Chiropractic Therapy

A chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a treatment where a chiropractor uses their hands or small tools to apply controlled pressure to a joint in your spine. The main goal is to improve how your spine moves and how your whole body functions. Chiropractic care is a drug-free treatment that’s generally safe when done by a trained and licensed professional. It’s often used by people with joint pain, back pain, or headaches.

Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore normal joint function and muscle balance, which can help reduce stress on your immune system and improve your overall health. The treatment might also include advice on exercises, hot/cold therapy, massage, nutrition, and proper posture to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

How Does It Work?

Chiropractic treatment usually involves multiple visits. Most people start seeing improvement after six to ten sessions. During your first visit, the chiropractor will ask about your health history and do a physical exam, focusing on your spine. They might also suggest additional tests like X-rays.

During a session, you’ll be positioned on a special padded table, often lying face down. The chiropractor will apply a sudden, controlled force to a joint, pushing it beyond its usual range of motion. You might hear popping or cracking sounds as the joint moves. Some people feel minor side effects like headaches or soreness for a few days after the adjustment. Chiropractic care can help with low back pain, headaches, neck pain, and other spine-related issues.

Common Conditions Treated with Chiropractic Care:

Chiropractors treat issues related to joint damage, misalignment, and disorders, especially along the spine. Here are some conditions they can help with:

• Back Problems: From general discomfort to complex issues like fibromyalgia.
• Arthritis: Both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can be managed with chiropractic adjustments.
• Headaches: Chiropractors can relieve tension headaches by addressing trigger points in the neck.
• Neck Pain: The cervical spine (neck) is often a focus of chiropractic care.
• Musculoskeletal Conditions: Chiropractic therapy can help with a variety of musculoskeletal issues by adjusting the body’s joints and improving overall alignment. Conditions that can be treated include:
• Plantar fasciitis
• Tendinitis
• Sprains and strains
• Fractures
• Ligament injuries
• Whiplash
• Herniated discs
• Scoliosis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Frozen joints
• Muscle, joint, or ligament tears and pulls
• Osteoarthritis

Who Can Benefit from Chiropractic Treatment?

Chiropractic care is based on the idea that the body’s structure, especially the spine, affects its function. By correcting alignment, chiropractors believe they can relieve stress and allow the body to heal itself. Though the spine is the main focus, chiropractic care also includes treatments for posture, nutrition, and exercise to support overall health.

Chiropractors may suggest exercises to improve your range of motion and might ask about your sleep habits and mattress quality, as good sleep is essential for recovery. Chiropractic care is a great option for those seeking an alternative to surgery or pain medication and can also improve sleep quality, breathing, and energy levels.