A Day in the Life of a Working Mom

Sandy Smith woke up to the annoying and familiar sound of the alarm clock. It was another day and the beginning of another hectic week. She rolled from her stomach onto her back and unburied herself from beneath the old, down-filled, pillows. Sandy reached over and pressed the snooze button in an attempt to steal five more minutes of peace. As Sandy stretched, she felt the pain, a stiff ache that had unfortunately loomed over her body every morning for quite some time.

Once out of bed, Sandy leaned over and tried to concentrate on making the perfect hospital corners. She slightly lifted the large, squishy mattress, and tucked the corners just right, trying to ignore her stiff muscles and joints. She shuffled into the bathroom and brought her toothbrush to her mouth. Hunched over the sink, trying to avoid the tired reflection staring back at her, Sandy brushed her teeth. Her motions were slow this morning, and she had no time to concern herself with a little pain.

"Here they come," Sandy thought to herself as she heard the pitter-patter of four little feet running down the hallway. The kids were awake, eager to begin the day. Sandy threw on a skirt and sweater, pulling her brown high heels out from the back of the closet.

"Ow," Sandy exclaimed. The pain in her back sent a sharp signal to her brain that the day was not going to run smoothly. She clomped down the hall to retrieve the hairbrush stuck in her daughter's long hair, and her feet found Barbie. Her heels had little traction and she grabbed the banister for support.

Realizing she was late, Sandy bent over to scoop up her 2-year-old. Her back seemed to yell at her, and she suddenly realized her toddler was becoming heavier every day.

After cereal and burnt toast, Sandy marched her girls to the bus stop and waved good-bye as she turned toward her car, angry with herself for sleeping those five extra minutes. She would have to face Monday morning gridlock and suddenly felt the beginning of a headache that would stay with her all day.

"I love Mondays," Sandy said to herself as she sat in traffic. She reached for her cell phone, cradling it between her neck and head. Her conference call would need to be conducted in the car, and her headache only worsened.

Thirty minutes later, Sandy pulled into her parking place. She sprang from her car, heaved her over-stuffed leather bag over her shoulder, and scurried through the office doors.

Monday Madness

Sandy's Monday morning was filled with telephone calls and last minute deadlines. She tried to type and talk at the same time, constantly crossing and re-crossing the left leg over the right. She began breathing erratically when she realized her deadline would not be met. The lunch hour was approaching, and it suddenly occurred to Sandy that she had not taken a break all morning. Her computer screen appeared blurry and her wrists were stiff.

The remainder of Sandy's day was much of the same, and she could not wait to take off her shoes. After skipping lunch and sitting through meetings, Sandy drug herself to her car, threw her bag in the back seat and started the stressful trek home. That night, after the kids devoured dinner, Sandy longed for a long hot shower. The girls were in the bathtub, and she winced as she reached over to carefully lift her toddler onto the floor. By this time, her neck and joints screamed in pain and Sandy wanted nothing more than to climb into bed.

It was eleven at night and Sandy was finally lying down. Her bed and pillows did not seem comfortable, and she felt for only an instant that her neck needed a little more support. She drifted off to sleep out of sheer exhaustion.

A New Day

Does Sandy remind you of anyone? The more stressful our lives become, the less we focus on the "moment." When we aren't conscious of how we sleep, breathe, stand, lift, bend or sit, our bodies can take a beating that results in lingering pain. We often avoid the early signs of discomfort we feel in our back, shoulders or neck until we are unable to ignore the pain. By reading the tips below, you can learn to make even the busiest days pain free.

  • When you wake in the morning, start the day with a couple of stretches. Stand up and stretch your arms above your head. Do the "hug your best friend." Wrap your arms around your body, and turn as far as you can to the left, then to the right.
  • When performing everyday routines such as brushing your teeth, remember your posture. Do not hunch over the sink; stand up straight.
  • Don't bend from the waist when you lift a child. Squat with your back straight. Keep the child close to you and use your arms and legs to lift.
  • Hold the telephone with your hand or use the speakerphone. Cradling the phone between your head and shoulder can lock up the spinal joints in the neck and upper back, eventually causing pain.
  • While in the office, make sure your chair fits correctly. There should be two inches between the front edge of your seat and the back of your knees. The chair should tilt back so you are able to rest while reading from a computer screen.
  • Many people suffer from tension headaches. Adequate lighting and document holders by your computer can help reduce the risk of a headache. Materials placed on a desk cause you to constantly raise and lower your neck while you're typing at your keyboard.
  • Do not wear high heels. The weight of the foot is not evenly distributed, which not only causes sore feet, but also added spinal stress.
  • Do not carry a heavy bag with its strap over your shoulder, unless you place the strap over your head on the side opposite the bag. Wearing a shoulder strap over one shoulder unevenly places the weight of the bag on one side of the body, potentially causing shoulder and back pain. Or better yet, carry a bag with a handle rather than a strap.
  • Do not consistently cross the same knee over the other. This habit can eventually cause misalignment of the spine.
  • Even if you remain sitting for the majority of your workday, you deserve a break. Get up from your desk and move around, stretching arms and legs as much as possible to avoid postural and spinal stress. Try to practice deep and even breathing to keep yourself calm and keep adequate oxygen flowing through your system.
  • Bath time can be fun for the kids but stressful on any parent. Make certain to bend from the waist and not the back when bathing your children. Use your legs when you lift your child.
  • It is important to get a good night's rest. Choose a comfortable mattress and pillow that adequately support the weight of your head and body.

Testimonials

Please note that patients' conditions vary and therefore, results vary.

  • I had a herniated disc in my lower back. The pain was a 10. After 3 visits I could sleep, walk, and move with half the pain gone. After 1 month I was free of the pain and doing light work again.

    - Tom J., Soquel, Contractor
  • I visit Dr. Falkenroth regularly for pains, aches and for good health. I travel frequently, and he puts me back together after long plane rides. He’s a good guy, and I trust him to adjust my back, neck, shoulders and anything else that’s out of whack. I’ve stopped in with no notice and he’s accommodated me, always friendly and easy to work with.

    ...
    - Marty F., Scotts Valley Show More
  • I first went to Dr. Falkenroth several years ago for a Sciatica issue I was having (extremely painful). After seeing one chiropractor with little to no results, I found Dr. Falkenroth in the phone book. I made my appointment with him, and immediately felt comfortable when I met him and his wife Estrella. After one visit I was feeling relief already, and with the 2nd appointment I was pain free…

    ...
    - Phil J., Aptos, Electrical Distribution Show More
  • A year ago, I was riddled with back pain. I thought for sure my back would return once I retired and was able to give it a good rest… wrong. I found myself in tears every night praying for my life back. After costly doctor appointments, painkillers and a chiropractor that was not a match for me, I was referred to Dr. Falkenroth. Inside of a year, I am happy to report that I’m on an as needed”basis… I am pretty much pain free. I can now walk again, ride my bike, swim and take road trips!

    ...
    - Dianne F., Aptos, Retired Show More
  • I was introduced to Dr. Falkenroth thru a co-worker. I have a history of back issues and was looking for a good chiropractor in the area. I can state absolutely that Dr. Falkenroth has helped me with not only back health, but better overall health and wellbeing. He has an excellent gentle manner and is a good listener. I have recommended him to many friends and associates.

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    - Mike W., Brookdale, Business Manager Show More
  • Ah, let me count the ways Dr. Falkenroth has improved the quality of my life!… I am pain free (upper neck, shoulders, lower back)… Dr. Falkenroth has been consistent, patient, and encouraging. He allows you to find your path to a pain free life! I am extremely grateful. I love the monthly newsletter and the office staff. Totally professional.

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    - Faye M., Boulder Creek Show More
  • When I first met Dr. Falkenroth I was in constant pain, very intense pain. I took so many painkillers it scared me and my doctors. I had been to so many doctors looking for any kind of help. My life had been affected so much in so many ways and it had been affecting my family’s life in ways I have never even thought of. I was desperate for help. I hated being alive and suicide was not an option. Dr. Falkenroth was and is my salvation to at last living again in a somewhat normal life. He too

    ...
    - Deborah R., Scotts Valley Show More
  • … I was referred to Dr. Falkenroth by 2 of my Registered Nurse clients. I was suffering from low back pain with intermittent numbness from low back down through my knee. Having also been a Registered Nurse for 28 years I knew it was probably from L4. He gave a free thorough consultation and we both agreed to the problem stemming from L4. Since that time he has solved my shoulder, back and hip issues. I have so much confidence in his abilities. I have referred many of my own clients to him much

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    - Georgia C., Aptos, Massage Therapist Show More
  • … Dr. Falkenroth was my lifesaver. I recommend him to everyone I know. I work long hours as a caregiver and love to do yard work in my spare time. After I do yard work, my body is in pain. But not even pain can stop me from doing yard work, because I know Dr. Falkenroth will be there to fix me back up. I couldn’t imagine my life without him. This is something you will have to come down here and try for yourself.

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    - Ginger R., Watsonville, Caregiver Show More
  • Fifteen years ago, my lower back was a huge problem. I would lock up or have spasms on a “daily basis. Being a fitness trainer, this was not good. I turned to Dr. Falkenroth for help. After a few weeks of treatments I began to feel better… for the past 15 years my back has not caused any problems and I have never been more active.

    ...
    - Michael B., Santa Cruz, Personal Trainer Show More
  • I’ve gone to chiropractors my whole life. It got to a point that my condition was getting so bad that chiropractor manipulations only made my condition worse. I went online to find information on sciatic relief and found Dr. Falkenroth. I thought: I’ll try one more chiropractor. He was amazing! He was gentle and made me feel better instead of worse. He always spends a lot of time with me and I don’t feel rushed. He always gives me exercises when I ask. He knows every exercise for every par

    ...
    - Rami H., Santa Cruz, Retired Show More
  • … I always appreciate being able to get an appointment the same day I have pain and then feeling so much better when I leave the office. I am afraid of manual adjustments so him using the Pro-Adjuster is a scare-free way of getting adjusted.

    - Cecilia K., Aptos, Program Manager
  • … I have gone to other chiropractors before and have never been helped at all. Now I feel a relief of joint pain with Dr. Falkenroth and maintain this recovery with monthly appointments. I have been relieved with this method of care. It is much better than the traditional chiro adjustments that I was previously used to.

    ...
    - Nanette V., Boulder Creed, Retired Show More
  • … Dr. Falkenroth is always friendly, knowledgeable and professional. I look forward to my appointments, not only for the chiropractic care, but because he and his staff are always so welcoming, great conversationalists and care about the whole picture.

    - Joanne B., Capitola, Administrator
  • … I’ve always been impressed with the level of care and understanding Dr. Falkenroth brings to each visit. The computerized adjustments keep me relaxed, and are very effective. Dr. Falkenroth keeps me upright and mobile…

    - Michael M., Santa Cruz, Musician
  • I was getting to the point that I was having trouble getting out of bed in the morning. As a UPS Driver that is not a good thing for me. So my wife made me an appointment with Dr. Falkenroth. It took several visits before I started feeling better. That was three years ago. No I come in once a month for maintenance only and I am able to work without low back pain.

    ...
    - Scott S., Watsonville, UPS Driver Show More
  • I came with severe pain, received painless treatment and immediate results. I have come back several times after being away for weeks or months and again received immediate relief.

    - Katera R., Aptos
  • The first time I came to see Dr. Falkenroth, my back was out, I was in pain, and I could not stand up straight. Twelve hours after my first treatment my situation was dramatically improved. The treatments were not uncomfortable and I have always found Dr. Falkenroth to be kind and helpful.

    - Laura L., Aromas
  • Having researched “wellness” thoroughly, I can speak very clearly of the benefit my family and I receive via this clinic. As a family, we rarely visit the MD (except for the occasional stitches or poison oak treatment), and have enjoyed the freedom of movement even as we get older. I recommend this clinic all of the time with satisfactory results from all.

    ...
    - Greg K., Aptos Show More
  • After seeing a massage therapist several times for a sore neck, she explained that she couldn’t get to the core issue. She said that Dr. Falkenroth has some advanced techniques that could help me out. I was very skeptical at first, but after 3-4 weeks, the pain has subsided and the visits are less and less frequent.

    ...
    - Ken P., Capitola Show More
  • My experience in using the decompression therapy for the past 6 weeks has been good. At first it was hard to get used to, but I had no choice. Doing the therapy was great. I would recommend in the future to anybody I know that has back problems to come to Dr. Falkenroth for treatment. They won’t be disappointed.

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    - Alfonso P., Watsonville Show More
  • I was skeptical about the Pro-Adjuster because I had never heard of it before. However, I have enjoyed the painless treatments and like the fact that I can visually track progress after each session. Dr. Falkenroth has been fantastic. He is friendly and very professional.

    - Leona C., Santa Cruz
  • I was having back pain for several weeks. After a few days of sweating from pain I called Dr. Falkenroth and he was able to see me within a few hours. I was able to sleep after that night. Over the next few visits my back and neck pain were all but gone. I was skeptical of his approach with the new technology but am now sold on his procedures.

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    - Jerry H., Santa Cruz Show More
  • I have had a lot of pain in my lower back and neck. Dr. Falkenroth has worked wonders for me over the last couple of months. I recommend people that have back problems to him all the time. I went to see about five other doctors before finding Dr. Falkenroth, all with some results, but not with the results that Dr. Falkenroth has given me. I am very happy that I found him when I did. He’s very very good at what he does. He’s also a person who really cares about his patients. I am able to do s

    ...
    - Mark W., Aptos Show More
  • I was referred by a co-worker. I have been suffering from low back pain due to an injury sustained at home, making it difficult for me to move without pain. Coming here to Dr. Falkenroth was a breath of fresh air! My first visit was great. I left here with less pain in my back, but still not sure about how his adjustments were going to help. About 4-6 weeks into the adjustments/treatments I noticed a very significant difference in my pain level. 5-9/10 down to 0-1/10 pain level. It is so nice to

    ...
    - Martel D., Aptos Show More
  • I met Dr. Falkenroth 4 years ago in Aptos. Dr. Falkenroth has been treating me and greatly helping me in my strenuous training. I have referred over the years my students and all of them have had a great experience.

    - Brice C., Aptos
  • At first I was skeptical about the effectiveness of the adjusting machine he uses, but I am now a huge fan. It instantly shows areas of my spine that are slightly out of whack that I might otherwise have simply written off as stress or tension. When something is out of whack, Dr. Falkenroth can pinpoint the area and treat it accordingly. I no longer suffer from chronic headaches and my back has never been stronger.

    ...
    - Brooklyn T., Santa Cruz Show More
  • Service is courteous, friendly, prompt – in a nice clean environment. Back pain was severe at beginning and has subsided substantially.

    - Byron G., Santa Cruz
  • My experience has always been positive. I was referred by a number of colleagues at Cabrillo College. My very first time seeing Dr. Falkenroth was very positive. He started seeing me because I got in a position of a work comp situation. Severe neck & back pain & tingling on the tips of hands & numbing. My condition has really improved… Staff has always been exceptional.

    ...
    - Rose C., Santa Cruz Show More
  • Dr. Falkenroth has helped me with my back & foot pain that has helped me to be more productive at my job. The experience has been excellent…

    - Curt N., Santa Cruz
  • When I started coming to Dr. Falkenroth my back pain was causing me to lose sleep; I was in pain most of the time. I followed the plan set out by Dr. Falkenroth, and I have noticed a huge difference. I’m not consistently in a bad mood anymore from back pain.

    - Kristy T., Santa Cruz
  • My injuries have subsided quite a bit. I don’t pull muscle as much and feel stronger. Overall I have had great results here.

    - Andrew V., Aptos
  • I’ve had problems for years and never dealt with them. After two visits, I could feel myself gradually begin to get healthier. It was good.

    - Jordan F., Santa Cruz
  • Dr. Falkenroth is very knowledgeable & his treatment is effective. Treatment is painless and has helped me very much.

    - Julia D., Aptos
  • First of all I would definitely recommend the clinic to my friends. As for being skeptical, Yes, I was, but then I’ve been going thru this pain for many years. I admire Dr. John’s honesty in explaining every move he makes. I know it has taken many years of abuse to get my body in this condition, but I’m like everyone else – looking for the sure cure like overnight.

    ...
    - Nancy S., Santa Cruz Show More
  • Dr. Falkenroth is wonderful! He is very knowledgeable, very accurate, he takes the time to understand the situation. I am very confident in his abilities. He is very kind and caring. His treatments are very gentle and don’t hurt. I have frequent severe migraines. I have just started treatment with Dr. Falkenroth and feel some real relief in my neck after the treatments.

    ...
    - Judith J., Marina Show More
  • I woke up one morning with a terrible pain that started in the back of my neck and ran all the way down my right arm. Not one to immediately see the doctor, I lived with this intense pain for several months. A friend told me about John, her D.C. and how he had helped her with pain so I made an appointment. He evaluated and treated me on the first visit and the pain soon went away after a few more visits.

    ...
    - Norma P., Soquel Show More
  • Treatments are really good and I love that they’re personalized.

    - Jennifer G., Freedom
  • When I began receiving adjustments from Dr. Falkenroth’s office using the Pro-adjuster, I not only began to feel much better, but there was no discomfort at all.

    - Vickie B., Scotts Valley
  • Dr. Falkenroth has treated my chronic pain as well as a more recent disc injury. The treatment is excellent, gentle and painless. This treatment allows me to function with less pain and has alleviated much of my back pain. I highly recommend this clinic above any other treatment.

    - Laura K., Scotts Valley
  • I came to the office with severe neck and shoulder pain. The treatments were painless and immediately effective. The massage chairs are so relaxing before each adjustment and the water massager after adjustments is wonderful. The office staff is friendly & organized. I look forward to each of my treatments.

    ...
    - Vicki S., Capitola Show More
  • I woke up with intense and aggravating low back pain that kept me from focusing on anything. I called in the morning and they had an opening that afternoon, thankfully. After the Pro-Adjuster, which helped relax my muscles and remind my spine how to be in correct alignment, I appreciated the additional expertise of Dr. John.

    ...
    - Dr. Krista A., D.C., Santa Cruz Show More
  • While massage is good for the person I’m working on, it can sometimes take its toll on my body. Dr. Falkenroth keeps my lower back, shoulders and hands working freely so I can do my best for my clients. For fun I dance, it keeps me fit. Sometimes I overdo it and the massage table helps with that.

    - Courtney B., Santa Cruz
  • Four years ago I was I a car accident where my neck and back were severely knocked out of line. After experiencing a year of pain I decided to come to Dr. Falkenroth. Since the beginning of my therapy my neck and back have become more in line and I am not experiencing any more pain. Dr. Falkenroth has been very accommodating, kind and helpful though my therapy and his great service will keep me coming back for years to come. I believe in Dr. Falkenroth and refer people to him as much as possible

    ...
    - Jeff D., Aptos Show More
  • …If I had put off any longer getting the help I needed I probably wouldn’t be enjoying my life, grandkids, or dog walks at all. I would say give it a try!! It is not invasive like surgery or shots and if it helps, you will be healthier, happier, more content and understand your body better.

    - Sharon E., Aptos
  • Since I began seeing Dr. Falkenroth for chronic (3 1/2 years) lower back pain, the pain has reduced. I am now able to do some of the activities I avoided due to the increase in discomfort the next day. He listens well and targets the right areas for maximum relief. The treatments were never painful and I always felt better after I left the office.

    ...
    - Christopher G., Aptos Show More
  • I am feeling much better since my car accident. I also noticed my neck isn’t cracking and popping like it used to. I am not taking Vicodin anymore since the pain has diminished to a manageable level.

    - Robert M., Aptos
  • Dr. Falkenroth has helped me in so many ways. My shoulder, back and hip were in bad shape due to my job as a hair stylist & salon owner. I got instant relief & have had steady results…

    - Donna P., Aptos
  • I had a bike accident. I felt pain in my back and other parts of my body especially my left foot. This treatment helped me a lot to recover, to walk normal again and to ease the pain that I am suffering. It took me like more than 2 months in my treatment and I hope even after many years will pass everything will be fine to me. Their treatment is remarkable especially the water massage.

    ...
    - Rowena R., Capitola Show More
  • It has been a very great experience to be treated by Dr. Falkenroth. His treatment is gentle, painless and beneficial to my whole body. Even though I haven’t been coming for very long, I’ve found that I feel better, my neck is stronger and has more mobility. In addition, my lower back has less recurring aches & pain. I’ve recommended Dr. Falkenroth to many of my friends already.

    ...
    - Kristin M., Santa Cruz Show More
  • Had consistent headaches from stress in neck which have disappeared. Also was ready to have knee surgery from pain caused by misaligned cartilage which has also lessened considerately.

    - Gigi P., Aptos
  • I was having terrible neck and shoulder pain limiting my being able to turn my head. I now have great flexibility with no pain.

    - Charlene H., Aptos
  • Dr. Falkenroth has made my back 100% better since I’ve been coming to him. I have no lower back problem near as much as I did. I would recommend him to anyone with back problems!!

    - Jim H., Capitola
  • Suffering from Carpal Tunnel is very painful. Through my treatments with Dr. Falkenroth I have a decrease in pain immediately & on an ongoing basis I have increased mobility in my arm and hand. I highly recommend Dr. Falkenroth. The treatments really work and the patient care is exceptional.

    - Laura R., Scotts Valley
  • Since seeing Dr. Falkenroth I have been able to cut down and even exclude allergy medications on a seasonal & year round basis. I also have less migraines eliminating dependence on preventative drugs and emergency medications. I sleep better and have lost weight now that I have more energy to put into my workouts.

    ...
    - Sarah K., Aptos Show More
  • I first came to Dr. Falkenroth for help in recovering from a broken bone in my foot. The result of the treatments was that not only did my foot heal quickly, but both my feet became more flexible than they had been in years. I was responding so well that I had my husband begin treatments for low back pain. Then my teenage daughter, who is a dancer, tore a muscle in her groin. Dr. Falkenroth helped her to get back to performing very quickly. I certainly recommend him for his painless and effectiv

    ...
    - Karen M., Watsonville Show More
  • I get adjustments by Dr. Falkenroth when my neck and back feel out of alignment or when I have muscle spasms. He can quickly and gently get things back into place. He is kind, efficient, gentle and funny. I love the massage chair and the Aquamassage – and the nature videos of beaches.

    - Carol W., Aptos
  • I hurt my lower back months ago. My neighbor recommended Dr. Falkenroth. The treatment is great. Pain is gone. I’m back to normal.

    - Joseph M., Capitola
  • Noticed a big improvement with my neck and back pain after about 3-4 treatments. I like the gentle adjustments – I would highly recommend it.

    - Diane S., Santa Cruz
  • I was rear ended in a car accident and was sent to a general practitioner and was given drugs to mask my pain. But I knew I wasn’t healing. Dr. Falkenroth’s approach was new to me. I decided to give this method a try and I have been very impressed. I feel like my body is healing properly and my pain has decreased significantly.

    ...
    - Robert A., Los Gatos Show More
  • My experience with Dr. Falkenroth and staff has been very positive from the beginning. His explanation of the treatment was easy to understand and the results have been very good…

    - Dale O., Soquel
  • I came with a pinched nerve in my neck. I got instant pain relief within three visits. I felt great with more energy no headaches and with full mobility of my neck.

    - Dennis J., Felton
  • It took about 5 weeks but definitely I could tell the difference. Treatments did not hurt. I would definitely recommend him to others.

    - Mark H., Santa Cruz

Office Hours

Monday

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

Monday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
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