Monthly luncheons focus on health Published March 18, 2011 By Nicole Turner Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Since January, the Health and Wellness Center has teamed up with a local doctor to host free Healthy Heart luncheons each month. During the luncheons attendees are served a healthy, nutritious lunch and receive tips on healthy living. This month's luncheon was from 11 a.m. to noon on March 8 in the Oklahoma Room, Bldg. 3001. Dr. Jason Block, a chiropractor, focused on headaches, temporomandibular joint disorder and carpal tunnel syndrome, as they all relate to nerves and can be associated with neck problems. Trauma, like car wrecks, simple falls and sports movements; toxins, such as cigarette smoke; and mental and emotional stress, can cause nerve damage that can essentially relate to headaches, TMJ and carpal tunnel. For those who sit at a desk all day, it is also important to maintain good posture to avoid these types of injuries and chronic pain. "We can help adjust the joints of the spine and the extremities to take pressure off the nerve. Usually if you have pain, there is a nerve involved," Dr. Block said. "The proper function of your entire body depends on the function and flow of nerves." Tanya Tock, management analyst in the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center Personnel Directorate, attended the luncheon because she has suffered many traumas and falls. She also has had minor concussions, asthma and allergies as well. Ms. Tock said she wanted to learn more about how chiropractic care can ease some of the pain she experiences from these things. "I know when your spine is correct, everything else is correct," Ms. Tock said. "The more knowledge you have, the better off you are." Laura Crowder, health and fitness specialist for the HAWC, said 49 people attended this month's luncheon, but she urges more to attend in the future. She said primary interest comes from the civilian population; however, military personnel are encouraged to attend. "This is one thing the HAWC is able to do for our civilians," Ms. Crowder said. For more information about the Healthy Heart luncheons, call Ms. Crowder at 734-5505.