Activator:
A spring-loaded adjusting instrument that utilizes an extremely rapid pulse to help restore normal functioning in the body.
Acupressure:
The practice of applying pressure on parts of the body to relieve pain.
Acupuncture:
The practice of inserting fine needles on specific meridian points to relieve tension, stress, and pain. Highly effective in treating and easing back pain.
Addiction:
Psychological, emotional, or physical dependence on the effects of a drug.
Adjustments:
A chiropractic technique involving gentle yet firm pressure on a bone using a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust. The goal is to restore the bone to its natural position.
Adrenal Glands:
Small glands located on the kidneys that produce stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol.
Adrenaline:
A hormone that stimulates metabolism, increases alertness, and raises blood pressure.
Aerobic Exercises:
Exercises involving large muscle groups that strengthen the heart and lungs.
AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome):
The final and most serious stage of HIV disease, which severely damages the immune system. It is defined by a CD4 cell count below 200 and the presence of opportunistic infections or cancers.
Alternative Medicine:
The use of various natural, non-drug, and non-surgical therapies for treatment and healing.
Amino Acid:
The building blocks of proteins. Essential amino acids must be obtained through diet, while non-essential amino acids can be produced by the body.
Anabolism:
The metabolic process of building new tissue—commonly used in reference to muscle, ligament, and tendon growth.
Analgesics:
Medications used to relieve pain, such as aspirin.
Anesthesiologist:
A physician specializing in administering drugs or other agents that block, prevent, or relieve pain.
Ankylosing Spondylitis:
A chronic, progressive rheumatic disease that causes calcification of spinal ligaments, leading to stiffness and reduced movement.
Annulus Fibrosis:
The tough outer layer of the intervertebral disc, formed of cartilage-like rings surrounding the soft center (nucleus pulposus).
Arthritis:
Inflammation of a joint, often caused by degenerative changes due to aging. It can affect joints and connective tissues throughout the body.
Autonomic Nervous System:
The part of the nervous system responsible for controlling involuntary functions such as digestion, metabolism, and blood pressure.
Back Extension:
Backward bending of the spine.
Back Flexion:
Forward bending of the spine.
Bariatric Surgery:
Surgery performed on the stomach and/or intestines to help patients with severe obesity lose weight. It is typically a last-resort method for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) over 40.
Basal Energy Expenditure (BEE):
Also known as the basal metabolic rate (BMR). It refers to the number of calories your body needs to maintain basic functions such as breathing, digestion, and brain activity.
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA):
A method used to estimate body composition by measuring how easily a harmless electrical current passes through the body. Fat slows down electrical flow, while muscle and water conduct it more easily.
Body Composition Score (BCS):
A combined measure of body weight, body fat percentage, waist circumference, and hip circumference. It provides a more accurate assessment of weight loss progress than body weight alone.
Body Mass Index (BMI):
A calculation comparing body weight to height to determine if a person is underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese.
18.5–24.9: Healthy
25–29.9: Overweight
30 or higher: Obese
Bodywork:
A general term for various hands-on therapies, such as massage and movement-based treatments, aimed at improving physical function and relaxation.
Bulging Disc:
Occurs when the outer portion of a spinal disc (annulus) weakens, causing the inner material (nucleus) to push outward and press on nearby nerves, resulting in pain or discomfort.
Bursitis:
Inflammation of the bursa—small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction around joints—causing pain and restricted movement
Calorie:
A unit of energy in food. Carbohydrates and proteins each provide 4 calories per gram, while fat provides 9 calories per gram.
Carbohydrate:
A primary source of energy in the diet. There are two types—simple (sugars) and complex (starches and fiber). Found naturally in fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy, but also in sugary foods like desserts and soft drinks.
Cardiovascular System:
The body’s system responsible for circulating blood through the heart, arteries, capillaries, and veins.
Catabolism:
The metabolic process of breaking down tissues, often referring to the breakdown of muscle, bone, ligaments, or tendons.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
A progressive joint condition caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, leading to swelling, pain, and numbness.
Cartilage:
A smooth, flexible connective tissue that lines the ends of bones and joints, including the facet joints of the spine.
Cauda Equina:
The bundle of nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal cord, resembling a horse’s tail.
Cervical Spine:
The uppermost section of the spine, also known as the neck.
Chinese Medicine:
An ancient healing system that includes acupuncture, herbal remedies, massage, and Qi Gong to promote balance and health.
Chiropractic:
Derived from the Greek words “chiro” (hand) and “practic” (practice). A healthcare discipline focused on restoring alignment, motion, and function—especially in the spine.
Chiropractor:
A Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) who diagnoses and treats conditions of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, emphasizing spinal health.
Chronic Pain:
Pain lasting longer than three months, often with emotional or psychological effects that limit daily activities.
Cholesterol:
A waxy, fat-like substance found in animal products and produced by the body. High cholesterol can cause buildup in arteries, increasing heart disease risk. Levels under 200 mg/dl are considered desirable.
Cortisol:
A hormone released by the adrenal glands during stress. It promotes fat storage and can break down muscle and connective tissue.
Coccyx:
Also called the tailbone, this small triangular bone at the base of the spine supports posture and balance.
Cognitive Restructuring:
A therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns—essentially learning to “make molehills out of mountains.”
Complementary Medicine:
Non-surgical, non-drug therapies used alongside conventional medicine, often involving natural healing methods.
Compressed Nerve:
Occurs when material from a bulging or herniated disc presses on a spinal nerve, causing sharp or radiating pain.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan:
A detailed imaging test that uses X-rays and computer processing to create three-dimensional cross-sectional views of bones and discs.
Cordotomy:
A surgical procedure that cuts certain fibers of the spinal cord to relieve severe, chronic pain.
Cranio-Sacral Therapy:
A gentle manual therapy that focuses on manipulating the bones of the skull and sacrum to improve nervous system function and relieve tension.
Cyclooxygenase:
An enzyme that exists in two forms—Type I supports body functions, and Type II contributes to inflammation. COX-2 inhibitors target only Type II to reduce inflammation without affecting normal processes.
Degenerative Arthritis:
The gradual wearing away of cartilage that protects and cushions joints, including those in the spine, hands, and feet. (See Osteoarthritis.)
Degenerative Disc Disease:
A condition involving the breakdown of spinal discs that cushion the vertebrae, often leading to pain and narrowing of the disc space.
Diabetes Mellitus:
A disease that occurs when the body cannot properly use blood glucose (sugar). It develops when the pancreas produces insufficient insulin or when the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.
Disc Annulus:
The tough, outer layer of an intervertebral disc. (See Annulus Fibrosis.)
Disc Nucleus:
The soft, inner core of an intervertebral disc. (See Nucleus Pulposus.)
Discectomy:
A surgical procedure that involves removing part or all of a herniated spinal disc to relieve pressure on a nerve.
Diet:
The food and beverages a person consumes regularly; can also refer to a structured eating plan for health or medical purposes.
Electrical Nerve Stimulation:
A type of physical therapy that uses controlled electrical currents with various frequencies and waveforms to provide therapeutic effects on the nervous and musculoskeletal systems.
Electromyography (EMG):
A diagnostic procedure that measures electrical activity in muscles and nerves to help identify nerve damage and determine if surgical treatment is necessary.
Endorphins:
Natural chemical messengers released by the body during physical activity that promote feelings of happiness, relaxation, and pain relief.
Energy Expenditure:
The total amount of energy, measured in calories, that a person uses to perform basic bodily functions such as breathing, blood circulation, digestion, and physical activity.
Epidural Injection:
An injection administered into the area surrounding the spinal cord (epidural space) to relieve pain and inflammation.
Exercise:
Planned or structured physical activity involving repetitive movement to improve or maintain cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, flexibility, and overall health.
Exercise Therapy:
A chiropractic treatment approach that uses guided physical exercises to reduce pain, rehabilitate muscles and soft tissues, and restore mobility and function.
Extensor Muscles:
Muscles responsible for straightening joints, such as the back and gluteal muscles, which help maintain posture and support spinal alignment.
Fat:
A major source of energy in the diet, providing 9 calories per gram. Fat helps the body absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K, and carotenoids. While saturated fats can raise cholesterol and increase heart disease risk, unsaturated fats support healthy cholesterol levels.
Facet Joints:
The small joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae that enable the spine to bend, twist, and remain stable. They play a key role in spinal flexibility and support.
Facet Joint Syndrome:
A painful condition caused by degeneration, inflammation, or pressure on the facet joints that connect vertebrae in the spine.
Fascia:
A thin layer of connective tissue that surrounds and separates muscles, organs, and other internal structures, providing support and reducing friction during movement.
Fibromyalgia:
A chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in muscles, ligaments, and tendons, often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and tenderness.
Fibrositis:
Pain and inflammation in muscle or connective tissues, typically resulting from injury or repetitive strain.
Foraminal Stenosis:
The narrowing of the openings (foramina) in the spine where nerve roots exit, often leading to nerve compression and pain.
Flexor Muscles:
Muscles responsible for bending joints, such as the biceps in the arms or the abdominal muscles in the torso.
Fusion:
A surgical procedure that permanently joins two or more vertebrae using bone grafts or metal supports to stabilize and immobilize the affected spinal segment.
Gestational Diabetes:
A temporary form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, usually in the second half. It causes elevated blood glucose levels, which typically return to normal after delivery. However, women with gestational diabetes have a higher risk of developing Type II diabetes later in life.
Ghrelin:
A hormone produced by the stomach and small intestine that stimulates appetite and promotes the sensation of hunger.
Glucagon:
A hormone secreted by the pancreas that increases blood sugar levels by triggering the release of glucose stored in the liver and muscles.
Glucose:
A simple sugar and primary energy source for the body. It is derived from carbohydrates during digestion and transported through the bloodstream to provide fuel for cells.
Glycemic Index:
A numerical measure that indicates how quickly a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood glucose levels. Low glycemic index foods cause slower, steadier increases in blood sugar.
Golfer’s Elbow:
A condition causing pain on the inner side of the elbow, often due to inflammation or small tears in the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the elbow bone.
Healthy Weight:
A weight range that is less likely to be linked with health issues such as Type II diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. Typically, individuals with a body fat percentage between 18% and 22% (depending on age) are considered to be at a healthy weight.
Heat Therapy:
A treatment method used to relieve chronic pain and muscle stiffness by applying heat through pads, wraps, or therapeutic ultrasound. Heat therapy promotes relaxation, enhances circulation, and complements ice therapy in reducing pain and swelling.
Herniated Disc:
A condition in which a spinal disc slips or bulges out of its normal position, often due to injury. This can cause the soft inner material of the disc to press on nearby nerves, resulting in pain or discomfort.
High Blood Pressure:
Also known as Hypertension, this condition occurs when resting blood pressure is consistently at or above 140/90 mm Hg, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL):
Often referred to as “good cholesterol,” HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Higher HDL levels (60 mg/dl or greater) are protective against heart disease, while low HDL levels increase risk.
Hip Circumference:
A measurement taken around the widest part of the hips and buttocks, used along with waist circumference, weight, and body fat percentage to assess body composition and health risk.
Hypertension:
A chronic condition characterized by elevated blood pressure levels of 140/90 mm Hg or higher. It can lead to serious cardiovascular complications if left unmanaged.
Hypothalamus:
A small but vital region in the brain that regulates hunger, sleep, and hormonal activity. It interacts with hormones such as ghrelin and leptin to control appetite and energy balance.
Ice Massage:
A therapy that applies ice to injured areas, including back or neck pain. Ice constricts veins, reducing blood flow and numbing pain. When removed, blood flow increases, delivering healing chemicals to the area.
Instrument Adjustment:
A chiropractic technique that uses a spring-loaded device, such as the Activator, to apply precise adjustments to the spine or joints.
Interferential Current (IFC):
A form of electrical therapy (similar to TENS) that delivers high-frequency electrical impulses deep into tissues to relieve pain.
Ideal Body Weight:
The weight a person would have if their body fat percentage were approximately 20%, calculated by multiplying current lean body mass by 1.2.
Imagery:
A pain management technique that uses mental visualization, drawing on memory or imagination, to reduce discomfort and promote relaxation.
Insulin:
A hormone that regulates blood sugar by helping move glucose from the blood into muscles and other tissues for energy or storage.
Inflammation:
A biological response to injury or infection characterized by redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function. It contributes to both tissue damage and the healing process.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
A gastrointestinal disorder marked by abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation.
Kinesiology:
The scientific study of muscles and their role in movement, posture, and pain relief.
Kyphosis:
Refers to the normal curvature of the thoracic spine. It can also describe an excessive outward curvature, often called a “dowager’s hump,” commonly seen in individuals with osteoporosis.
Laminectomy:
A surgical procedure that removes a portion of the vertebral plate at the back of the spinal canal to relieve pressure, commonly used to treat herniated discs and spinal stenosis.
Leptin:
A hormone produced by the small intestine that signals the brain to stop eating. People who are overweight may have a reduced leptin response.
Ligament:
Strong, dense bands of connective tissue that stabilize joints by connecting bones to other bones.
Lipoprotein:
Protein-based compounds that transport fats and fat-like substances, including cholesterol, through the bloodstream.
Local Anesthetics:
Drugs that temporarily block nerve conduction in a specific area to prevent pain during medical procedures.
Lordosis:
The natural curve of the cervical and lumbar spine. Excessive curvature in the lower back is sometimes called swayback.
Low Back Pain:
Pain occurring at the base of the spine, which can result from injury, muscle strain, degenerative changes, or other causes.
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL):
Known as “bad cholesterol,” LDL carries cholesterol in the blood. High LDL levels increase the risk of heart disease. Optimal levels are under 100 mg/dl, with increasing risk at higher levels.
Lumbalgia:
A general term for low back pain (see Low Back Pain).
Lumbar:
The five lower vertebrae located between the thoracic spine and the sacrum, responsible for bearing much of the body’s weight.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
A diagnostic technique using magnetic radiofrequency energy to visualize internal body structures, including bones, discs, and nerves, without X-rays. It is highly effective for evaluating spinal abnormalities.
Manipulation:
Manual adjustment or movement of spinal bones or joints to restore proper alignment and function.
Massage Therapy:
A broad term encompassing various techniques of bodywork aimed at relaxing muscles, improving circulation, and reducing pain.
Maximum Heart Rate:
The estimated highest heart rate a person can achieve, calculated as 220 minus age. For example, a 50-year-old would have a maximum heart rate of 170 beats per minute. It is used to determine exercise intensity.
Meditation:
A practice that focuses awareness on a specific object, thought, or activity—such as breath or a phrase—to calm the mind and promote relaxation.
Metabolism:
All chemical processes in the body that convert food into energy usable for bodily functions and movement.
Moderate-Intensity Physical Activity:
Exercise requiring sustained rhythmic movement that raises the heart rate to 50%–70% of maximum. One should feel exertion but still be able to speak comfortably.
Monounsaturated Fat:
A type of dietary fat found in canola oil, olives, nuts, seeds, and avocados. It may help reduce cholesterol levels and lower heart disease risk when used in place of saturated fat.
Muscle Tension:
A state in which muscles remain partially contracted, often causing stiffness or discomfort.
Muscle Spasm:
A sudden, involuntary, and often painful contraction of a muscle or group of muscles that can interfere with normal function.
Muscles:
Soft tissues that provide strength, enable movement, and support the spine during bending and flexing.
Myofascial Pain:
Pain referred from trigger points or hardened nodules within muscle tissue.
Myofascial Release:
A technique that gently stretches and releases fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles) to relieve tension and improve mobility.
Narcotic:
A pain-relieving drug related to opiates, capable of significantly altering mood and creating potential dependence with repeated use.
Nerve:
A component of the body’s communication system that transmits signals between the brain and all parts of the body.
Nerve Block:
A procedure in which an anesthetic is injected into a specific nerve to provide targeted pain relief.
Nerve Roots:
Projections from the spinal cord that transmit sensory and motor information between the body and the brain.
Neurologist:
A physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the nervous system.
Neuropeptide Y:
A key neurotransmitter that stimulates hunger by signaling the hypothalamus to eat, acting in opposition to leptin.
Neurosurgeon:
A physician specializing in surgical procedures on the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.
Neurotransmitter:
A chemical messenger produced in the brain that transmits signals between nerve cells.
Nucleus Pulposus:
The soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc that provides cushioning and flexibility between vertebrae.
Nutrition:
The study and practice of how food impacts the health, growth, and overall well-being of the body.
Obesity:
Having an excessive amount of body fat. A person is considered obese if their body mass index (BMI) is 30 kg/m² or higher.
Oleylethanolamine (OEA):
A fatty acid found in certain foods that signals the brain to stop eating, acting as a powerful appetite suppressant.
Opiate:
A pain-relieving drug chemically related to opium; also referred to as a narcotic (see Narcotics).
Orthopedic Surgeon:
A physician specializing in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system.
Osteoarthritis:
Also called degenerative arthritis, this condition primarily affects middle-aged and elderly individuals. It causes cartilage breakdown in joints, including spinal facet joints, leading to pain, stiffness, nerve irritation, and limited movement.
Osteopathic Medicine:
A form of medicine emphasizing the musculoskeletal system, where treatment involves specific manipulations of muscles, joints, bones, and nerves.
Osteoporosis:
A disease characterized by decreased bone density, making bones brittle and more prone to fractures. Commonly affects the spine, wrists, and hips.
Osteophytes:
Bone overgrowths, also called bone spurs, formed in response to joint degeneration. They may press on nerves, causing pain and limiting movement.
Overload Principle:
A strength-training concept stating that muscles grow stronger only when challenged with near-maximal effort or stress.
Overuse Injuries:
Injuries caused by repetitive use of muscles or joints during everyday activities or exercise, often resulting in pain, spasms, and stiffness.
Overweight:
Carrying excess body fat. See Obesity for reference.
Pancreas:
A gland that produces digestive enzymes and the hormones insulin and glucagon, helping the body digest food and regulate blood sugar levels.
Pedometer:
A small device worn on the waistband or in a pocket that counts steps taken, distance walked, and other related movement metrics.
Piriformis Syndrome:
A condition caused by compression of the sciatic nerve as it exits the spinal column, often due to muscle spasms. It may cause pain from the buttocks down to the knee or numbness in the feet.
Plantar Fasciitis:
Inflammation of the ligament running from the front of the heel to the bottom of the foot, often associated with repetitive stress from running, quick movements, or sports activities.
Phenylethanolamine (PEA):
A chemical found in chocolate that can elevate mood and is thought to contribute to chocolate cravings.
Physical Activity:
Any movement or exercise, including planned activities such as walking, running, or sports, as well as everyday tasks like chores, yard work, or walking pets.
Physical Fitness:
A measure of a person’s ability to perform activities requiring endurance, strength, or flexibility, influenced by both regular activity and genetic factors.
Physical Therapy:
A healthcare profession that treats pain and improves function in muscles, nerves, joints, and bones through exercise, electrical stimulation, hydrotherapy, massage, heat, and cold therapy.
Polyunsaturated Fat:
A type of fat found in foods such as corn, soybean, and safflower oils, as well as many nuts. Polyunsaturated fats can support heart health but still provide 9 calories per gram and may contribute to weight gain if overconsumed.
Protein:
An essential nutrient that provides 4 calories per gram and supports the building of muscle, bone, skin, blood, and other body tissues. Found in meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy, beans, nuts, and tofu.
Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA):
The level of intake of essential nutrients considered sufficient to meet the nutritional needs of most healthy individuals.
Relaxation Techniques:
Methods that can be learned to reduce stress, alleviate tension, decrease anxiety, and manage pain naturally.
Repetitions or “Reps”:
A single full execution of an exercise movement. The number of repetitions influences muscle development: higher weights with fewer reps build strength, while lower weights with more reps enhance endurance.
Routine:
The structure of an exercise session, including exercises, repetitions, sets, order, and duration. Often referred to as a “program” or “workout,” routines can be modified to maintain variety and effectiveness.
Rheumatoid Arthritis:
An inflammatory condition affecting the facet joints in the spine and other joints such as hands, elbows, shoulders, fingers, and toes.
Ruptured Disk:
A type of herniated disk where material from the disk protrudes through its outer lining, potentially compressing nearby nerves and causing pain.
Satiety:
A mechanism that signals the body it has had enough food. Key satiety compounds include the hormone leptin and the fatty acid oleylethanolamine (OEA).
Saturated Fat:
A fat that is solid at room temperature, found in high-fat dairy products, fatty meats, lard, palm oil, and coconut oil. Excess consumption may raise blood cholesterol and increase heart disease risk.
Sciatic Nerve:
The major nerve serving the legs, formed from multiple lumbar nerve roots, sending signals to control leg muscles and provide sensations.
Sciatica:
Inflammation of the sciatic nerve, often causing pain, tingling, or numbness along the buttocks, thigh, and leg.
Scoliosis:
An abnormal lateral curve of the spine.
Sedentary:
A person who engages in little or no leisure-time physical activity.
Serotonin:
A neurotransmitter in the brain that elevates mood and decreases appetite.
Set:
A group of repetitions performed consecutively without rest. For example, performing 10 reps of an exercise before resting constitutes one set.
Slipped Disk:
Another term for a herniated disk, where disk material pushes through its outer lining.
Spina Bifida:
A congenital spinal defect in which the arches of the lower lumbar spine fail to form, leaving the spinal cord unprotected.
Spinal Canal:
The central opening in the spine through which the spinal cord runs.
Spinal Cord:
The root section of the central nervous system extending from the brain down the spinal column, branching into nerves.
Spinal Column:
The spine; the series of vertebrae protecting the spinal cord.
Spinal Fracture:
A break in one or more vertebrae.
Spinal Fusion:
A surgical procedure in which discs and cartilage are removed between vertebrae, and bone grafts are inserted to join the bones together, stabilizing the spine.
Spinal Stenosis:
A narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the spinal cord and/or nerve roots, affecting nerve impulses to muscles.
Spondyloarthropathy:
A group of disorders causing inflammatory arthritis of the spine.
Spondylitis:
Inflammation of the spine, often caused by infection.
Spondylolisthesis:
A spinal condition in which a vertebra slips forward over the one below, often causing back pain.
Starvation Metabolism:
A reduction in basal energy expenditure due to chronic underfeeding, slowing calorie burning and increasing fat storage.
Stenosis:
The narrowing of a portion of the spinal canal, often due to bony overgrowth.
Strength Training:
Exercise designed to tone muscles, reduce fat, and strengthen bones, reducing fracture risk as bones age.
Subluxation:
A misalignment of spinal bones that can place pressure on nerves, causing pain, weakness, and other systemic effects.
Tendon:
White fibrous bands of tissue that attach muscles to bones.
Tennis Elbow:
Also called lateral epicondylitis, pain on the outside of the elbow caused by overuse of wrist extensor muscles, resulting in tendon inflammation.
Therapeutic Massage:
Massage focused on manipulating soft tissues to reduce muscle spasms, relieve pain, and improve movement.
Thoracic Spine:
The twelve vertebrae located between the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) spine.
Thyroid Hormone:
Hormones released by the thyroid gland that stimulate metabolism and regulate various biochemical processes in the body.
Tolerance:
A reduced effect of a drug over time, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect.
Tranquilizer:
A drug used to manage and reduce anxiety.
Trigger Point Therapy:
Application of pressure on specific tender points in muscles to relieve pain and tension.
Trigger Points:
Small, tight knots within a muscle that are in spasm and can cause referred pain elsewhere in the body.
Underwater Weighing:
A method to estimate body fat by weighing a person underwater and comparing it to their weight on land, providing an accurate measure of body fat.
Unsaturated Fat:
A fat that is liquid at room temperature, found in vegetable oils, nuts, olives, avocados, and fatty fish. Includes both polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats.
Vertebrae:
The 24 cylindrical segments of bone that make up the vertebral column.
Vertebral Column:
The spine; a flexible structure forming the backbone of the skeleton, extending from the base of the skull to the tailbone.
Vertebral Subluxation Complex:
Another term for subluxation used in the chiropractic profession.
Vigorous-Intensity Physical Activity:
Physical activity involving sustained, rhythmic movements intense enough to elevate heart rate to 70%–85% of maximum, challenging the cardiovascular system.
Waist Circumference:
A measurement of the waist; excess fat around the waist increases the risk of obesity-related health problems.
Weight Control:
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through proper nutrition and regular physical activity.
Weight-Cycle:
Repeatedly losing and gaining weight, also known as “yo-yo” dieting, which can increase body fat and reduce lean muscle over time.
Whiplash:
An injury to the cervical spine caused by rapid hyper-flexion, hyper-extension, or compression, commonly occurring in automobile accidents.
Wrist Circumference:
Measurement of the wrist at its thinnest point, just above the hand, used to estimate overall skeletal size.
X-Ray:
A diagnostic imaging method that uses radiation to create images of the body. It is most useful for identifying fractures, dislocations, abnormal positioning, or other structural problems in bones.
Yoga:
A gentle exercise system consisting of numerous stretching movements, extremely helpful for improving flexibility, strength, and overall wellness.
