When many people think about conditions treated by chiropractors, the main ones that come to mind include slipped discs in the back, backaches, sore or stiff necks, and possibly whiplash injuries. The truth is that we treat all these but so much more as well.
Chiropractic is based on the knowledge that both the body and mind can heal when given the right opportunity. This allows for the treatment of a wide variety of issues.
The following two conditions are the first in the list of those you might not have realized could be treated by chiropractic.
Weakened Immune Systems
Research has shown that there is a firm link between the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. It’s through this combined system that the body relays its need for healing and the responses needed to carry out that healing. This is handled in part through the utilization of messenger molecules.
One particular messenger molecule, known as IL-2, was considered to be an immune system molecule. Recent research however has shown it to be present and active in the nervous system as well. Its presence there is leading researchers to link neural dysfunction from spinal misalignment (subluxation) to stress reactions by the body. These then lead to much less than adequate immune responses.
The endocrine system can also have a direct impact on the immune system through the production of cortisol. This stress hormone acts as an immune system inhibitor. Continuing levels of stress and subluxation can cause an increase of cortisol production, thus overstimulating the sympathetic nervous system and further inhibiting the immune system.
How can I, as a Doctor of Chiropractic, help you?
- Currently, chiropractic care is the only means for detection and elimination of subluxation. Also, adjustments from chiropractors helps to reduce stress that may be affecting the nervous system thus boosting the coordination of the responses from both immune and nervous systems.
- Research has shown that when a subluxated area was adjusted, there was a significant increase in WBC (white blood cell count).
- One study took a close look at how regular chiropractic visits effected the immune systems of patients with HIV. After six months of regular adjustments the study found a marked increase in the number of CD4+ T cells. The control group who had not received adjustments showed a decrease in the same cells.
Tension Headaches/Migraines
Headaches are amazingly, but not surprisingly, common in America with nine out of ten Americans suffering from them. While some are occasional, others can be quite persistent. Likewise, some can simply an aggravation with others causing nausea and becoming debilitating in nature. Many people try to simply pop a painkiller and hope for the best, but I and my fellow chiropractors offer a different option.
Interestingly, the most common form of care that we provide – spinal manipulation – is often one of the most effective means of treating tension headaches and any others that originate in the neck.
During one clinical trial carried out at Macquarie University, almost three quarters of participants (each of whom lived with regular migraine headaches) experienced what they deemed noticeable or even substantial improvement after a period of chiropractic care.
One thing that many don’t realize is that a fair number of headaches can be directly linked to muscle tension originating in the neck. This is due in large part to lifestyle and work related habits that including staying in the same position or maintaining the same posture for long periods (think sitting in front of a computer or TV). This can cause joint aggravation and tension through the scalp and upper back that then leads to headaches.
How can I, as a Doctor of Chiropractic, help you?
During your visit to my office I will typically do the following:
- Address issues tied to subluxations through spinal manipulation. These chiropractic adjustments will help relieve the stress on your system and will help improve spinal function.
- I may offer nutritional advice including recommending changes in your diet or vitamins that may be of assistance
- I may also offer advice on various exercises, how to improve your posture, and on ergonomics.
In my next article I will cover some of the other issues that can be addressed through proper chiropractic care. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions, comments, or requests on chiropractic related articles you would like to see on the site. At Lane Chiropractic, I strive to not only treat but to educate each of my patients as well.
