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Benefits of Red Light on Sleep

Dr. Beth Ringwelski DC, CCSP
January 11th, 2025

You can’t heal unless you sleep.

Our phones, laptops and other devices all emit blue and green light. These are similar to the light our body gets from the sun, therefore tricking our bodies into thinking it’s sunlight and inhibiting the production of melatonin - especially if we use our devices in the evening.

A simple “biohack” you can do is to change your phone hue red with just three taps of a button! I suggest you do this a couple hours before you plan to go to bed and then throughout the night, especially if you are one of those who tend to wake during the night and grab your phone.

1. Settings - Accessibility ->Display and Text Size ->Color Filters

2. From there, turn on “Color Filters” by tapping the switch at the top of the screen.

3. Next, select “Color Tint” as your filter.

4. Scroll down a bit to use the Intensity and Hue sliders to deepen the red effect to the fullest extent. To reach the maximum red color, both will be all the way to the right.

Another option is to invest in a Red Light bulb. These are relatively affordable and you can use then in the evening in bed while reading or, as in our case currently, during the night if you have an infant that wakes up often for feedings and diaper changes. I can personally vouch that since we started sleeping with a red light on, as our daughter is still a newborn and wakes a lot, that although I do not get much sleep, it is easier for me to sleep after being awake with her and I do feel more rested in the morning and well as not having that 1pm slump anymore like I was having with traditional nightlights.

Link for Therasage Tri-Lite Mat featured in video with discount.

Speed up healing with Shockwave Therapy

Dr. Beth Ringwelski, DC, CCSP
December 22nd, 2024

Chronic injuries and recent setbacks can significantly disrupt anyone, often sidelining individuals for months or even years. When technology emerges that can effectively treat both chronic and acute injuries, it should be readily accessible to everyone.

This is precisely the promise of shockwave therapy. Also known as EPAT or ESWT, shockwave therapy has gained recognition, particularly in Europe, over the past few years. It is a non-invasive treatment that essentially reinitiates the body’s natural healing process without the need for medication or surgery. It may sound almost too good to be true, but its efficacy has garnered acceptance within the medical community, with institutions like the Mayo Clinic incorporating it as a treatment option for certain patients

So, what exactly is shockwave therapy? This innovative approach utilizes either acoustic pressure waves or magnetic energy to deliver impulses to the injured tissues. It can be effective for a variety of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, knee osteoarthritis, and shin splint stress fractures, among others. The energy produced during the treatment stimulates the body’s own healing cells to infiltrate the affected area, rejuvenating the healing process even for injuries that are years old, or accelerating recovery for more recent injuries. This technology is already employed in local NBA and MLB treatment facilities, highlighting its potential to facilitate healing without forcing athletes to sit on the sidelines.

In addition to its growing use among professional athletes, shockwave therapy is becoming increasingly popular among amateur runners and fitness enthusiasts who seek a swift recovery from injuries that hinder their passion for the sport. Many physiotherapists and sports medicine specialists now offer this treatment, recognizing its ability to enhance recovery times and improve overall outcomes for their patients.

One of the most appealing aspects of shockwave therapy is its convenience. Typically, sessions last between 10 to 20 minutes, and most patients require only a few treatments to experience significant improvements. This makes it an attractive option for individuals leading busy lives who cannot afford lengthy recovery periods or frequent doctor visits.

Moreover, shockwave therapy is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. Patients may experience mild discomfort during the procedure, similar to a deep tissue massage, but this sensation usually subsides quickly. The benefits, however, often outweigh any temporary discomfort, with many patients reporting noticeable reductions in pain and improvements in mobility shortly after treatment.

As the popularity of shockwave therapy continues to grow, ongoing research aims to further understand and optimize its applications. Scientists and medical professionals are exploring its potential use for a broader range of conditions, such as diabetic neuropathies and certain types of soft tissue injuries. With continued advancements, shockwave therapy could revolutionize the way we approach injury treatment and rehabilitation, offering hope to countless individuals striving to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Understanding Diastasis Recti: Who It Affects and How DNS Can Help

Dr. Beth Ringwelski, DC, CCSP
October 12th, 2024

Diastasis recti is a common condition characterized by the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, which form the front wall of the abdomen. This separation occurs primarily in the midline of the abdomen and is often a concern during and after pregnancy. However, it can also affect individuals who are not pregnant, including men, women, and children.

Who it Affects

Diastasis recti is most frequently seen in pregnant women, particularly during the third trimester or shortly after childbirth. The added weight and hormonal changes during pregnancy can weaken the connective tissue, leading to the separation of the abdominal muscles. It can affect individuals of any age, and while it is particularly prevalent among new mothers, it is not limited to this group.

Men and women alike can experience diastasis recti due to factors such as obesity, heavy weight lifting, or any activity that places excessive strain on the abdominal muscles. Genetics may also play a role in the predisposition to this condition. Signs of diastasis recti can include a visible bulge or "pooch" in the abdomen, especially when engaging the core muscles, and difficulty with core strength and stability.

How DNS Can Help

Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) is a therapy designed to restore proper movement patterns and muscle function. It can be an effective approach to treating diastasis recti by addressing the underlying muscular imbalances. Here’s how DNS may help:

  1. Re-establishing Core Stability: DNS focuses on re-training the body to stabilize the core effectively. This is crucial for individuals with diastasis recti, as a strong core improves posture and alleviates additional strain on the abdominal muscles.

  2. Improving Muscle Coordination: DNS techniques work to enhance the coordination between various muscle groups. By promoting optimal function in the diaphragm, pelvic floor, and abdominal muscles, DNS can assist in closing the gap in the rectus muscles.

  3. Integrating Functional Movements: The DNS approach emphasizes functional movements that mimic daily activities. By incorporating these movements into rehabilitation, patients can achieve lasting changes and improve their overall physical function.

  4. Addressing Pelvic Floor Health: Since the core and pelvic floor work together, DNS can also promote pelvic floor strength and stability. This is especially beneficial for postpartum women who may have weakened pelvic floor muscles.

  5. Reducing Pain and Discomfort: As diastasis recti can lead to discomfort, pain, and functional limitations, DNS therapy can help alleviate these issues, enabling patients to return to their regular activities with more confidence.

Diastasis recti is a condition that can affect various individuals, particularly postpartum women, but it is not limited to this group. Utilizing Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization can provide a comprehensive and effective strategy for addressing this condition by enhancing core stability, improving muscle coordination, and facilitating overall functional movement. If you suspect you may be experiencing diastasis recti, consider consulting with a healthcare professional who can guide you through appropriate treatment options, including DNS.

SHOCKWAVE THERAPY

Dr. Beth Ringwelski, DC, CCSP
July 29th, 2024



Utilizing Shockwave Therapy for Pain Relief

Shockwave therapy has been gaining popularity in the medical field as a non-invasive treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions. This innovative approach utilizes acoustic waves to target areas of pain and promote healing, offering patients an alternative to surgery or medication.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

During a shockwave therapy session, high-energy acoustic waves are applied to the affected area of the body. These waves help stimulate the body's natural healing process by increasing blood flow, breaking down scar tissue, and stimulating the production of collagen. This can lead to reduced pain, improved mobility, and accelerated recovery.

Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is commonly used to treat a wide-range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis: Shockwave therapy can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the plantar fascia, the tissue on the bottom of the foot.

  • Tennis Elbow: By targeting the affected tendons in the elbow, shockwave therapy can help alleviate pain and improve function.

  • Achilles Tendinopathy: Shockwave therapy can stimulate healing in the Achilles tendon, reducing pain and improving range of motion.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

There are several benefits to using shockwave therapy as a treatment option, including:

  • Non-invasive: Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment that does not require incisions or anesthesia.

  • Fast Recovery: Many patients experience immediate pain relief after a shockwave therapy session, with continued improvement over time.

  • No Downtime: Unlike surgery, shockwave therapy typically does not require any downtime, allowing patients to resume their normal activities quickly.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

Before undergoing shockwave therapy, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if this treatment is suitable for your condition. While shockwave therapy is generally safe and effective, it may not be suitable for everyone.

If you are experiencing chronic pain or have been diagnosed with a musculoskeletal condition, consider exploring the benefits of shockwave therapy as a non-invasive treatment option. Speak with your healthcare provider to see if shockwave therapy could help you find relief and restore your quality of life.

Stepping On Toes

Dr. Beth Ringwelski DC, CCSP
March 21st, 2024

Chiropractic Treatment for Feet and Bunions with Correct Toes

At Front Runner Chiropractic, we understand the importance of caring for your feet to maintain overall wellness. Bunions, a common foot condition causing a bony bump to form at the base of the big toe, can lead to discomfort and affect mobility. Fortunately, chiropractic care can offer effective treatment options for addressing bunions and improving foot health.

Chiropractic Care for Bunions

Chiropractic treatment for bunions focuses on realigning the foot's structure to reduce pressure on the affected area. By adjusting the joints in the foot and ankle, chiropractors can help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with bunions. Additionally, chiropractic adjustments can improve joint function and mobility, promoting overall foot health. Simple strengthening exercises can fix weak areas that may be contributing to your foot ailments. A simple activity to include is Toe Yoga.

The Role of Correct Toes

Correct Toes is a toe-spacing device designed to help align the toes naturally and prevent common foot problems like bunions. By encouraging proper toe alignment, Correct Toes can reduce the progression of bunions and provide relief from foot pain. When used in conjunction with chiropractic care, Correct Toes can enhance the effectiveness of treatment for bunions and promote long-term foot health. When the big toe gets bent or angled, it changes the mechanics of gait. These patients tend to walk OFF the joint vs THROUGH the joint and have their feet rotates out to the side, also impacting the knee and hip joints.
We prefer Correct Toes due to the durability of their product, ease of use and easy cleaning.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care on foot health

Combining chiropractic adjustments with the use of Correct Toes can offer several benefits for individuals dealing with bunions and other foot issues. These benefits may include:

  • Pain Relief: Chiropractic care and Correct Toes can help alleviate pain associated with bunions by addressing the underlying causes of discomfort. Chronic issues like plantar fasciitis or achilles tendonosis can be fixed with Shock Wave therapy.

  • Improved Mobility: By enhancing foot alignment and function, chiropractic treatment and Correct Toes can improve mobility and range of motion.

  • Prevention of Progression: Correct Toes can help prevent bunions from worsening over time, while chiropractic adjustments can address contributing factors to bunion development. Corrective exercises to strengthen the feet are also an essential part of your foot health journey.

  • Overall Foot Health: Taking a holistic approach to foot care through chiropractic treatment and adding Correct Toes can promote overall foot health and wellness.

Visit Front Runner Chiropractic for Foot Care

If you are seeking relief from bunions or looking to improve your foot health, consider visiting Front Runner Chiropractic for personalized care and treatment options. Our experienced chiropractors can create a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, incorporating chiropractic adjustments and innovative tools like Shock Wave and EMTT to support your foot health journey.

Take the first step towards healthier feet.

Remember, proper foot care is essential for maintaining overall well-being.

Stay tuned for more tips and insights on optimizing your health and wellness with Front Runner Chiropractic.

The Power of Chiropractic Care in Enhancing Athletic Performance

Dr. Beth Ringwelski, DC, CCSP
January 16th, 2024

As aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts, we all strive for greatness on the field, track, court, or mat. We dedicate endless hours to training, conditioning, and perfecting our skills. But have you ever considered that chiropractic care could be the missing piece in unlocking your full Pathletic potential?
Chiropractic care is a holistic and non-invasive approach to healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. It aims to optimize overall health.
One of the key benefits of chiropractic care for athletes is the prevention and treatment of injuries. Regular chiropractic care can help in reducing the risk of strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal injuries. By keeping the body in optimal condition, athletes can stay in the game longer and recover quickly from intense physical activity.
Furthermore, chiropractic care can enhance an athlete's flexibility and range of motion. A properly aligned spine allows for improved joint mobility, which is vital for achieving maximal athletic performance. Whether you're a baseball player throwing a pitch, a dancer executing a split, or a gymnast performing a backflip, your ability to move freely and without restrictions directly impacts your athletic prowess.
Additionally, chiropractic care plays a significant role in optimizing athletic recovery. Intense physical activity can place stress on the body, leading to muscle fatigue, decreased performance, and delayed recovery. Chiropractic can stimulate the body's natural healing process, improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the delivery of vital nutrients to the muscles and tissues. This aids in faster recovery from training sessions and competitions, ultimately enabling athletes to reach their peak performance more consistently.
Whether you're an elite athlete or an enthusiastic amateur, chiropractic care can be a game-changer in your athletic journey. It offers a holistic approach to health and wellness, targeting not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of dysfunction. By optimizing proper alignment, promoting flexibility, managing pain, and accelerating recovery, chiropractic care empowers athletes to unleash their full potential.

Does cold weather affect my arthritis?

Dr Beth Ringwelski, DC, CCSP
December 15th, 2023

Yes, it does. Cold weather and changes in air pressure can make your joints ache. Cold causes tissues to shrink and air pressure can put pressure on our joints. In winter, these changes can increase pain signals and lead to joint pain.

Here are some easy ways to combat the pain.

Eat a healthy diet by avoiding foods that cause inflammation, such as sugar, fried food, dairy, and wheat. Instead, focus on consuming protein-rich foods like grass-fed meat or wild-caught salmon, along with leafy greens and a small amount of nuts. These choices can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

Staying active is crucial for managing arthritis pain, regardless of the weather. Regular exercise can help strengthen your muscles and improve joint flexibility. In colder weather, you might consider indoor exercises like swimming, yoga, or using a stationary bike. These low-impact activities can help keep your joints moving without putting excessive strain on them.

Dehydration can worsen joint pain and stiffness. It's important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration helps to keep your joints lubricated and reduces friction between them.

Applying moist heat to your joints can provide relief from arthritis pain during the cold weather. You can use warm towels, heating pads, or take warm baths or showers to soothe your joints. The moist heat helps to relax your muscles and improve blood circulation to the affected areas, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

For people with arthritis, not having enough vitamin D can make joint pain worse. When the body doesn't have enough vitamin D, the immune system is affected, which can cause more inflammation and pain in arthritic joints.

Including vitamin K2 in the supplement along with vitamin D3 makes it even better. Vitamin K2 helps the body use calcium correctly, making sure it goes where it should be, in the bones, and not in soft tissues like arteries and kidneys. Taking both vitamin D3 and K2 together supports bone health and lowers the risk of problems caused by too much or too little calcium.

If you're experiencing persistent joint pain during cold weather, it may be beneficial to consult a chiropractor. Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve joint restrictions, reduce inflammation, and improve overall joint function. Remember, while cold weather may exacerbate your arthritis symptoms, there are steps you can take to manage discomfort and improve joint health.

TMJ Dysfunction Relief

Dr. Beth Ringwelski, DC, CCSP
July 14th, 2023


Jaw pain can be more than just a pain; it but a down right nuisance. TMJD (temporal mandibular joint dysfunction) can contribute to migrainous headaches, facial pain, difficulty chewing and even locking of the TMJ joint.
But what can be done? A visit in to your dentist is always a start. Are you clenching or grinding? Have you damaged any teeth?

  • TMJ Orthotic
    Your dentist can fit you with an oral orthotic to wear at night to keep you from damaging your teeth, but also to keep your teeth slightly apart to take pressure off the temporal mandibular joint.

  • Active Release Techniques (ART®)/Myofascial Release
    There are a handful of muscles on your face and head that can contribute to pain from a TMJ Dysfunction. With ART or myofascial release, we can work to loosen your Masseter muscle which is located on your cheek, close to the TMJ. We also focus on your Temporalis muscle which is located above your ear on your skull. This muscle can be very tender if it is tight and patients often say that working on this muscle recreates their headache sensation. A deeper muscle inside your mouth, called the Medial Pterygoid is named this way as it looks like a Pterodactyl wing. It is deep inside and helps open the jaw. This muscle is suprisinging tender and often gives the patient the most relief when released. And lastly the Digastric muscle which is located under your chin. Working these 4 muscle can give patients with TMJD great relief.

  • Dry Needling
    Dry needling is also an effective way to treat pain associated with TMJD. It works synergistically with soft tissue releases mentioned above. With dry needling, we focus on the Masseter and the Temporalis muscles. Dry needling is effective at elevating trigger points within a muscle. The needles used are very small, fine acupuncture needles and is very comfortable to the patient. Instant relief is noted by the patient.

  • At-Home Correction
    We have found that correcting the times throughout the day where you might clench or grind can be an effective way to treat TMJD. This is a very simple correction. If a patient does this correction throughout the day when they find themselves clenching or grinding, there is over a 60% correlation with them also decreasing those actions while sleeping. Next time you find yourself clenching or grinding, do these two simple steps.
    1. Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth.
    2. Keep your teeth apart and your lips together.
    Do these two corrections and in 3 weeks, you should notice a positive change in your clenching/grinding at night.

Pregnancy and Chiropractic

Dr. Beth Ringwelski, DC, CCSP
May 11th, 2023

Pregnancy is one of the great moments in a woman’s life, but sometimes it may not feel that way. Aches, pains, and bladder issues are just a few of the common complaints we hear from women who accept these as a normal part of the pregnancy journey.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.


What to look for

Any chiropractic adjustment will be good for Mommy throughout the duration of her pregnancy. However, there is a specialized technique called Webster Technique, that has been observed clinically to have improved pregnancy outcomes. I always suggest that pregnant patients or their loved ones looking for a chiropractor during their pregnancy look for a certified Webster Technique practitioner at www.icpa4kids.com.

What is Webster Technique

Webster Technique is a specific analysis and gentle adjustment. The adjustment is to reduce the effects that are caused by an SI joint (sacroiliac joint) dysfunction. The objective is to improve the neurobiomechanical function of the sacral and pelvic area.

What does Webster Technique do

A sacrum, or tailbone subluxation, may contribute to a hard labor for the mother caused by poor uterine function, pelvic contraction and/or a mal-presentation of the baby. Adjusting and correcting the tailbone subluxation can have a positive effect on all of these issues.
As a practitioner, the Webster Technique will address 6 different contributions to the tailbone misalignment. We will assess your tailbone and loosen adjacent muscles and ligaments; all very comfortably.

Personal Experience

I had bladder issues as the weeks went on with my pregnancy. I had a bit too much pride to think more about it as it was a “part of pregnancy”. Moms will always look for those kicks and movements, no matter how uncomfortable they can be. One day I woke up around 23 weeks and there was less movement. Baby seemed to have moved and wasn’t as wiggly. My OB reassured me and everything checked out normal. I sought out a Webster Certified Chiropractor. The adjustment was very thorough and very gentle. She worked on the round ligament which gave me instant relief to some of my aches and pains. The next morning, I awoke to baby bumbling around as usual and my bladder issues were resolved. I was so elated with the relief that I became certified in Webster Technique myself.

There is so much change in your body during pregnancy that it makes sense to take care of yourself. Look for a Webster Certified practitioner during your pregnancy. I’m happy I did.

“It’s a Game Changer”

Dr. Beth Ringwelski, DC, CCSP
January 13, 2023



Do any of these sound like you? A weekend warrior laid-up after a debilitating hamstring injury. Hard laborer with back pain from all the bending and heavy lifting you do at work. Parent to a high-level basketball player sidelined with a shoulder injury.  Or maybe suffering from a muscle injury from performing a household chore.

Whatever your injury may be, the key to returning you and to your former healthy self might be tricking your body into recovery. Your answer may come from Shock Wave Therapy and EMTT (Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy).

Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy, or Shock Wave, is a non-invasive treatment that delivers acoustic pressure waves into injured tissue from the surface of the skin to reduce pain and promote healing. This procedure produces a micro-trauma that tricks your body into thinking it has been injured thus increasing blood-flow and stimulating an acute healing response. Shock Wave is FDA-approved and works through a process called mechanotransduction, which initiates an inflammatory response. A decrease in blood flow is a large contributing factor to slowed healing in bones, muscles and tendons. Shock wave stimulates the growth of new blood vessels through angiogenesis. Most patient need between 3-6 treatments that take around 15 minutes to complete. The healing process in a typical injury is 12 weeks; and by tricking your body into healing all over again, we get another 12 weeks of healing through tissue remodeling and regeneration. It’s a game changer.

EMTT, extracorporeal magnetotransduction therapy, works from a cellular level as well, but through a very difference process. EMTT is also a non-invasive treatment that treats painful areas of the body with high-energy magnetic pulses, which yields a therapeutic response in the cells by effecting your cells permeability, specifically at your sodium-potassium pumps.
In essence, the pulses created at a cellular level by the EMTT will open channels in your body that allow for more fluid exchange in and our of your cells.

In our office, we have seen amazing changes in pain from osteoarthritis, sports injuries and chronic pain such as low back pain or radiculopathy. This device is completely touch-free and does not have to make contact with your body. Commonly a light “vibrating” or “fluid” feeling is felt in the area of treatment and most patients notice less pain or even no pain after the treatment. There have been many tears of joy and expressions of pure shock after EMTT. We have been coupling this treatment in with Shock Wave so we can take advantage of the increased blood flow produced by that treatment, and pass more nutrients to your cells.

Stimulating your bodies healing process and re-activating cell processes have been a game changer for patients.