Nearly everyone suffers from back pain at some point. One treatment option is chiropractic care, which often includes spinal manipulation (also called manual manipulation), exercise advice, and self-care recommendations. Research shows that spinal manipulation can help relieve pain and improve function in people with acute low-back pain, one of the most common types of back pain. Duke’s Spine Health program offers chiropractic care and other conservative treatments for back pain as part of its whole-person approach to helping you feel better faster.
What kinds of conditions does a chiropractor treat?
I mainly see spine-related conditions. This includes pain in the low back (called the lumbar spine), the upper back (called the thoracic spine), and the neck (cervical spine). Some of my patients have had a recent injury while others have had pain for many years. Common causes of spine pain include disc problems and muscle spasms. Many patients have leg or arm pain or headaches in addition to back and neck pain. Chiropractors often work with injuries in other parts of the body, too — knee injuries, shoulder injuries, things like that — but my main focus is on the spine.
When can a chiropractor help with back pain?
People often want to try the kind of conservative approaches that chiropractors provide first. In fact, this is what many clinical care guidelines recommend. So before trying treatments like injections or surgery for back pain, they may want to consider chiropractic care, physical therapy, or acupuncture. Much of the time, back pain resolves with this kind of treatment.
What types of chiropractic treatments do you offer?
I primarily use manual manipulation. That means I use my hands to try to improve movement in your spine. If I can improve joint mobility in a certain area — the spine, neck, middle back, lower back, pelvis — it may reduce muscle tightness. It can also help with irritation of nerves that travel down the arm or leg, causing numbness or tingling, pain, or even changes in strength. I sometimes use other therapies as well, such as giving people exercise instructions or self-care recommendations.
What are some other aspects of chiropractic care?
I spend about 20 to 25% of my time talking with and listening to my patients. We talk about flexibility; we talk about strength-building; we talk about balance. I look at your ergonomics: What do you do for work? How do you bend, turn, lift? Do you ride in a car all day? Do you sit in front of a computer? I try to understand what may be contributing to the pain or other symptoms you may be experiencing.
Often, I’m trying to help patients by encouraging them: “Yes, you can do this,” or “When something like this happens, try to do this instead of that.” That way, they’re not anticipating pain and causing more pain and more muscle spasms. Pain scientists have found that anticipation of pain can lead to more episodes, more muscle spasms, more headaches, and so forth. So, teaching patients how to think about pain is important.
Our goals focus largely on returning people to the activities that are important in their lives, whether those are job-related, family or socially oriented, or recreational in nature. Active people are healthier and happier.
What should I expect at my first visit to a chiropractor?
It won’t be a lot different from what you’re used to with other medical providers. I first gather a lot of information about you by asking questions: how your pain began, what is the effect on your pain when you do this or that, what your level of pain is, and any other symptoms you may have. If your information is in My Duke Health (previously Duke MyChart), I’m going to read it beforehand. This includes if you have images — MRIs, X-rays — or blood work.
Then I’m going to perform an exam that assesses both the medical and mechanical aspects of your pain. For example, I’ll look at alignment, muscle tone, nerve function, how your body is moving, how well you can bend, turn, twist, and what kind of movements reproduce the symptoms you’re having. If you haven’t had X-rays or other imaging and we need to order it, we can do that. However, most patients do not need imaging at their first visit.
After the exam, we have a discussion: “This is what I think is happening with your spine, these are the treatments I would recommend, and this is how I think it will help you.” Since I’m part of a team, if I think a patient will get additional benefit or more benefit from seeing a physical therapist, physiatrist, spine surgeon, or other provider, I will also suggest that referral.
Do you offer virtual visits?
I offer video appointments for virtual exams, diagnoses, and patient education. I might recommend self-care that you can do at home like heat therapy or stretching, or you may need to make an in-person appointment for hands-on treatments or additional evaluation.
Are there risks or pain associated with spinal manipulation?
Your muscles may be a little sore afterward and some patients feel a little tired. However, most of these symptoms are gone in less than 24 hours. Fortunately, complex side effects associated with manual manipulation are rare.
How often do I need to see a chiropractor?
At first, I might see a patient once or twice a week. If the condition is acute, I might see the patient every day to begin. As they improve, I recommend fewer visits and start giving the patient more things to do on their own at home. I want my patients to be as independent as possible. There are patients who have chronic problems and need to come back and see me occasionally. But the great majority of patients have issues that are resolvable, and I may never need to see them again after their condition has improved.
Patients dealing with back or neck pain usually consider chiropractic treatment. This type of treatment is considered alternative care. Chiropractors are not medical doctors –– rather, they are healthcare professionals that provide examination, diagnosis, and personalized treatment for issues affecting the spine, nervous system, and other joints in the body. Before undergoing chiropractic treatment, you need to know what the process entails so you can make informed decisions.
Important facts about chiropractic treatment
The following are important things to know before undergoing chiropractic care:
Chiropractic means “hands-on care”
The word “chiropractic” derives from two Greek words and mean “hands-on care.” Chiropractic treatment focuses on how the bones, joints, and muscles affect overall well-being. Chiropractors do not prescribe drugs nor do they perform surgery. They apply controlled pressure – often with their hands – to restore mobility to the joints. The treatment may also involve exercise and lifestyle counseling.
Chiropractors do not only perform adjustments and manipulations
Chiropractors also provide treatments, including heat and ice care, deep tissue work, relaxation training, and exercises. Some specialists may stimulate the muscles using an electrical device. They also provide advice regarding overall health, including nutrition, weight loss, and healthy lifestyle modifications.
Chiropractic care is not usually painful
Chiropractors use hands or equipment for manipulations. The patient may hear a popping sound while undergoing adjustments, but these are not cause for concern. The sound produced is due to a change in the pressure inside the joint. The sound is also called cavitation, similar to the sound heard when cracking knuckles. It is common to feel sore or numb after manipulation. A warm bath and mild stretching exercises will help relax the muscles and relieve the pain.
Chiropractors undergo extensive education and training
Chiropractic professionals must graduate from college and study premedical subjects the same way medical doctors do. Afterward, they must attend an accredited chiropractic college for about four to five years. Their studies often include bone disorders, nervous system disorders, manipulations, anatomy, X-rays, nutrition, and exercise therapy. To obtain a license to practice, chiropractors must pass a national board examination.
A physical examination is necessary during an initial appointment
Patients who visit the chiropractor will have to fill out paperwork and provide overall health information and purpose of the visit. After completing the paperwork, the chiropractor will obtain the patient’s full medical history, including the nature of the condition, routine activities, job, sporting activities, and other recreational activities.
The chiropractor will perform a full body and spinal exam, orthopedic tests, neurological tests, postural exam, and active ranges of motion to get enough information about the condition and make an accurate diagnosis. X-rays of the affected area may be taken to get more detailed information.
The length of an adjustment
The time required for an adjustment depends on the complaints. Generally, single adjustment only takes about five to 10 minutes, but additional physical therapy and exercises may be necessary, which may increase the treatment period. The adjustment will induce the spine and body to remove the interference in the nerves and restore full motion for proper healing.… Read the rest
Have you ever visited a chiropractor to relieve pain in your back or neck? Many of us have, but that’s not all chiropractic care can treat. Your chiropractor does not just align your vertebrae or treat your back pain. In fact, a chiropractor promotes better health, improves the quality of life, and provides ongoing maintenance care. Once you start visiting a chiropractor, you will begin to experience a host of benefits.
Let’s talk about some top health benefits of chiropractic care.
Improved Range of Motion
Regular chiropractic care can quickly help you get through your daily activities with an improved range of motion. Pain from chronic problems like back pain or arthritis and recent injuries can keep you from moving freely and enjoying your life. A chiropractic adjustment will not only help relieve these pains but will also prevent health problems from developing.
Improved Immune Function
A healthy immune system protects you from various infections and diseases. Your nervous system plays a vital role in the regulation of immune cell functions. Therefore, a slight misalignment in your nervous system can interfere with healthy immune functions. Your chiropractor can align and restore your nervous system and ensure your immune system remains healthy.
Improved Digestion
Your spinal nerves also control your stomach functions. When your spinal nerves are misaligned, it can interfere normal function of your gut. These spinal nerve misalignments can lead to acid reflux, gas, and heartburn. Your chiropractor will align nerves in your thoracic spine, which may ease stomach issues.
Easier Breathing and Better Asthma Control
Like all other organs, your lungs also rely on the nervous system for proper functioning. You may have a lung problem if nerves in your cervical and thoracic spinal regions are misaligned. Your chiropractor will realign your vertebrae, which will allow your nerves to function properly. It will also reduce lung inflammation, and you can breathe easily without an inhaler.
Enhanced Physical and Athletic Performance
If you are an athlete, any misalignment in your spine can negatively affect your physical and athletic performance. Due to non-invasive spinal manipulation, many professional and amateur athletes rely on regular chiropractic adjustments to maintain and improve their performance. Regular chiropractic adjustments will also increase your training ability.
Reduced Inflammation
Inflammation is an immune system response to stimulate healing. However, if inflammation stays for an extended period, it is called chronic inflammation. An imbalance in your immune system can cause chronic inflammation, which interferes with your normal bodily functions. It can also decrease your mobility, slow down tissue healing, and decrease your quality of life.
Regular chiropractic visits can reduce inflammation and discomfort. Chiropractic adjustments also normalize your body’s production of inflammatory mediators.
Healthier Pregnancy
Chiropractic care is not only limited to you, it can even help your developing baby. Your chiropractor can assist you in pregnancy and ensure a healthier pregnancy and more effortless delivery. During pregnancy, your weight increases in the body’s core, which increases pressure on the spine. Your chiropractor will take care of your spine to ease your pregnancy. Regular chiropractic care will also improve your sleep, mood, blood circulation, and increase energy.… Read the rest
Maintaining your overall health has never been more important. With the rise of coronavirus, it has become increasingly apparent that your health really is everything – and maintaining the health of your fellow members in society matters, too. Chiropractic has played an important part in health maintenance since it was developed over 100 years ago, but it is worthwhile to remember just how many ways it can help you stay strong and mobile, not to mention strengthen your immune system. Chiropractic plays a major role in keeping everyone healthy, even during the most devastating global events.
Chiropractic – Why It’s Essential to Your Health
It keeps you mobile.
Chiropractic care has been used by athletes, first responders and everyday people for decades to maintain their mobility. There are few other healthcare practices that focus so strongly on maintaining the full range of motion and effectiveness of the musculoskeletal system as chiropractic.
Adjusting your spine and other joints to keep them operational, minimize inflammation and lessen pain is always a good idea. If you want to keep your body going strong, chiropractic should make up a part of your regular healthcare routine.
It helps you recover from injuries.
Injuries happen. They happen to athletes on the field and to workers going about their daily tasks. Even office workers sustain injuries. The fact is, your body is fairly well designed and can keep going through a lot of adversity – but it is not immune to trauma or wear and tear.
Chiropractic is excellent for recovery. Your chiropractor can identify what has caused or is causing your injury and design a treatment program that will take you from where you are now to a stronger, more mobile and more pain-free place. It may take some time and effort on your part, along with adjustments along the way from your chiropractor, but you should be able to heal from your injuries given the right treatment.
It improves your immune function.
The body is made up of many complex systems that all work together to create you. Your immune system is just one of those systems, but it is obviously important – particularly when you are trying to avoid getting sick.
Chiropractic supports immune function in a variety of ways. Treatments can improve your circulation both of blood and of lymphatic fluid. They can also relieve stress and relax tensions that you didn’t even know you had. All of these combine together to improve immune function.
It can keep you going through severe adversity.
For those working in some of the most demanding positions in our current times – like first responders and nurses, chiropractic can help you get through difficult times. You may be working long hours and facing uniquely challenging situations that are causing you intense stress. Regular visits to your chiropractor for adjustments and other health-supporting treatments can do a lot to help keep you on your feet.
Adjustments will make sure that your spine and other joints remain in proper alignment through long shifts and extreme demands on your body. Complementary treatments like massage can relieve tension and stress that prevent you from doing your job to the best of your ability.
Chiropractic – Critically Important
The need for critical infrastructure workers for COVID-19 response is substantial. We want you to know that our chiropractic team is here to back you up in everything you do. Whatever challenges you need to overcome to serve your fellow community, we are ready to support your efforts through regular chiropractic care and targeted health improvement solutions designed to meet your unique needs.… Read the rest
When you hear the word “chiropractor,” you probably think of that one guy in high school who had a messed-up back from playing hockey. But times have changed, and chiropractic care has advanced significantly. Today, chiropractors are healthcare professionals who focus on diagnosing and treating mechanical problems in the spine, bones, and joints through manual manipulation.
It relieves pain and stress
According to the ACA, chiropractic care can relieve your pain and stress and can help you recover from injury more quickly. This is because a chiropractor can adjust the spine and joints to provide greater movement. They also use manual manipulations to release pressure on nerves, muscles, and joints that might be causing pain or discomfort.
Of course, some discomfort is not at all physical. To make the most out of your chiropractic treatment, make sure to address other areas of your life that may be causing you some distress. For instance, if your home is cluttered and messy, this could be adding more stress and discomfort to your life. So, make time to declutter and tidy up — and then make sure you stick to your new cleaning routine. This can go a long way toward reducing stress and improving your life at the same time.
It can prevent injuries
The muscles and bones in your body are connected. When one part of your body is out of alignment, it creates tension on the other parts that can lead to injuries. If you have mechanical problems in your spine, which is the most common, it can affect the nervous system and cause muscle fatigue or weakness. Chiropractic treatment includes manual manipulation of the spine to remove pressure and restore regular function. This not only relieves pain but also prevents injuries.
It promotes good posture
A big benefit of chiropractic care is that it promotes good posture. When your spine is in alignment, you’ll stand taller and walk straighter. As a result, your mood will improve and you’ll feel more confident when you walk into a room.
In fact, chiropractor can help people with depression and anxiety because they often have poor posture to begin with. Plus, if you have chronic pain or back pain, chiropractors can help relieve the symptoms by correcting your spine’s alignment.
It can ease digestion issues
Some of the most common reasons why people seek out chiropractic care are back pain and digestive issues. Doctor of Chiropractic can work on the nerves and muscles that affect digestion, easing symptoms like constipation, bloating, and stomach pain. This is just one reason why chiropractic care can help you feel better.
Conclusion
Chiropractic care is becoming increasingly popular as a healthcare alternative. As a chiropractor, I often get asked the question, “What’s the difference between chiropractic care and massage therapy?” The answer to this question is quite simple. Chiropractic care is focused on the spine as the central nervous system while massage therapy addresses muscles and tissues to release tension and pain.
There are many benefits of chiropractic care and it can be an excellent first-line treatment for many common health problems. While some might still have misconceptions about what chiropractic care is, it’s becoming more and more clear that this type of healthcare has many advantages for the health of your spine and body.… Read the rest
If you suffer from anxiety and depression, you understand how challenging it can be to manage your physical health. Mental health disorders differ in severity, and finding the right treatment can take time. Often, a combination of treatments can work together to improve symptoms. Chiropractic care, as part of a holistic health and wellness plan, can contribute to the relief of physical symptoms related to mental health disorders.
Does Chiropractic Care Help with Anxiety and Depression?
Balancing your mental and physical health is the best way to achieve the highest quality of life. Navigating your mental health is challenging at times, but you can simplify your efforts by using a holistic approach to treatment.
Your musculoskeletal system responds to your depression and anxiety. These mental health conditions are leading causes of muscle tension and high blood pressure in adults. Fortunately, you can improve your emotional well-being by addressing the physical symptoms of your mental health.
What Do Mental Health Issues Look Like in Patients?
Chiropractors treat patients who suffer from various physical and mental ailments. Typically, the most effective treatments target the patient’s physical symptoms first.
Mental health conditions may be difficult for some to spot at a glance. However, competent health care professionals can identify specific behaviors that indicate musculoskeletal pain.
For example, shortness of breath, tightness in the shoulders, and exhaustion are all visible symptoms a patient may exhibit.
How Do Anxiety and Depression Affect the Body?
Depression and anxiety can create a broad range of physical pain. Neck pain, muscle tightness, and headaches are some of the most typical manifestations of these illnesses. Other symptoms may include:
Loss of appetite
Trouble sleeping
Restlessness
Fidgeting
Trouble communicating or experiencing “word salad“
Picking at the skin or hair
Disassociation
Nausea
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
A panic attack will cause muscles in the chest and back to contract, causing significant discomfort in the patient. That is why chiropractors recommend physical therapy to manage breathing patterns and facilitate the proper flow of blood through the body.
Some symptoms may be more severe in patients with chronic anxiety disorders. A mental health clinician should help determine how effective chiropractic care might be as part of your mental healthcare plan.
Is Anxiety the Result of a Spinal Misalignment?
Anxiety may not necessarily result from misaligned vertebrae, but symptoms can worsen due to spinal problems. This medical condition may create significant pain and negatively impact your sleep pattern due to nighttime discomfort.
Studies support the claim that chronic pain and poor sleep contribute to other adverse anxiety symptoms.
Spinal adjustments from a reliable chiropractor can help ease pain and benefit your overall health. However, chiropractic treatment may not be the only solution for your mental healthcare plan. Doctors may also recommend prescription drugs or other services that reinforce pain management.
How Effective Is Chiropractic Care for Anxiety?
Stress is a symptom of anxiety that will cause your blood pressure to rise quickly. Managing your anxiety disorder is challenging when stress overwhelms you.
Chiropractic adjustments can lower your blood pressure back to healthy levels. These therapeutic services help clear the mind while you focus on healing. These services are generally effective for short-term relief.
Many patients who suffer from chronic anxiety depend on chiropractic care to manage panic attacks and muscle tension. Professionals recommend exploring different chiropractic services to find a solution that suits your preferences.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help My Mental Health Treatment?
A spinal adjustment is an effective way to ease back pain. Additionally, chiropractic treatment often utilizes additional therapies and services outside of spinal adjustments to strengthen your whole body and improve the health of your spine, joints, muscles, and nerves.
Some services include:
Joint realignment
Balance and motor control treatment
Injury recovery treatment
Injury prevention
Massage therapy
Prenatal support
If you suffer from musculoskeletal conditions that worsen your mental health, getting chiropractic care is a good first step toward relieving stress.
Will Chiropractic Care Cure My Mental Illness?
Chiropractic care is only one powerful tool for reducing physical and emotional stress. These services do not guarantee cures for patients suffering from mental health disorders but can contribute to the relief of symptoms.
Why Do I Cry After Chiropractic Adjustments?
Everyone responds differently to treatments. Some recovery methods release hormones and other neurological responses that may provoke an emotional reaction. Despite this, most patients testify that their experience with chiropractic care is positive.
Don’t hesitate to communicate your feelings or concerns with your chiropractor. These professionals have everything they need to provide a safe and comfortable environment during your treatment.
How Many Sessions Do Chiropractors Recommend?
The frequency of your visits depends on several elements, including age, health, and other risk factors. A chiropractor may recommend multiple sessions a month if your illness is severe and symptoms are intense. Other patients may only need a chiropractic adjustment now and again to ensure they feel their best.
Chiropractors will thoroughly assess your health before starting treatment. X-rays and non-invasive testing determine the level of care your spine and joints need. Using this data, your chiropractor will formulate a personalized plan for recovery.
You can also enjoy regular chiropractic services at your discretion. Many services, like massages, are an excellent way to decompress and focus on your health.
Am I a Good Candidate for Chiropractic Care?
Every patient is different. Doctors and licensed physical therapists will be the ultimate authority in determining the best treatment solutions for your condition.
Generally, everyone can enjoy the physical benefits of chiropractic treatment. Still, it may not always be the right or best approach to complementing your mental healthcare treatments at a given time.
If you want to ease muscle and joint pain, chiropractors will implement strategies that help you recover and elevate other functions. The effects of this therapy can help you regulate breathing, reduce stress, and regain confidence.
If you’re like most people, the first thing that comes to mind when you think of chiropractic care is the treatment of pain and injury. While chiropractic treatment is highly effective for short-term relief, chiropractic care can also be beneficial in the long term. Chiropractors are experts in spinal health and wellness, and they can help you achieve a greater level of overall health and well-being. In this blog post, we will discuss the many long-term benefits of regular chiropractic care.
Understanding Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a safe, natural, and drug-free approach to health and wellness. Chiropractors use gentle adjustments to improve spinal alignment and reduce pressure on the nervous system. When the nervous system is functioning properly, the body is able to heal itself more effectively. This has several benefits. In the short-term, chiropractic care can reduce or eliminate pain and help you heal from injuries. In the long-term, regular chiropractic care can help prevent harmful injuries, reduce stress and depression, improve mobility and balance, enhance flexibility, boost immunity to disease, and increase bodily awareness.
The Benefits of Long-Term Chiropractic Care
Now that we have a better understanding of what chiropractic care is and how it works, let’s take a closer look at the many benefits of long-term chiropractic care.
Injury prevention. One of the most important benefits of regular chiropractic care is injury prevention. Chiropractic adjustments help reduce pain and tension and improve overall balance and mobility. A body that moves better is one that is less prone to falls and other injuries, especially as we age.
Improved mental health. You may be surprised to learn that regular chiropractic care can help reduce stress and depression. Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health disorders in the United States. Chiropractic adjustments help reduce stress on the spinal column, leading to improved nervous system functioning. When the nervous system is functioning properly, it can better regulate the body’s response to stress. Additionally, the reduction or elimination of pain, particularly chronic pain, through regular chiropractic care can enhance overall well-being and contribute to a more positive daily outlook.
Enhanced mobility and balance. Chiropractic adjustments specifically target what are called spinal subluxations. Subluxations are misalignments of the spine that can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Regular chiropractic care helps relieve subluxations, improve spinal alignment, and restore range of motion in the joints. This leads to improved mobility and balance, both in the short-term and long-term.
Greater immunity to disease. When the nervous system is functioning properly, the body’s immune system is better able to fight off infection and disease. By reducing stress on the nervous system with regular spinal adjustments, you can help improve your overall immunity to disease. Additionally, because chiropractic adjustments improve blood flow throughout the body, they also help promote tissue repair and healing.
Increased bodily awareness. Adding chiropractic to your health care routine can contribute to a greater awareness of changes to your physical well-being. By working with a chiropractor to reduce chronic pain and improve overall bodily functioning, you should be better able to sense when something isn’t quite right. For example, if you develop a subluxation or misalignment in your spine, you may notice it sooner than you would if you struggled with daily pain and stiffness. A chiropractor can also help support you in improving your nutrition, sleep habits, physical activity, and other building blocks of a healthy lifestyle.
Greater flexibility. A flexible body is another great benefit of long-term chiropractic care. When your spine is aligned correctly, your muscles and joints are able to move more freely. This increased range of motion can lead to improved flexibility.… Read the rest
Most Australian’s will suffer from a variety of aches, pains and conditions throughout their lifetime. While most will not need professional intervention, chronic or serious issues might require external assistance. Chiropractors are experts in the health of the spine and how it affects the functioning of the body as a whole. If you are experiencing any of the below signs, it might be time to book an appointment with a chiropractor.
You are suffering from regular headaches and migraines
Headaches and migraines can happen due to any number of causes, from infections and stress to food choices and alcohol. One of the most common causes of continuous or chronic headaches is muscle tension in the neck and misalignment in the spine. This can be made worse by having a sedentary lifestyle or through the practice of poor posture at work or in the home. While it is recommended to first visit a doctor for diagnosis, if it is a muscular or spinal issue then a number of sessions with a chiropractor can make a huge difference to relieving the pressure causing your headaches or migraines.
You are experiencing frequent or constant back or neck pain
Because chiropractors are experts at examining the health and alignment of the spine, they can often help diagnose and correct chronic back and neck pain. Neck and back pain can go away by itself without any attention, however, if it is persistent then going to a chiropractor is a good idea. Constant back pain can be caused by things like vertebra being out of alignment, impingements and tissue injury. Spinal manipulation is a safe and reliable way of correcting these issues in the spine and relieving the causes of neck or back pain.
Your muscles and joints are often bothering you
Similar to neck and back pain, soreness in muscles and joints may also be connected to subluxations in the spine or misalignment of the body. Constant activity such as exercise can cause the body to become worn down and without the proper warm-up and cool-down routines, it can take a toll on the muscle and joints. Chiropractic care can help correct any issues that might be at the root cause of your muscle pain.
The soles of your shoes are showing signs of irregular wear
The soles of your shoes can be a fantastic indicator of the state of your body’s alignment. If you see wear on the inside of the foot or uneven wear between the right and left foot then it might mean that your body is not moving as it should be. A chiropractor can help you recognise what is causing the misalignment and offer treatment or advice for correcting it.
You have a limited range of motion
Limited range of motion such as being unable to bend at the waist or unable to turn your spine might mean serious tension or injury to parts of your body. Undergoing a physical exam through a chiropractor can help you recognise why you can’t move the way you should be able to and provide you with the treatment you need to bring motion back into your joints.… Read the rest
A chiropractic adjustment is a therapeutic treatment where a licensed chiropractor uses their hands or special instruments to manipulate joints in your body. This treatment is also called spinal manipulation or joint manipulation. A chiropractic adjustment can help reduce pain, correct your body’s alignment and how your body functions physically. Chiropractic adjustments offer treatment that complements traditional medical care you receive.
Who is a chiropractor?
A chiropractor treats many conditions affecting the nervous system and musculoskeletal system. Think of a chiropractor as a doctor who cares for any kind of muscle, bone or joint pain or dysfunction. The most common reasons for a chiropractic adjustment include:
Lower back pain.
Neck pain.
Muscle pain.
Headaches.
In addition, chiropractors can treat musculoskeletal pain anywhere in your body: in your head and jaws, shoulders, elbows and wrists, hips and pelvis and your knees and ankles.
What does a chiropractor do?
Chiropractors treat aches, pains, creaks and strains. If you’ve got a problem that involves your musculoskeletal system, a chiropractor can offer alternative methods of treatment that don’t involve prescribing medicine.
Treatment that a chiropractor may offer includes:
Adjustments: To gently realign joints to decrease pain and increase range of motion.
Soft-tissue therapy: To relax tight muscles, relieve spasms and release tension in the connective tissue that surrounds each muscle (fascia).
Exercises and stretches: To restore and maintain joint stability and mobility.
Joint bracing/taping (Kinesio taping): To support sprained joints or muscles as they heal.
Referrals to integrative medicine experts: For guidance on diet and nutrition to reduce inflammation and/or promote healthy eating to manage weight.
What does a chiropractic adjustment treat/manage?
Each person who seeks a chiropractic adjustment has a unique reason for their appointment, but all chiropractic adjustments treat your musculoskeletal system. Some people choose to have a chiropractic adjustment if they have the following conditions:
Chiropractors make sure not only that your joints are moving properly, but also that your surrounding muscles are functioning as well.
Why is a chiropractic adjustment done?
Chiropractic adjustments focus on alleviating symptoms that affect the musculoskeletal system. This could be to treat aches and pain, muscle stiffness or chronic conditions. Some people choose to get a chiropractic adjustment if they want an alternative form of treatment that doesn’t involve taking prescription medicine.
How common are chiropractic adjustments?
Chiropractic adjustments are the most common alternative treatment option in the United States.
Who can get a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is an effective treatment option for all ages, including both children and adults. The most common age range for someone to seek chiropractic care is between 45 and 64 years old. It’s more common for people assigned female at birth rather than people assigned male at birth to visit a chiropractor.
You should receive a screening before a chiropractic adjustment to ensure that you’re a good candidate for chiropractic care. If chiropractic care is not appropriate for your condition, your chiropractor will refer you to another healthcare provider to help you.
Procedure Details
What happens before a chiropractic adjustment?
At your first visit, your chiropractor will discuss your medical history and perform a physical exam. If needed, they’ll order diagnostic imaging tests done to understand more about your musculoskeletal system including:
After learning more about your symptoms and what might be causing your discomfort, your chiropractor will develop a unique treatment plan based on exam findings and the results of your tests.
What happens during a chiropractic adjustment?
During a chiropractic adjustment, your chiropractor will offer treatment that is unique to meet your needs.
You will lie face down on a chiropractic table that allows certain parts of your body (divided into segments) to lift slightly higher than the rest, which helps your chiropractor apply pressure to a specific area.
Your chiropractor will use their hands or small instruments to apply a quick, controlled force (amount of pressure) to a joint or they will gently stretch your joints beyond their normal range of motion. This helps align the vertebrae in your spine if they were slightly off-center and release gases trapped within your joints.
What is the popping sound I hear during a chiropractic adjustment?
You may feel and hear a popping or cracking sensations during a chiropractic adjustment. These are gases, like oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, released from your joints. Gas gets trapped in small cavities of your joints when you move and stretch. While this gas release may be more apparent during a chiropractic adjustment, you experience a similar sound when you crack your knuckles.
Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt?
Chiropractic adjustments offer little to no pain during a procedure, similar to what you might feel after a workout. You will not feel severe pain during a chiropractic adjustment. Your chiropractor will apply a controlled amount of force (pressure) to your joints, which creates a cracking or popping noise as the gas leaves your joints. While this may sound painful, it doesn’t feel painful.
What happens after a chiropractic adjustment?
After a chiropractic adjustment, you might feel mild soreness or have very minor aches in areas of your body that your chiropractor worked on. This feeling usually goes away within 24 hours and rarely affects people who see a chiropractor regularly.
After your appointment, your chiropractor might recommend “homework” for you to extend your therapy after an adjustment. These recommendations might include:
Exercises and stretches.
Proper ergonomics for improving your posture.
Icing/heat therapy or topical analgesics.
Advice on nutrition, diet, weight or general health.
What are the benefits of a chiropractic adjustment?
There are several benefits of a chiropractic adjustment including:
Helps minimize migraines and neck-related headaches.
Improves your posture.
Reduces pain and improves range of motion of your spine and other joints.
Reduces symptoms of chronic conditions like osteoarthritis.
Treats minor neck or spine injuries, especially whiplash.
What are the side effects or complications of a chiropractic adjustment?
After a chiropractic adjustment, you may feel tired or sore. Some people might get mild headaches after a chiropractic adjustment. These side effects are temporary.
In rare cases, chiropractic care may cause serious complications such as:
You have a higher risk of side effects or complications if you have adjustments from people who aren’t trained and licensed. Only a licensed, professional chiropractor should treat you.
Recovery and Outlook
What is the recovery time for a chiropractic adjustment?
Many people feel almost immediate relief from symptoms after a chiropractic adjustment. After treatment, you might feel sore for 24 hours.
The goal of a chiropractic adjustment is to restore your health over the long term, rather than to relieve your symptoms short term. Your chiropractor will encourage you to learn about new ways to position your body at your desk, when you’re standing and moving and when you’re in bed. They might also recommend incorporating stretches into your daily routine. These long-term tips can help prevent future problems.
It’s important to inform your primary care physician about any pain you’re experiencing, whether recent or chronic (lasting more than three months). Your primary care doctor can rule out potentially serious problems that need treatment beyond a chiropractic adjustment.
When to Call the Doctor
When should I see my healthcare provider?
If you receive a chiropractic adjustment and you feel unusual symptoms, such as weakness, numbness or worsening pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately for an evaluation.
When you think of chiropractic you most likely think about pain relief, but did you know that there are some distinct benefits to long-term chiropractic care? Even after the pain subsides you can still enjoy some great health advantages that you probably never even considered.
And these five top our list.
Stronger Immune System
Subluxations, or misalignments in the spine, can interfere with how your nervous system receives and sends messages throughout your body. This impacts how your body as a whole functions, especially your organs, including your heart, liver, lungs, and kidneys. When your body isn’t functioning as it should, neither is your immune system. When your body is in alignment and balanced, your nervous system can work as it should, and you will enjoy stronger immunity against diseases and better health.
Better Balance
When your spine is out of alignment it can throw off your balance. Even slight subluxations can cause a problem. This is especially important if you are older. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in four adults, age 65 and older, fall each year. One out of five falls causes serious injury including broken bones or head injury. Regular chiropractic care can help improve your balance, thus reducing your risk of falls as you get older.
Increased Lung Capacity
When you think about chiropractic, lung capacity is probably not something that immediately comes to mind, but a growing body of scientific evidence shows that regular chiropractic care increases a person’s lung capacity. This can, in turn, help lower your risk of stroke, heart attack, and other serious cardiovascular issues. Patients who see their chiropractor regularly are likely to experience improved lung volume, so make that appointment so you can breathe a little easier.
Less Prone to Injury
A body that is in proper alignment functions better. It’s just that simple. This means that it has better balance and is stronger which translates to a body that is less prone to serious injury. Regular, long-term chiropractic care keeps your body tuned up and balanced, so it functions at an optimal level. Then, your body can get the most out of your workouts. Additionally, chiropractic helps keep you flexible and improves your range of motion. This is also a very important factor in decreasing your likelihood of being injured during exercise or regular activity.
Improved Mobility and Flexibility
Seeing your chiropractor regularly will help keep your body flexible which can help keep you more mobile. This is particularly true if you sit at a desk all day. Chiropractic care helps you keep your body aligned and everything moving as it should. If you have osteoarthritis or tension headaches chiropractic can provide relief while loosening those joints and muscles so that you can move easier and without pain.
At Pure Wellness Chiropractic, we see patients every day for long-term and short-term care. Our caring, knowledgeable staff is ready to answer your questions so call today or schedule your consultation online. You’ll be so glad you did!… Read the rest
If you’re like most people, the first thing that comes to mind when you think of chiropractic care is the treatment of pain and injury. While chiropractic treatment is highly effective for short-term relief, chiropractic care can also be beneficial in the long term. Chiropractors are experts in spinal health and wellness, and they can help you achieve a greater level of overall health and well-being. In this blog post, we will discuss the many long-term benefits of regular chiropractic care.
