I have always been an exerciser and active person. About 10 years ago, my yoga teacher remarked that my body was uneven; my left shoulder was significantly higher than my right. Around that same time, I began having extreme pain and stiffness in my left shoulder and neck. I thought maybe it was just tension but soon the pain became so unbearable that I knew it was more than that and that I had to find a solution. I am 51 years old now and felt like I was not willing to live the rest of my life with this. So over the years, I have tried many things. Some things gave me some temporary relief and some none at all. I have changed my pillows, stopped chewing gum, changed to a ball chair at work, lowered my desk, raised my desk, tried sleeping on my back. None of this solved my problems.

I began personal training about 5 years ago and we have been focusing on strengthening my weak muscle groups. I have gone for regular massages, then went on to sports specific massages with a focus on my neck and shoulder. I have tried pilates, yoga, and stretching classes. I have a plethora of equipment at home: a foam roller, a thera-cane, bolsters, balls, heat pads, ice packs, a massage chair, emu oil, noni lotion and capsaicin crème.

By October of 2010, the pain was so bad, that I had trouble turning my head while driving. The pain had also begun to move into my forearm, elbow and hips/hamstrings.

My trainer told me that he could not work with me any longer because he was afraid that I would really injure myself. He suggested that I go to a chiropractor.

When I went to Dr. Laird’s website, I knew that I had found the right doctor. Her holistic and natural approach to health immediately appealed to me. I had never been to a chiropractor and honestly, had only heard horror stories but after my first visit, I was sold! The pain in my hips and legs was gone after the first adjustment. For the first time in 10 years, I found pain relief for my shoulder and neck. After 3 months of weekly adjustments, my body has totally been transformed. My shoulders are almost even and the pain in my shoulder is almost completely gone.

One of the many things that continue to impress me about Dr. Laird is that she truly wants me to be healthy and keep my active lifestyle. I was concerned that she would tell me to stop my exercise program but she actually did just the opposite. I also have a strong sense that she truly cares about me and my well being and not just my pocketbook. I am now an avid advocate for Dr. Laird and strongly recommend her to all of my friends!!!

Debra Atwood