Beyond the Adjustment Table: A Holistic Approach
In today’s digital world, we’re constantly surrounded by screens. From smartphones and computers to tablets and televisions, our exposure to blue light has increased significantly.
While blue light in some forms, like sunlight, is important, too much artificial blue light can affect our health and well-being, potentially contributing to discomfort and pain.
At Twin Pine Family Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping you live a healthier, more comfortable life, and understanding the impact of blue light is a part of that.
What is Blue Light?
Blue light is a type of visible light with a short wavelength and high energy. It’s emitted by the sun, but also by many electronic devices. While we need some blue light for alertness and mood regulation, overexposure, especially in the evening, can cause problems.
How Blue Light Can Affect Your Health:
Stimulation:
Scrolling or watching TV might feel like relaxation, it’s actually stimulating your brain, potentially hindering true rest and rejuvenation
Sleep Disruption:
Blue light can interfere with melatonin production, a hormone that regulates sleep. This disruption can make it harder to fall asleep, lead to poor sleep quality, and contribute to daytime fatigue. Lack of quality sleep can worsen pain and make it harder to manage.
Eye Strain and Discomfort:
Prolonged exposure to blue light can strain your eyes, causing dryness, irritation, blurred vision, and headaches. Eye strain can also lead to tension in the neck and shoulders, contributing to discomfort and pain.
Neck and Shoulder Pain:
When we’re focused on screens, we often adopt poor posture. Combined with eye strain, this can lead to muscle tension and pain in the neck, shoulders, and back. This is something we frequently address at Twin Pine Family Chiropractic.
Impact on Overall Wellness:
Chronic sleep problems and discomfort can affect your mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life. Feeling tired and uncomfortable can make it difficult to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Reducing Blue Light Exposure:
Here are some practical steps you can take to reduce your exposure to blue light:
Limit Screen Time Before Bed:
Try to avoid using electronic devices at least one to two hours before you go to sleep. This will give your body time to produce melatonin and prepare for sleep.
Use Blue Light Filters:
Many devices have built-in blue light filters that can reduce the amount of blue light emitted from the screen. You can also purchase blue light blocking glasses.
Adjust Screen Settings:
Lower the brightness of your screens and adjust the color temperature to a warmer setting, especially in the evening.
Take Breaks:
If you spend a lot of time looking at screens, take regular breaks to rest your eyes and move your body. Get up and walk around, move your body, and focus on something in the distance.
Prioritize Sleep Hygiene:
Create a relaxing bedtime routine to promote better sleep. This might include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or meditating.
Chiropractic Care and Your Well-being:
At Twin Pine Family Chiropractic, we understand that many factors contribute to your overall health and well-being. We can help address musculoskeletal issues that may arise from poor posture and eye strain related to excessive screen time. Through gentle adjustments and targeted therapies, we can help reduce pain, improve spinal alignment, and promote relaxation.
If you’re concerned about the effects of blue light on your health or are experiencing neck, shoulder, or back pain, we encourage you to contact Twin Pine Family Chiropractic. We can work with you to develop a personalized plan to support your well-being and help you live a more comfortable, pain-free life.
