The chair is one of the human advances with terrible side-effects. Too much sitting in a chair gives you back pain, leads to bone and muscle loss, makes your joints stiff,...
Posture & Body Awareness
A selection of Dr. Lavine’s articles on posture & body awareness…
Movement is life itself. It doesn’t get any more basic than that.
Most deliciously, human movement has an element that simple motion – a flag flapping in the breeze for instance – doesn’t have.
Human movement involves your brain. The brain creating movement, monitoring it, and appreciating its results.
That’s what truly makes movement central to life and health.
An appreciation of the creative power of the nervous system (the brain) to shape our movement experience, express our essence, and define the way we interact with the world – that’s been central to my practice since I opened my office in 1981.
It’s not just “exercise.” Most important is engagement: body awareness, improving postural support, and appreciating both the functional and expressive ranges available to these bodies of ours.
Here’s a selection of articles I’ve written on these topics:
The most common postural flaw – how to fix it!
Here's a brief (3 minute) video that covers the most common postural flaw I see in my practice. And how to fix it!.
Stretching your IT Band doesn’t help much – but here’s an alternative
To relieve stress on the IT Band you have to learn to shift your weight properly.
How to meditate
A simple meditation practice.
I asked one of the world’s experts on the chair
Professor Galen Cranz, authority on chairs and the seated position, offers recommendations on effective and comfortable work postures.
Today’s health tip
Simply prolonging the exhale phase of breath has many health benefits similar to the benefits of mindfulness meditation.
We Came to Dance
Click this link for an inspiring video: We Came to Dance
Lead By Example
The non-verbal component of communication conveys important social and emotional cues.
A Tribute to Irmgard Bartenieff
Irmgard Bartenieff had a huge influence on my work and that of many others.
Proven Link: tension headaches and weak neck muscles
Researchers have proven the link between weak neck muscles and headache. Learn a simple exercise that will help strengthen this key area.
Which Exercise Builds the Most Muscle Mass the Quickest?
The benefits of the squat exercise for developing muscle mass and practicing alignment control.
Two Things I Learned from My Patient Liz
My experience with Liz reinforced for me the risk of anesthesia, and also reminded me that the brain serves the body, not the other way around.
Breathing Exercises for Natural Anxiety Relief, Pain Control and More
Three simple breathing exercises to help you relax and gain mental clarity.
Dr. Lavine Interviewed by Virginia Reed for Progressive Radio Network
A radio interview of Dr. Ronald Lavine by Virginia Reed on Progressive Radio Network.
Dynamic control of movement is key to low back pain
Scientists now can test subtle details of trunk postural control and compare the movement skill of those with back pain and those without.
Altered Gait and Early Cognitive Impairment Symptoms
Emerging research shows that changes in walking patterns can be early warning signs of dementia. But can someone with altered gait be retrained to walk with ease, elegance and balance, thus preventing cognitive decline?
Ultra Yoga and Exercises for Pelvic Floor Muscles
Interview with Marisa Sullivan, expert in using yoga for pelvic floor issues.
The Art of Teaching Dance – Part 2
Part Two of an interview with Laura Donnelly, Alexander Teacher and Assistant Professor of Dance at Kansas State University.
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“Dr. Lavine’s treatment addresses several conditions that I developed early: fibromyalgia, chronic back pain, knee pain, and foot problems. You’d think I was a walking disaster! But at 61 I lead an active life and manage quite well. I don’t need pain medicines and my overall health is better. I can work long days reading, writing, teaching, and making jewelry– all of which I love.”
“I have been going to Ron Lavine for a number of years. His neurotactile therapy works wonders for the aches and pains which I have. I think it feels better than a massage. I highly recommend him.”
“I have known Ron for over 20 years. I have had to use his services from time to time because of either back problems, or shoulder and neck issues. Every time, Ron solved my problems through efficient treatments.”
About Dr Lavine
FAQ
Is chiropractic care safe?
Yes.
Is chiropractic care gentle?
Dr. Lavine uses a range of treatment methods, some of which are extremely gentle. Part of his experience lies in choosing the right style of treatment to get you system functioning better as quickly as possible.
Are there negative side-effects?
The most common side effects of chiropractic care are positive ones – feeling healthier and more robust. Another common side effect is a temporary increase in soreness. This typically resolves within a day or two. More significant side effects – worsening your underlying condition or creating a problem you didn’t already have – are exceedingly rare.
How long will Dr. Lavine spend with me?
There’s no set length for an appointment. But Dr. Lavine never typically schedules more than two patient visits per hour, and leaves double time for a consultation with a new patient.
Will Dr. Lavine treat me on the first visit?
Most often, yes.
Will Dr. Lavine crack my back?
Maybe. One method that Dr. Lavine uses is manipulation of the joints of the spine. This sometimes results in a popping noise as the spinal joints regain their normal mobility pattern. It’s a safe and painless procedure. Nonetheless, it’s not suitable in all cases and it’s never suitable for someone who doesn’t feel comfortable with that method of treatment.
Will I need to come for a series of treatments?
Most often, yes. The goal of the initial visit is to begin to determine what’s causing your problem and begin to find a way to fix it. Sometimes that means that you’ll respond strongly and immediately to the initial treatment and you’ll soon be heading back toward health. But far more often, a series of visits is needed to fully understand all of the ways your body needs help and allow your system a chance to heal.
I’ve heard that people keep coming to their chiropractor for months or even years. Is that true?
Most patients will begin to respond positively within a handful of treatments. Once they’ve achieved their initial goals, some patients choose to continue with periodic tune-up visits to alleviate stress as it builds up and keep on top of their game. That’s an individual choice.
Does Dr. Lavine take my insurance?
Dr. Lavine is not an in-network provider with any insurance network. Insurance networks are designed for the provision of generic chiropractic treatment, not the personalized, diversified treatment that Dr Lavine offers. If you have an insurance plan that covers out-of-network doctors, Dr. Lavine may be able to accept your case on an assigned-benefits basis. Call to find out more.
What about Medicare coverage?
If you have traditional Medicare (not a Medicare Advatage plan) you’ll pay doctor Lavine’s fees and he will submit a Medicare insurance claim on your behalf. You’ll get partial reimbursement based on the Medicare chiropractic fee schedule. Call for more information.
Is Dr. Lavine’s treatment suitable for older people?
Yes
Is Dr. Lavine’s treatment suitable for children?
Yes
What about X-rays? Will I need X-rays or MRI’s?
There are occasional situations in which imagining tests such as Xrays or MRIs would be useful in determining your diagnosis. But this is infrequent.
What specific methods does Dr. Lavine use?
Dr. Lavine uses a variety of manual therapy techniques designed to help your body reorganize itself to alleviate pain and allow for an optimal pattern of body movement. Broadly, there are three components of treatment: mobilization and manipulation of the joints, connective tissue treatment, and therapeutic movement. Within each of these three broad categories there are innumerable specific types of treatment that Dr. Lavine is skilled in. Every patient is different and every treatment plan is unique.
Will Dr. Lavine work with my regular medical doctor? Orthopedist? Physical therapist?
Of course. With your permission, he’ll send a complete report outlining his examination findings and treatment plan to any of your other physicians or therapists.
Will Dr. Lavine show me what to do to prevent my problem from coming back?
Yes. Any treatment plan also includes self-care tips, therapeutic exercises to do at home, and useful lifestyle modifications to deal with ongoing stressors.