3Waves Clinic

✨ Don’t forget to love yourself,
and honor the body that carries you through the holidays. ✨

Treat yourself to quality bodywork
with Chiropractic Care
and a regenerative modality called Shockwave therapy.

When your body feels good,
your spirit follows. 💫

🔥 The Power Duo: Chiropractic + Shockwave Therapy 🔥
By Dr. M. Ryan Saldivar, DC | 3 Waves Clinic, Berkeley

Chronic pain often lingers long after an injury—not because the body didn’t try to heal, but because scar tissue formed in a way that shortens, tightens, and locks in dysfunctional movement patterns.

This is where Shockwave Therapy + Chiropractic work together beautifully.

💥 Shockwave Therapy breaks up dense scar tissue, restores blood flow, lowers inflammation, and stimulates collagen production to accelerate healing in stubborn muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

🌊 Chiropractic care then restores alignment to the spine—the command center of your nervous system—so those healing signals can actually reach the tissues without interference.

When used together, these therapies:
✅ Unwind deep myofascial adhesions
✅ Improve oxygen and nutrient absorption in muscles
✅ Reboot your nervous system
✅ Reduce pain and stiffness
✅ Support long-term mobility and performance

Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury, surgery, or long-term compensation patterns, this integrative approach is a game-changer.

Your spine is central. Your fascia is the network. Let’s get both aligned and activated so you can live pain-free and perform at your highest level.

—

📍 Berkeley, CA | 3 Waves Clinic
🔗 Book with Dr. M. Ryan Saldivar today

💍 Finally, Massage & Chiropractic Got Married!

At 3 Waves Clinic, we believe the best healing happens when relaxation meets alignment.

Massage is the soothing yin. Chiropractic is the structural yang. Together, they create a deeply restorative experience that’s blissful, powerful, and effective.

This isn’t your typical snap-and-go adjustment.
We start by calming your nervous system with focused bodywork, then apply precise chiropractic care—so your body can receive the work with less resistance and more ease.

✅ Less tension
✅ Better alignment
✅ Longer-lasting results
✅ A nervous system that feels supported—not shocked

Chiropractic should never be scary. It should be healing, harmonizing, and life-expanding.

If you’re ready to feel better, move better, and live longer with a higher quality of life, let us show you what happens when Massage & Chiropractic say “I do.” 💫

—

🔗 Book your blissful adjustment now
📍3 Waves Clinic | Berkeley

Did you know that two common postural distortions—Upper Crossed Syndrome and Lower Crossed Syndrome—were first described by Czech neurologist Dr. Vladimir Janda? These imbalances often develop from too much sitting and not enough balanced movement, and over time, they can accelerate joint degeneration and disc wear in the spine, especially as we age.

Upper Crossed Syndrome creates a forward head, rounded shoulders, and tight chest, while Lower Crossed Syndrome leads to weak glutes and abs, tight hip flexors, and an exaggerated low back curve. To combat these patterns, it’s crucial to strengthen weak muscles and stretch overactive ones. Focus on exercises like bench press to support the chest (in balance), deadlifts and rows to build postural back strength, and squats, yoga bridges, and lunges to activate glutes, hamstrings, and open the hips. Integrating yoga to improve mobility and balance can transform posture, prevent pain, and slow spinal aging.

💥 Upgrade Your Oatmeal Game with Bone Broth + Protein! 💪🍲
Oatmeal doesn’t have to be sweet to be satisfying. Our savory Bone Broth Protein Oatmeal is loaded with collagen, protein, and anti-inflammatory ingredients to support joint health, muscle recovery, and gut healing. Top it with a soft-boiled egg or avocado and you’ve got a powerhouse breakfast that keeps you full and fueled.
➡️ Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout recovery, or just leveling up your nutrition game!

🧠 Stronger. Healthier. Tastier.
📲 Want the recipe? DM us or check the link in our bio!

The 3 Waves of Spine and Joint Therapy
By Dr. Ryan Saldivar, DC

At our clinic, we’ve developed a powerful approach to healing and performance called The 3 Waves of Spine and Joint Therapy, rooted in clinical evidence and years of experience. The first wave is massage therapy, specifically using advanced techniques such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and deep tissue massage.

These methods allow us to release chronic muscle tension, improve fascial mobility, and decompress the soft tissues that surround joints. By unlocking muscle patterns and reducing neurological guarding, we create a foundation where deeper therapeutic work becomes not only possible but profoundly more effective.

The second wave is chiropractic care, which focuses on restoring motion and alignment to the spine and joints through precise, neurologically-based adjustments. Once soft tissues are relaxed through massage, chiropractic adjustments can be delivered more gently and effectively—helping to restore normal joint biomechanics, reduce nerve interference, and improve overall mobility. This synergistic approach not only provides immediate relief but also improves the nervous system’s ability to regulate pain, posture, and movement, enhancing long-term functional health.

Finally, the third wave is shockwave therapy, a cutting-edge modality that stimulates tissue regeneration and accelerates healing at the cellular level. By delivering focused acoustic energy to damaged tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules, shockwave therapy helps break up scar tissue, stimulate blood flow, and activate natural repair mechanisms. When combined with soft tissue release and spinal adjustments, it creates an optimal healing environment—addressing inflammation, dysfunction, and structural misalignment in a single, integrated session. This powerful trifecta allows us to treat everything from spinal disc issues to stubborn tendinopathies with a level of precision and effectiveness that radically improves our patients' quality of life.

Recent research from the University of Queensland, published in the *Journal of Physiology*, reveals that cold water immersion (CWI) immediately after resistance training can hinder muscle growth. In this study, participants who engaged in 12 weeks of strength training and followed each session with a 10-minute cold plunge at 10°C experienced significantly less muscle hypertrophy compared to those who used active recovery methods. The researchers found that CWI reduced anabolic signaling pathways, such as mTOR, and decreased satellite cell activity, both crucial for muscle repair and growth.

The physiological mechanism behind this involves the constriction of blood vessels due to cold exposure, which limits blood flow to muscles. This reduced circulation impairs the delivery of essential nutrients and hormones necessary for muscle protein synthesis. Therefore, while CWI may alleviate immediate muscle soreness, it can compromise the long-term adaptive responses to resistance training. To balance recovery and muscle development, it's advisable to avoid cold plunges immediately after strength workouts. Instead, schedule them several hours later or on rest days to allow the body to initiate its natural growth processes.

Despite its potential drawbacks for muscle growth, cold plunging offers several benefits. It can enhance mood by increasing dopamine levels, leading to improved alertness and reduced stress. Additionally, CWI has been associated with better sleep quality and may support immune function. These benefits make cold plunges a valuable tool for overall well-being when used appropriately within a training regimen.

A 2013 study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Irvine, revealed that individuals who consumed extensive media coverage of the Boston Marathon bombings experienced higher levels of acute stress than those who were directly present at the event. The study, led by E. Alison Holman, Dana Rose Garfin, and Roxane Cohen Silver, surveyed 4,675 adults across the United States, including residents of Boston and New York City.

Findings indicated that participants exposed to six or more hours of bombing-related media daily in the week following the event reported significantly greater acute stress symptoms compared to those with minimal media exposure. This research challenges the assumption that direct exposure to traumatic events is the primary source of stress-related disorders, highlighting the profound impact of media consumption on mental health.

The study underscores how repeated exposure to graphic images and sensationalized reporting can amplify psychological distress. Media outlets often employ emotionally charged content to capture viewers' attention, which can inadvertently prolong the stress response in audiences. The researchers suggest that such exposure may lead to fear conditioning and rumination, potentially resulting in serious health consequences.

While staying informed is important, this research highlights the need for media consumers to be mindful of their exposure, especially following traumatic events. Limiting time spent on news coverage and seeking information from reliable sources can help mitigate the adverse psychological effects associated with excessive media consumption.

The Hume Health Body Pod is a sophisticated smart scale designed to provide a comprehensive analysis of your body's composition. By measuring various metrics, it offers valuable insights that can guide personalized health, diet, and exercise plans.

Understanding these metrics is crucial for achieving peak health, as they help tailor interventions to your body's specific needs.

Metrics Measured by the Hume Health Body Pod:

Weight: The total mass of your body. Regular monitoring helps track progress toward weight-related goals.

Body Mass Index (BMI): A ratio of weight to height, indicating whether you're underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. While a general indicator, it doesn't differentiate between fat and muscle mass.

Body Fat Percentage: The proportion of your body that is fat tissue. High body fat percentages can increase the risk of chronic diseases; thus, monitoring helps in managing and reducing excess fat.

Visceral Fat: Fat stored around internal organs. High levels are associated with increased risks of heart disease and diabetes. Reducing visceral fat through diet and exercise is vital for metabolic health.

Subcutaneous Fat: Fat stored beneath the skin. While less harmful than visceral fat, excessive amounts can affect physical appearance and overall health.

Muscle Mass: The weight of muscles in your body. Higher muscle mass boosts metabolism and strength, aiding in daily activities and overall fitness.

Muscle Mass Percentage: The proportion of your body weight that comes from muscle. Monitoring this helps assess the effectiveness of strength training programs.

Bone Mass: The weight of bone mineral content. Maintaining bone mass is essential to prevent osteoporosis and ensure structural integrity.

Body Water Percentage: The proportion of your body composed of water. Adequate hydration is crucial for bodily functions, and monitoring helps ensure proper fluid balance.

Protein Mass: The amount of protein in your body, essential for muscle repair and growth. Adequate protein levels support recovery and muscle development.
Protein Percentage: The proportion of your body weight that is protein. Monitoring this helps ensure sufficient protein intake for bodily functions.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): The number of calories your body needs at rest to maintain vital functions. Knowing your BMR aids in creating effective calorie-based diet plans.

Metabolic Age: Compares your BMR to the average BMR of your chronological age group. A lower metabolic age indicates better metabolic health.

Fat-Free Body Weight: The combined weight of muscles, bones, water, and other non-fat tissues. Monitoring this helps distinguish between weight loss from fat versus muscle.

Heart Rate: The number of heartbeats per minute. A lower resting heart rate often indicates better cardiovascular fitness.

Weight Control: An assessment of how much weight you need to gain or lose to reach your ideal weight based on your age, s*x, and height.

Skeletal Muscle Mass: The weight of muscles attached to bones, crucial for movement. Monitoring helps in assessing muscle health and function.

Importance of These Metrics:

Understanding and monitoring these metrics allow for a personalized approach to health and fitness. For instance, knowing your muscle mass and body fat percentage can help tailor strength training and dietary plans to build muscle while reducing fat. Tracking visceral fat is essential for assessing risks related to metabolic diseases, prompting timely lifestyle changes. Monitoring hydration levels ensures that you're adequately hydrated, which is vital for overall health and can influence other measurements like weight and muscle function.

By regularly assessing these parameters with the Hume Health Body Pod, you can make informed decisions about your diet and exercise routines, leading to more effective and targeted health improvements.

Here is how to get started:

Go to the app store on your phone and download the Hume Health Body Pod app for free. Don't worry about the paid version. Then, every time you come to the clinic get on the 3 Waves Clinic Hume Health Body Pod to get your reading. I will not be charging for this service.

I want everybody tracking these metrics and making adjustments to take better care of their health and longevity for a higher quality of life. For best results get a reading every time you visit the clinic and monitor your improvement in every metric that is so vital to health.

www.3wavesclinic.com

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc, often referred to as a "slipped" or "ruptured" disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc (called the nucleus pulposus) pushes through a tear or crack in the tougher outer layer (the annulus fibrosus). This condition can cause irritation to nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the area of the body served by those nerves.

Understanding the Anatomy of a Disc

Intervertebral discs act as cushions between the vertebrae in your spine, providing flexibility and shock absorption. Each disc consists of:

Annulus Fibrosus: A tough, outer ring of fibrous tissue that holds the disc’s shape.
Nucleus Pulposus: A soft, jelly-like center that absorbs pressure and allows movement.
When the outer layer weakens or tears due to injury, aging, or excessive strain, the inner material can bulge or leak out, resulting in a herniated disc.

Common Causes of a Herniated Disc

Degeneration: Discs naturally lose water content and elasticity as we age, making them more prone to tears.
Repetitive Strain: Activities that involve bending, twisting, or lifting improperly can place excessive stress on the discs.
Trauma or Injury: Sudden impact or accidents can cause the disc to herniate.
Poor Posture: Sitting or standing with poor alignment can place uneven pressure on the spine over time.

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the herniation but may include:

Pain: Sharp or radiating pain in the back, neck, or limbs (e.g., sciatica).
Numbness or Tingling: In the arms, hands, legs, or feet.
Weakness: Muscle weakness in the area served by the affected nerves.
Loss of Function: Difficulty standing, walking, or performing daily tasks.

How is it Diagnosed?

A herniated disc is diagnosed through:

Physical Examination: Assessing posture, strength, reflexes, and range of motion.
Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans can confirm the herniation and its impact on nearby nerves.
Cheat code: If it hurst when you cough or sneeze then you need help!

Treatment Options

Conservative Care: Chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and targeted exercises can help realign the spine, reduce pressure, and relieve symptoms.
Pain Management: Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed.
Lifestyle Modifications: Improving posture, using ergonomic furniture, and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce strain on the spine.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove or repair the damaged disc.

The Importance of Early Care

Ignoring a herniated disc can lead to chronic pain or permanent nerve damage. If you’re experiencing symptoms like persistent back pain or radiating numbness, seeking early care from a chiropractor or healthcare professional can help you avoid complications and get back to living pain-free.

At 3 Waves Clinic you get a special level of care with the combination of my spinal traction, bodywork, and custom exercises. You will be heading towards pain free living. The most important things to keep in mind are what is making it worse (things to avoid) and whats making it better (do them daily!)

If you’d like to learn more or schedule a consultation, feel free to contact me by texting me at the number below!

Dr. M. Ryan Saldivar, D.C.

Doctor of Chiropractic

415-852-0365

www.3wavesclinic.com

What is a Herniated Disc? — "3 Waves Chiropractic | Expert Joint & Spinal Pain Relief in Berkeley, CA | Orthopedic Bodywork, Shockwave Therapy & Chiropractic Care for Acute & Chronic Conditions" Spinal Traction and Decompression for Herniated Discs in the Lumbar Spine. - 3 Waves Clinic in Berkeley California

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc, often referred to as a "slipped" or "ruptured" disc, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of an intervertebral disc (called the nucleus pulposus) pushes through a tear or crack in the tougher outer layer (the annulus fibrosus). This condition can cause irritation to nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the area of the body served by those nerves.

Understanding the Anatomy of a Disc

Intervertebral discs act as cushions between the vertebrae in your spine, providing flexibility and shock absorption. Each disc consists of:
Annulus Fibrosus: A tough, outer ring of fibrous tissue that holds the disc’s shape.
Nucleus Pulposus: A soft, jelly-like center that absorbs pressure and allows movement.
When the outer layer weakens or tears due to injury, aging, or excessive strain, the inner material can bulge or leak out, resulting in a herniated disc.

Common Causes of a Herniated Disc

Degeneration: Discs naturally lose water content and elasticity as we age, making them more prone to tears.
Repetitive Strain: Activities that involve bending, twisting, or lifting improperly can place excessive stress on the discs.
Trauma or Injury: Sudden impact or accidents can cause the disc to herniate.
Poor Posture: Sitting or standing with poor alignment can place uneven pressure on the spine over time.

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Symptoms depend on the location and severity of the herniation but may include:
Pain: Sharp or radiating pain in the back, neck, or limbs (e.g., sciatica).
Numbness or Tingling: In the arms, hands, legs, or feet.
Weakness: Muscle weakness in the area served by the affected nerves.
Loss of Function: Difficulty standing, walking, or performing daily tasks.

Why Chiropractic Care is Important for Golfers

Golf is a sport that requires precision, balance, and fluid movement. While it may seem less physically demanding than contact sports, golf places significant strain on the body, particularly the spine, shoulders, hips, and wrists. Chiropractic care is an essential tool for golfers looking to improve performance, prevent injuries, and enjoy the game pain-free. Here’s why chiropractic is so beneficial for golfers:

1. Enhances Mobility and Range of Motion
A smooth, powerful golf swing relies on a full range of motion in the spine, hips, and shoulders. Tightness or misalignments in these areas can limit mobility, leading to reduced swing efficiency and inconsistent shots. Chiropractic adjustments help restore joint mobility, ensuring your body moves freely and fluidly for a better swing.

2. Improves Posture and Spinal Alignment
Golfers spend hours in a hunched position addressing the ball, which can strain the lower back and contribute to poor posture over time. Chiropractic care helps maintain proper spinal alignment, reducing the risk of back pain and improving your posture both on and off the course. Better posture also supports a more balanced and powerful swing.

3. Prevents and Manages Injuries
Common golf injuries, such as lower back pain, golfer’s elbow, and shoulder strains, often stem from repetitive movements and biomechanical imbalances. Chiropractic care addresses these issues by improving joint function, reducing inflammation, and helping the body recover faster. Regular care can also prevent injuries by ensuring your body is properly aligned and functioning optimally.