasis. Chiropractic care aims to address the whole body, enhancing patients’ ability to think, move and perform. Chiropractors pride themselves on taking a natural, drugless approach to helping their patients reach their health goals. Essentially, the basic principle upon which the entire profession is built is that the body has the amazing, innate ability to heal itself (under the right conditions); it is the chiropractor’s job to help create an environment that facilitate this inner-healing process.---Because the nervous system controls every cell and organ in your body, chiropractors focus their attention on the health of the spine being properly aligned. If the spine shifts out of its proper place, then adjustments are used to help bring the spine back into alignment.---At the core of numerous chiropractic miracle stories is a concept known as “vertebral subluxation.” When chiropractors use this phrase, they refer to mechanical compression and irritation to spinal joints and nerves. Case in point: the very first chiropractic patient in history was named William Harvey Lillard, who experienced difficulty hearing due to compression of the nerves leading to his ears. He was treated by “the founder of chiropractic care,” David. D. Palmer, who gave Lillard spinal adjustments in order to reduce destructive nerve compressions and restore his hearing. After doing extensive research about physiology, Palmer believed that Lillard’s hearing loss was due to a misalignment that blocked the spinal nerves that controlled the inner ear (an example of vertebral subluxation). Palmer went on to successfully treat other patients and eventually trained other practitioners how to do the same. The first college of chiropractic was founded in 1897 and named after Palmer, called the Palmer Chiropractic School & Cure.
FUNNY BONE: Q: What do you call a student that got C's all the way through med school? A: Hopefully not your doctor.@@I went to the doctor and he said I had acute appendicitis, and I said compared to whom?@@Doctor: Nurse, how is that little girl doing who swallowed ten quarters last night? Nurse: No change yet.@@My 85-year-old grandfather was rushed to the hospital with a possible concussion. The doctor asked him a series of questions: “Do you know where you are?” “I’m at Rex Hospital.” “What city are you in?” “Raleigh.” “Do you know who I am?” “Dr. Hamilton.” My grandfather then turned to the nurse and said, “I hope he doesn’t ask me any more questions.” “Why?” she asked. “Because all of those answers were on his badge.” —Webb Smith
Visit our web sites: keefeclinic.com & facebook.com/keefeclinic