The Gentle, Life-Changing Support You Didn’t Know You Needed
If you or a loved one is entering your golden years and starting to feel the effects of aging—stiff joints, nagging back pain, slower movement—you’re not alone. A recent study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted that people over the age of 50 simply are not getting enough activity. But here’s the truth: getting older doesn’t have to mean living with daily discomfort.
At Desert Valley Chiropractic in Phoenix Arizona, we hate to see our senior patients unable to participate in the activities that keep them young. We believe that every stage of life should be lived fully. And yes—chiropractic care is not only safe for seniors, it’s one of the smartest, most effective ways to stay mobile, independent, and thriving.
Common Activities for Older Adults
There are a variety of activities that seniors enjoy and many of them are outdoors. Statistically the most common activities older adults enjoy include walking or jogging, outdoor maintenance such as gardening, playing sports like Pickleball or Golf and of course trying to keep up with their grandchildren.
Tip – In the hot summer months considering walking in the mall. In fact, while I am writing this my daughter is shopping and I am sitting in a coffee shop at the mall. I have a few groups of people walk past me a few times already. Good Job Guys!
Common Complaints—And How We Help
We are chiropractors so yes, many people come to us initially with complaints of neck and low back pain. However, it is often more than just neck and low back pain that keep us on the couch instead of doing what we enjoy. Other areas of pain and joint dysfunction that we treat include:
Foot and Knee pain
Hip pain and restrictions
Shoulder pain and reduced range of motion
Elbow pain like golfers’ elbow or tennis elbow
Hand and wrist pain.
These aren’t just “part of getting older.” They’re signs that the body needs real support—and that’s where we come in.
Why Chiropractic Care Changes Everything
Imagine waking up and being able to move with little or no pain. Imagine walking around the grocery store, playing with your grandkids, or enjoying a round of golf—with less stiffness, less soreness and no hesitation.
That’s the power of Gentle Chiropractic Care at Desert Valley Chiropractic
Here’s what makes it such a powerful solution for seniors:
Less Pain and More Movement – We use a Gentle Chiropractic technique called The Activator Method. There is no twisting popping or cracking. We use a small but fast hand-held instrument that delivers precise adjustments, perfect for delicate joints and sensitive areas.
Reduced inflammation – The activator Method has been shown to reduce inflammation and with less swelling there is less pain and better motion.
Drug-free pain relief – Many of our patients reduce or eliminate their need for pain medications after starting care.
Improved balance and confidence – Aligning the knee’s hips and spine can enhance coordination and reduce fall risk.
Better sleep, more energy, more joy – When your body feels better, you naturally live better. Our patients often report improved mood, mobility, and even digestion after care.
It’s Never Too Late to Feel and Move Better
Whether you’re 60, 70, or 85—it’s not too late to take control of your health. In fact, starting chiropractic care now could be the best investment you make in your future quality of life.
You’ve worked hard for decades. You deserve to enjoy this chapter of life with freedom, movement, and vitality.
Call us today at 602-439-1515 and find out how chiropractic care can help you move better, feel better, and live better—at every age.
Or visit desertvalleychiropractic.com to schedule your first visit.
Curious about Family Chiropractic Care in North Phoenix? At Desert Valley Chiropractic, we love taking care of entire families—and McKenna’s story is a perfect example of why.
In this video, you’ll see Dr. Dave performing a gentle wellness adjustment for McKenna, one of our young patients who’s been under chiropractic care for just over a year. What started as a way to support her overall health has made a real difference in her life. Since beginning care, McKenna has experienced fewer ear infections and better control of her asthma—two common concerns for children.
So how does chiropractic help? By using safe, low-force Activator adjustments, we focus on improving nervous system function and reducing inflammation. For kids like McKenna, that can mean less congestion, better breathing, and a stronger immune system. No twisting or cracking—just precise, effective care tailored to growing bodies.
We believe that, in addition to regular checkups with your pediatrician and a healthy diet, chiropractic care is one of the best things you can do for your child’s health—whether it’s for pain relief, immune support, or overall wellness. Our goal is always to help kids thrive naturally and grow up strong, happy, and resilient.
If you’re curious about chiropractic for your kids—or for your whole family—we’d love to talk. Give us a call at (602) 439-1515 or visit desertvalleychiropractic.com to learn more.
At Desert Valley Chiropractic, we often hear the question: “Does Medicare cover chiropractic care?” The answer is yes—but with limitations. If you’re a Medicare beneficiary seeking natural, drug-free relief from back pain, here’s a helpful breakdown of what’s covered, what’s not, and how we can help you navigate it.
What Medicare Does Cover?
Medicare Part B covers spinal manipulation by a chiropractor for the treatment of spinal complaints such as neck pain, headaches, middle back pain and low back pain. The adjustment must be considered medically necessary, which is to say there has been an acute flare up of pain, and the issue must be documented.
More simply put if you have a new pain or a flare up of an old condition then Medicare can cover your chiropractic care until the concern has become stable and reached a state of maximum improvement.
At our office, we use the Activator Method, a safe, effective, and gentle form of spinal adjustment that falls under Medicare’s definition of spinal manipulation.
What Medicare Doesn’t Cover:
Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover:
Exams
Consultations
X-rays
Therapies (like electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or shockwave)
Maintenance or wellness care
This can be confusing for patients because they expect chiropractic coverage to work like a typical medical visit. But Medicare’s chiropractic benefits are limited only to the adjustment itself—and only when there’s an active problem to treat.
What if I Have a Flare-Up Later in the Year?
A common question we get is: “Does Medicare only cover chiropractic care once a year?” The good news is—no, it doesn’t work that way.
If you experience another flare-up—say, from gardening, lifting something heavy, or even just playing with the grandkids—Medicare can cover another round of care as long as it’s medically necessary. As long as you’re actively being treated for a specific problem (like back pain or spinal misalignment), Medicare may approve care until your condition stabilizes again.
So if the pain comes back, don’t wait—give us a call. We’ll help you get back on track and verify what your Medicare benefits will cover.
What if I Want to Keep Up with Monthly Checkups?
Many patients, especially those who’ve experienced severe pain ask about coming in for monthly checkups to help prevent future flare-ups. We love that proactive mindset!
Ongoing maintenance or wellness chiropractic care can be a great way to stay aligned, reduce inflammation, and keep your body moving and feeling its best. However, it’s important to know that Medicare does not cover wellness or maintenance care—they only cover visits when there is an acute or active issue.
That said, many of our patients choose to continue monthly visits because they feel the difference it makes. These visits are self-pay, and we’re always happy to discuss affordable options in the office if you’d like to stay on track with your care.
Supplemental Insurance (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage Plans
If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it may cover your co-insurance or deductible for covered adjustments. If you’re on a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, coverage can vary widely. Some plans cover more services, and some require pre-authorization—so always check with your provider.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.
At Desert Valley Chiropractic, we know insurance can be confusing. We’re happy to verify your Medicare benefits and help you understand your options. Call us at 602-439-1515 or visit desertvalleychiropractic.com to schedule your consultation.
Move More and Stress Less! At Desert Valley Chiropractic, our mission is simple: help you feel better, move better, and live better. And one of the best ways to do that? Keep moving.The research is clear, regular movement not only supports joint health, balance, and brain function, but it also plays a major role in increasing your lifespan and improving the quality of your years.
But there’s a catch: to stay active long-term, your body needs to be in alignment so it can function. That’s where chiropractic care comes in. The better your joints move, the better you move!
Exercise: It Doesn’t Have to Be Intense to Be Impactful
We often hear patients say they’re intimidated by the idea of “exercise”—but movement doesn’t have to mean running marathons. The best exercise is the one you enjoy and can stick to consistently. Especially during Arizona’s hottest months, consider fun and accessible indoor options like:
Dance or barre classes
Gentle yoga or Pilates (great for flexibility and core strength)
You can go to a studio or check out free videos on you tube.
Mall walking with a friend
Indoor pickleball
Bodyweight workouts at home (yes, squats + Netflix is a thing!)
And don’t forget hydration matters. Summer heat can lead to dehydration, muscle cramps, and joint stiffness. A good rule of thumb? Aim to drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily—and adjust based on heat or activity.
Why Chiropractic Care Is the Foundation for Healthy Movement
When you start to feel pain or restriction in your movement, even if it’s subtle that is the time to consult your chiropractor. Committing and sticking to your care plan is essential for progress, but when those sticky joints start to move freely and you’re not having pain your body will be primed to perform.
We constantly see the benefit of continuing with maintenance care after symptoms fades key to keeping your body performing at its best. Regular chiropractic adjustments:
Reduce inflammation
Improve joint mobility
Restore natural movement patterns
Help your nervous system regulate stress
Support recovery from workouts and everyday life
This means you can keep up with the things you love: your workouts, morning walks, pickleball games, hikes, or chasing after grandkids.
Move more and Stress Less!
Movement and alignment don’t just affect your body, they affect your mind, too. Exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage stress, release endorphins, and boost your mood. In fact in studies have shown exercise to be as effective as medication with mild to moderate anxiety and depression.
Movement and exercise are truly one of the most effective ways to manage stress in our lives. When we exercise our bodies release endorphins, and while endorphins naturally help our mood (the runners high), they also reduce the negative effects of cortisol.
When cortisol—the body’s primary stress hormone—stays elevated for too long, it can take a serious toll on your health, including:
Increased inflammation
Suppressed immune function
Anxiety, mood swings, and brain fog
Disrupted sleep patterns
Weight gain, especially around the midsection
Blood sugar imbalances
Slower healing and recovery from injuries
Bonus! When you combine exercise with regular chiropractic care helps it can help regulate your nervous system, especially the parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) side, which can naturally lower cortisol levels, helping you feel calmer, sleep better, and recover faster.
Other helpful stress-busting habits include:
Breathwork or meditation
Regular sleep (and adjusting the neck to support it!)
Walking outdoors during cooler parts of the day
Taking breaks to stretch during work
At Desert Valley Chiropractic, we believe movement is medicine—and chiropractic keeps the prescription going strong. If you would like our help to keep your joints moving so you can keep thriving, please call us today at 602-439-1515 or schedule online.
Happy October and Welcome to Inflammation Season! As we move into the fall, it is the time when pumpkin spice and holiday goodies take over. From Halloween candy to Thanksgiving pies, Christmas cookies, Hanukkah latkes, and festive cocktails, it’s the season of indulgence!
By the time December rolls around, my office is usually full of patients feeling under the weather, battling colds, flu, fatigue, and flare-ups. When we get to talking, the culprit is often accidental overindulgence during the holidays. But don’t worry—I’m a huge fan of holiday fun, too! The joy, gratitude, and connections are important for your well-being. So, what’s the solution? It all comes down to **awareness** and **balance**.
Sugar and Inflammation
Sugar plays a significant role in promoting inflammation in the body. Consuming excessive amounts of refined sugars can lead to spikes in blood glucose levels, which triggers the release of inflammatory cytokines—molecules that cause inflammation as part of the immune response. Over time, this chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of various health issues such as joint pain, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Reducing sugar intake helps to decrease inflammation, supporting better overall health, reducing pain, and improving energy levels. Opting for whole, unprocessed foods is a key strategy in managing inflammation and maintaining a balanced diet.
Awareness 🌟
Holiday temptations are everywhere, starting with Halloween candy in October, and continuing through New Year’s with rich meals, desserts, and festive drinks. It’s easy to overdo it without realizing it! Here are some tips to help you stay mindful and keep your body balanced:
– Skip the candy bowl 🍬 or hand out treats you don’t particularly like.
– Space out indulgences—don’t let every day become a dessert day.
– Balance treats with nutrient-rich foods, like vegetables and lean proteins 🥦🍗.
– Use holiday spices like cinnamon, which can help regulate blood sugar.
– Support your immune system by taking vitamin D and fish oil.
– Limit alcohol, which depletes important nutrients like magnesium and B vitamins. Be sure to replenish them with healthy foods or supplements.
Balance⚖️
The holidays are all about enjoyment, so don’t deprive yourself! The key is balance:
– Plan your week – enjoy treats, but balance them with nutritious meals.
– Say “no” when needed – It’s okay to decline some activities to rest and avoid burnout. 🎉🚫
– Take downtime to relax and recharge—this will help prevent overindulging and exhaustion.
– Get outside! Enjoy Phoenix’s fall weather with walks or hikes instead of sugary coffee dates. 🚶♂️🌞
– Exercise and chiropractic care can help reduce inflammation and support your body during this busy season.
– Rest! Sleep is crucial for staying healthy and energized.
– Stay hydrated and consider adding a high-quality protein supplement to offset the effects of sugar.
Remember, you can enjoy the best of the season without feeling run down by January. Stay consistent with your health plan, prioritize your well-being, and let’s head into the new year feeling strong and refreshed!
How to Get the Most Out of Maintenance Chiropractic Care
You’ve made great strides in your health, and now it’s time to protect that investment with regular chiropractic maintenance care. At Desert Valley Chiropractic in Moon Valley, we believe that maintenance care is crucial for long-term wellness, helping you move better, feel better, and enjoy life to the fullest.
Here are a few tips to make the most out of your chiropractic maintenance care:
1. Don’t Skip Visits
Consistency is key! Pre-scheduling your maintenance care appointments ensures you stay on track. Regular chiropractic adjustments keep your body aligned and help prevent potential setbacks. Set reminders and prioritize your health to maintain the benefits you’ve worked hard to achieve.
2. Move Every Day
Incorporating daily movement into your routine is essential for keeping your body in top condition between visits. A simple 30-minute walk can work wonders in keeping your muscles and joints flexible while supporting spinal health. Daily movement is a great complement to your adjustments and helps you stay active and mobile.
Small flare-ups or inflammations may happen occasionally, but applying ice can soothe these areas and keep you feeling great. Ice helps reduce swelling and inflammation, making it a simple, effective tool to have on hand. For more tips on when to use ice or heat, check out our helpful guide.
5. Incorporate At-Home Exercises
Staying proactive with nerve flossing and core exercises can make a big difference in maintaining the results of your chiropractic care. These exercises help support your spine and nervous system, prolonging the benefits of your adjustments. Adding just a few minutes of these exercises into your daily routine can boost your overall wellness.
6. Address Flare-Ups Quickly
If you feel any pain or discomfort lasting 24-48 hours between visits, don’t hesitate to call us for an appointment. We recommend catching flare-ups early to get you back on track with your maintenance care plan.
Why Maintenance Care Matters
Regular chiropractic maintenance is the smartest choice for keeping your spine healthy and your body functioning at its best. Whether you’re dealing with past injuries or aiming for long-term wellness, staying consistent with care will help you continue to live pain-free.
