Spinal health is one of the most important aspects of overall wellness. Taking steps to prevent back and neck pain from developing can save you from dealing with chronic injuries, and can help you feel better throughout your life. Many people use chiropractic care and treatments to improve their spinal health, but it can also help with a variety of other issues. It can relieve headaches, digestive problems, menstrual and premenstrual pain, asthma, carpal tunnel syndrome, joint pain and ear infections.
Chiropractic is a non-invasive, hands-on, regulated health care profession focused on the spine, muscles, joints and nervous system. Chiropractors are primary contact practitioners (meaning they can see you without a referral from your medical doctor) and are trained to recommend exercises, treat and rehabilitate health conditions that affect the bones, muscles and joints, as well as provide nutritional and lifestyle counseling.
A variety of treatments are used by chiropractors to relieve back and neck pain, including manual manipulation (also called spinal adjustment or mobilization). This involves the doctor using controlled force to gently move vertebrae and improve the quality and range of motion in the joints. Other common chiropractic techniques include massage therapy, spinal decompression and dry needling. Massage therapy uses pressure on muscle areas to reduce tension and improve flexibility, while spinal decompression utilizes a machine to help remove pressure from compressed discs in the spine, thus alleviating pain and improving function. Dry needling involves inserting small needles into trigger points to relieve muscle tightness and pain.
Regular chiropractic treatment can help prevent back and neck pain from recurring, as well as other issues that may be caused by poor posture, such as fatigue, low energy and a lack of strength. When the spine is in proper alignment, it allows for optimal blood flow to the muscles and other tissues. This can reduce inflammation, speed up healing and boost immune system function to fight off bacteria and viruses that may cause illness.
In addition to restoring healthy movement and reducing pain, chiropractic can help with digestive problems that are often caused by compression of nerves in the spine. It can also help with respiratory problems, ear infections and asthma that may be related to herniated discs or other spinal problems.
While it is generally safe for most people, there are certain cases that do not benefit from spinal manipulation. Anyone with a fractured bone, osteoporosis or inflammatory arthritis should avoid this type of treatment, as well as those taking blood thinners. It is also important for patients to inform their chiropractor of any numbness, tingling or weakness in their arms and legs, which could indicate a problem with blood vessels in the neck or spine.
Most people who visit a chiropractor are looking to alleviate back or neck pain, but it is a good idea for everyone to seek out chiropractic care to maintain healthy muscles, joints and the nervous system. It is a safe, effective treatment that can help you feel your best and decrease the need for frequent physician or health center visits.
It’s important to note that chiropractic care is a complementary and alternative form of healthcare. If you’re considering seeing your local Atlanta chiropractor, it’s advisable to consult with your primary healthcare provider first, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns. They can help determine if chiropractic care is a suitable option for you.