Is there anything quite like a July afternoon?
Between the long, golden days and the rhythm of summer, we hope you’ve found some time to slow down and soak it all in. We’re in full “summer mode” at Weiss Chiropractic, too! This month, we bring you fresh tips for your summer adventures, and as always keeping your spine happy so you can stay active, energized, and ready for whatever the season brings.
Doctor Spotlight: Dr. Haley Brefka, D.C.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE BRIDE!!
We are proud to feature Dr. Haley Brefka in this month’s team spotlight! Whether she’s leading our clinic operations or helping patients achieve their wellness goals, Dr. Brefka brings passion and dedication to everything she does!
What is one recent professional achievement you are most proud of?
One recent professional achievement I’m especially proud of is accepting the position of Physician Clinic Director. This role represents a significant milestone in my career and reflects the trust my colleagues and organization have placed in my leadership and clinical abilities. It has given me the opportunity to not only care for patients but also help guide clinic operations, support my team, and contribute to the growth and success of the practice!
What was the “Aha!” moment that inspired you to become a chiropractor?
As an athlete growing up, I saw firsthand how chiropractic care could improve performance and recovery. I was drawn to the natural, whole-body approach and the focus on finding the root cause of health issues rather than just covering up the symptoms.
If you could share one piece of health or wellness advice with every new patient, what would it be?
Take care of your body before it forces you to. Most people wait until they’re in pain, injured, exhausted, or sick before making their health a priority. Small habits done consistently moving your body daily, getting quality sleep, managing stress, staying hydrated, and addressing minor issues before they become major problems have a much bigger impact than any quick fix. Your health is an investment, not an expense. The choices you make today determine how you feel, function, and age tomorrow. Consistency will always outperform perfection. You only get one spine and one body; take care of them, and they’ll take care of you!
What is your favorite part about working with the Plymouth/Novi community?
My favorite part about working with the Novi and Plymouth communities is building lasting relationships with patients and their families. I love getting to know people beyond their symptoms, helping them achieve their health goals, and watching them return to the activities they enjoy. Both communities are incredibly welcoming and supportive, and it’s rewarding to be a trusted part of their healthcare journey.
And for some fun…
- If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be? “I would definitely choose flying! I’d love the freedom of being able to go anywhere in the world whenever I wanted, avoid traffic, and see everything from a completely different perspective.”
- Favorite local spots: “My favorite local restaurant is definitely Siam Spicy in Novi — the team there even knows my order by heart! In Plymouth, I love Bigalora for their pizza and wings. They are both great spots to meet up with friends and family.”
- Something people might be surprised to know: “I just got married on June 5th, 2026, to my husband, who I’ve been with for 7 years!”
Favorite Local Restaurants
- Siam Spicy — Novi
- Bigalora — Plymouth
The “Summer Spine” Survival Guide: Staying Aligned While Having Fun
Summer is officially in full swing! Whether you’re planning a road trip, tending to the garden, or finally taking up that new sport, it’s the season for movement. But all that extra activity can put unique strains on your spine and nervous system.
At Weiss Chiropractic, we want you to make the most of the season without letting back pain hold you back. Here are our top tips for a healthy, pain-free July:
1. The “Road Trip Reset”
Planning a long drive? Sitting for hours causes the discs in your spine to lose hydration and height, often leading to that familiar stiff, achy lower back feeling.
- The Fix: Use the “Rule of 45.” For every 45 minutes of driving, take a 5-minute break to get out of the car, walk around, and perform a few simple overhead reaches to decompress your spine.
2. Gardening Ergonomics
Spending time in the yard is great for the soul, but hours spent hunched over weeds is a recipe for upper back tension.
- The Fix: Invest in a low stool or a kneeling pad. Avoid twisting while lifting pots or bags of mulch — always pivot your entire body using your feet rather than twisting at the waist. If you’re pulling weeds, alternate your dominant hand to keep the strain balanced.
3. Stay Hydrated for Your Discs
We often think of water as a way to stay cool, but it’s crucial for your spine! Your spinal discs are largely composed of water; when you’re dehydrated, those discs lose their shock-absorbing cushion.
- The Fix: Aim for half your body weight (in pounds) in ounces of water per day. If you’re active in the heat, add an electrolyte source to help your nerves function optimally.
4. Weekend Warrior Caution
If you only play golf, tennis, or pickleball on the weekends, your body might not be “match-ready” for the intensity.
- The Fix: Ease into it. Spend 10 minutes performing dynamic stretches (like leg swings and arm circles) before grabbing your equipment. Consistent, gentle movement throughout the week helps prepare your joints for the high-intensity play you love on the weekends.
Remember: Your nervous system works hard all summer long to keep you moving. A quick check-up with us this month can ensure your spine is ready for all your adventures.
Office Hours
- Monday: 9am – 1pm & 3pm – 7pm
- Tuesday: 9am – 1pm & 3pm – 6pm
- Wednesday: 9am – 1pm & 3pm – 7pm
- Thursday: 9am – 1pm
- Friday: 9am – 1pm
- Saturday: 9am – Noon
Questions, or ready to schedule?
Novi: (248) 624-9393 · Plymouth: (734) 451-9700
Move Better. Live Better. · Weiss Chiropractic · Novi & Plymouth, MI · weisschiropracticmi.com