Raleigh Chiropractor : Dr. John S. Boccella
As far back as I can remember, after giving up on my dreams of playing Major League baseball, I always knew that I wanted to be a doctor.
My Introduction To Chiropractic
My paternal grandparents immigrated from Italy to the United States in 1961. As a little boy, I remember hearing stories about my grandmother's terrible allergies since coming to America - so I wanted to be an allergy doctor. As a pre-teen, I started playing competitive sports. Unfortunately, I found myself visiting the orthopedists office frequently with various broken bones over the next few years. I liked looking at x-rays and the idea of working with bones but wasn't too crazy about the surgery, blood and drug part. I figured I'd get over that when I was a little older.
When I was about 12 years old, the school nurse thought she detected a slight curvature to my spine. She recommended that my mother take me to an orthopedist for an evaluation. Fortunately, my mom took me to a chiropractor instead! Dr. Henry Bruce in Haddon Heights, NJ introduced me to chiropractic. He showed me my x-rays and explained where the problem areas were and what he would need to do - all without surgery, blood or drugs - perfect! He was what I know call a traditional chiropractor because he used the traditional manual techniques that "crack" the spine. He was awesome though! I was amazed at how much better my young body could feel. My back didn't hurt anymore and I regained my speed on the athletic fields. I knew right then that I wanted to be a chiropractor too!
Education and Chiropractic College
I mapped my way through high school to college knowing that I was going to go to chiropractic school one day. I attended several different colleges to achieve my goals beginning at the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. I transferred to a smaller school in Elkins, West Virginia to be closer to my girlfriend Jennifer (who is now my wife). Ultimately, I earned my undergraduate degrees (Biology major/Chemistry minor).
In 1992, I began my chiropractic education at Life Chiropractic College (currently known as Life University) in Marietta, Georgia. I had no idea what I was getting myself into once classes started at 7:00am until 7:00pm Monday through Friday, but I loved it!
I chose Life College because it was considered the best chiropractic school in the US. And because I was exposed to dozens of different chiropractic techniques and philosophies.
Family and Hobbies
I have been married since 1994 to my high school sweetheart, Jennifer. We moved to Raleigh immediately after I graduated from Life in June 1995. We have three awesome boys - Drew, Christian and Matthew (twins). I am usually playing chauffeur as I drive them from one ice hockey rink to the next or from one baseball field to another. I love to watch my boys play. We are all avid fans of the Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies. I enjoy listening to music, reading a good book or riding my motorcycle (Victory Vegas) when time permits.
Living The Chiropractic Lifestyle
I try to practice what I preach, but I'm not perfect either. I do my best to take care of myself by using preventative measures. I usually have my spine checked 1-2 times per month. I like to get a deep tissue massage monthly to help reduce muscle tension. I believe in moderation for my diet. I don't have a big sweet tooth, but who doesn't like a bowl of ice cream every once in a while? I take some antioxidant supplements every day in addition to Vitamin C and Omega 3's. I try to do a simple workout routine at home 2-3 times per week (on a good week) to maintain strength and stamina. So simple, anyone could do what I do if they wanted to.
Thanks for visiting our site. I look forward to meeting you in person and learning how we may be of service to you. Give our office a call or email me using the link below and let’s arrange a time to explore your options.
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