Chiropractic care is a safe, non-invasive form of therapy that can be used to treat a wide variety of ailments. Most chiropractors not only perform adjustments to the spinal column, but treat the extremities as well, adjusting misaligned joints and vertebrae so as to reduce pain and speed healing. Following are some of the most common complaints that respond well to chiropractic care:
Headaches – Those who suffer from frequent headaches may be overlooking one of the more common causes of the ailment, which is a misalignment of the vertebrae in the neck and upper spine. This misalignment can irritate spinal nerves and affect the blood vessels leading to the head. Though pain relievers may temporarily bring some relief, they do not address the underlying problem. A chiropractic adjustment can realign the vertebrae, bringing more long-term relief.
Arthritis – A study in published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that 73% of those seeking chiropractic care for treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia reported finding relief from their chronic pain with chiropractic treatment, and chiropractic care and light exercise were found to be more effective than anti-inflammatory drugs. Chiropractors can correct subluxations that have resulted from the breakdown of joint cartilage and which irritate the nerves.
Low back pain – Because the lower back is under a great deal of strain and pressure from supporting the entire upper body and must flex in many different directions, it is the area of the spine most prone to injury and pain. It is common for this part of the vertebral column to suffer from subluxations and slipped discs. A chiropractor can adjust the vertebrae in the lower back so as to take the pressure off the spinal nerves, without having to resort to surgery.
Sciatica – When the sciatic nerve that leaves the spine at the lower back and travels down the back of the leg becomes pinched, it can cause serious shooting pain. The most likely cause of sciatica is a herniated vertebral disc or a subluxation that is compressing the sciatic nerve. A gentle adjustment from a chiropractor can help to free the compressed nerve, bringing relief.
Carpal tunnel syndrome – The pain, tingling and numbness that are characteristic of carpal tunnel syndrome is commonly suffered by those who have jobs where they are required to do repetitive tasks with their hands, such as typing, hair cutting and construction work in which vibrating tools can create damage to the tendons of the wrist. Chiropractic manipulation of this area and the associated joints of the arm and shoulder have been proven effective in alleviating this condition.
Pregnancy – The increased weight in the abdomen increasing pressure on the lumbar vertebrae, coupled with the natural laxity to tendons and ligaments that is the result of hormones produced during pregnancy can cause a great deal of pain in the area of the lower back and pelvis. Chiropractic care has been found by many to help relieve pain and make labor and delivery easier.
Tendonitis/bursitis – The wear and tear our bodies take from either the jobs we do or the sports we practice can often lead to inflammation of the tendons or bursa. Hip bursitis is a common complaint of runners and bikers, who put a lot of strain on their hip joints. Chiropractic care can use stretching and manipulation to address structural problems and restore range of motion. Your chiropractor can also use physical therapy and suggest exercises to help strengthen the surrounding tissues to avoid a recurrence of the problem in the future.
