When you’re suffering from back pain, chiropractic adjustments may provide a more effective and safer solution than medication. These manual spinal manipulations relieve misalignments by restoring the flow of nerve impulses, which promotes overall body function and motor skill regulation.
In addition, proper spinal alignment enhances the immune system by decreasing nerve irritation and allowing improved communication between the brain and the body. Many patients report fewer colds and other ailments after receiving regular adjustments. While the benefits are impressive, it’s important to understand that spinal manipulation is not without risk. In some cases, spinal manipulation has been known to worsen a herniated disc or increase the chance of an arterial dissection (which can lead to stroke).
A chiropractor uses precise maneuvers to manipulate the spine and restore correct alignment. There are several common methods, including lumbar roll, side posture, release work, and table adjustments. These techniques are safe for patients with most medical conditions. A physician should be consulted before treatment to rule out pre-existing conditions, such as osteoporosis and spinal cord compression, as well as any chronic or acute health issues, including blood-thinning medications and cancer.
Your spine is like the central highway of nerves that carry signals from your brain to various parts of the body. If your spine is misaligned, it can interrupt these vital communications and cause a host of symptoms, from pain and stiffness to headaches and fatigue. Chiropractic adjustments, which align the spine and improve nervous system function, help prevent these ailments by reducing nerve irritation and allowing better communication between the body and brain.
Spinal adjustments also improve the body’s ability to absorb and process nutrients, which may reduce digestive problems. In fact, a study published in the European Spine Journal found that chiropractic adjustments were more effective than physical therapy or corticosteroid injections for sciatic nerve pain. Researchers theorize that these positive outcomes are tied to a more efficient nerve system and an improved ability to regulate hormones and immune response.
While there is no definitive proof that spinal manipulation will boost immunity or decrease the likelihood of a viral infection, most people who receive regular adjustments notice a reduction in their symptoms and feel healthier overall. And that’s a good enough reason to consider chiropractic care if you’re dealing with back pain or other health issues. But always consult your doctor before beginning any new health regimen, even chiropractic adjustments. By helping keep the spine in proper alignment, regular visits to an Atlanta chiropractor can help prevent the development of serious health issues. It’s like getting your car oil changed on a regular basis instead of waiting until the engine breaks down to get it fixed.
