The spine is the central highway for the nervous system, sending signals between the brain and other parts of the body. If these signals are interrupted, it can result in pain and other problems. Visiting a chiropractor can help the body restore proper function, reducing or eliminating pain and improving overall health and wellness.
Chiropractic adjustments can relieve symptoms of many common conditions. Back pain is the most common reason for a visit, but adjustments can also help with neck pain, shoulder pain, migraines and other headaches, chronic fatigue, arthritis and other joint issues.
Unlike over-the-counter and prescription pain medicines, chiropractic care is natural and non-toxic. Many patients experience long-term benefits with chiropractic, even after a single adjustment. Using the right techniques, chiropractors can help reduce the need for pain medications and assist patients in maintaining their improvement with ongoing treatment.
Chiropractors use hands-on manual therapies, including spinal manipulation (sometimes called mobilization), traction therapy, soft tissue treatments, and therapeutic massage to treat musculoskeletal issues like sprains and strains, herniated discs, sciatica, fibromyalgia, chronic low back pain and other conditions. They may also teach patients exercises and stretches to maintain their health and improve function.
Most doctors recommend consulting a chiropractor before starting any new treatment regimen, such as chiropractic therapy. They will conduct a physical exam and evaluate your medical history. They can also recommend X-rays or other diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your pain.
After conducting an evaluation, a chiropractor will create a personalized treatment plan for your condition. A typical treatment plan includes a series of office visits for spinal manipulation and other treatments. Some patients require more frequent office visits than others, depending on the severity of their pain or other factors.
The most significant benefit of chiropractic care is the reduction in pain and related ailments. For example, a woman who was suffering from chronic migraines had her pain dramatically reduced by receiving regular chiropractic adjustments. The adjustments helped her to stop taking prescription pain medications. In addition, her blood flow was improved, which can aid in the healing of muscles and joints after injuries or overuse.
When the spine is properly aligned, it also helps boost the strength and energy of the rest of the body. This is because it allows for the flow of oxygen and nutrients, which help muscles work more efficiently. It also allows the body to better fight off infections and bacteria, especially those that are associated with poor posture and poor spinal mechanics.
Other forms of pain management include acupuncture, biofeedback and acupressure. These alternative therapies can also be helpful for those who cannot afford medication or have a drug interaction problem. By combining these lifestyle changes with the use of a chiropractor, you can reduce your pain and increase your ability to participate in the activities that you love.