When the founding chiropractors described what they were treating, they called it a subluxation. However, when this word is broken down, we find that it also represents a bone being slightly out of place:
Chiropractic care helps maintain the operation of the human body’s fantastic machine. For instance, when the spine is not aligned, it can lead to various issues throughout the body. Therefore, numerous methods are employed by chiropractors to straighten the spine and enhance general functionality.
One common technique is called spinal manipulation. The chiropractor presses on the patient using their hands, using the spine and manipulating it into proper alignment. This can be done through various techniques, depending on the patient’s needs.
Another common technique is called spinal decompression. The chiropractor uses a machine to apply gentle traction to the spine. This helps to stretch the spine and relieve pressure on the vertebrae.
These are just a few techniques that chiropractors use to treat their patients. Chiropractic care is an effective way to treat various conditions and improve overall health. If you believe chiropractic care could help you, please consult with a qualified practitioner.
What Are the Advantages and Drawbacks of Chiropractic Care?
Acute low back pain, the kind that develops quickly from moving furniture or being tackled, is commonly treated with chiropractic therapy and spinal manipulation, generally recognized as safe, effective treatments. Contrary to chronic pain, acute back pain is more common and typically goes away on its own within six weeks.
According to research, chiropractic care has also been effective in relieving headaches and neck discomfort. In addition, mild pressure employed by both chiropractors and deep tissue massage therapists may be effective in treating conditions including osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia.
Prolotherapy or sclerotherapy, used by specific chiropractors, osteopathic physicians, and medical professionals to treat chronic back pain, which might develop abruptly or gradually and last for more than three months, has not been proven beneficial in studies. Therapy entails injections of substances like sugar water or anesthesia to strengthen the ligaments in the back.
Spinal manipulation should not be done on patients using blood thinners suffering from inflammatory arthritis, osteoporosis, or spinal cord compression. Additionally, anyone with a history of cancer should get their doctor’s permission before receiving spinal manipulation.
The doctor may perform one or more manual adjustments to the joints as part of the therapy plan to increase the range of motion and quality of movement. Nutritional counseling and physical activity/rehabilitation are other common additions to the treatment plans of chiropractors. Chiropractic Care seeks to prevent injuries and restore function in addition to decreasing back pain.
The foundation of any treatment for your back pain is a precise diagnosis. The chiropractor should be knowledgeable about your medical history, including any operations or trauma you’ve had in the past, any drugs you’re taking, any lingering conditions, and your lifestyle choices. Although rare, treatment for a herniated or slipped disc has occasionally worsened the situation, and neck manipulation has sometimes resulted in spinal cord damage. To be safe, check with your doctor to see if chiropractic care or other pain relief methods are appropriate for your condition.
What is involved in chiropractic care?
A chiropractor will first ask to determine if you should undergo therapy for your back discomfort. It will ask you about your medical history, perform a physical examination, and maybe request blood tests or diagnostic imaging.
To improve mobility quality and range of motion, the doctor may manually modify one or more joints as part of the therapy plan. Before beginning chiropractic care, tell your doctor about any health conditions and medications you are taking.
Chiropractic care is a form of an alternative medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Proponents claim that such conditions affect general health via the nervous system. The primary chiropractic technique involves manual therapy, especially manipulation of the spine, other joints, and soft tissues, but there is also an emphasis on exercising health promotion and nutrition. Chiropractic is generally categorized as complementary and alternative medicine.
The most typical issue is that chiropractic treatment is utilized for neuromusculoskeletal problems, such as headaches, neck pain, back stiffness and pain in the joints of the arms or legs. Proponents claim that such disorders affect general health via the nervous system. However, any scientific evidence does not back these assertions.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care?
Back discomfort is the most frequent cause of chiropractic visits. Although the evidence is inconclusive, chiropractic care effectively treats low back pain.
One review found that spinal manipulation may be effective for treating headaches, but the evidence is not strong enough to recommend it as a first-line treatment.
Another review found that manual therapy (including chiropractic care) combined with exercise is more effective than alone for treating neck pain.
Some data suggests that chiropractic treatment also be effective for treating other musculoskeletal conditions, such as:
- Arthritis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Migraines
- Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- Sciatica (leg pain)
Does chiropractic care come with any risks?
Most people tolerate chiropractic care well. But there are some risks, such as:
- Disc herniation (also called a slipped disc)
- A headache following therapy
- Muscle or joint pain
- Arms or legs feeling numb or tingly
- An increase in pain symptoms
Before you begin chiropractic care, tell your doctor about any health conditions and medications you are taking.
Also, let your chiropractor know if you’re pregnant, as you should avoid some chiropractic techniques during pregnancy.
Because they are unsure of their insurance, many people are reluctant to visit a chiropractor. However, Fullness of Life Chiropractic’s chiropractor accepts most insurance plans. We recognize that buying insurance is one approach to help as many individuals as possible get the back pain relief they require. Please call or visit our website if you have any questions regarding your coverage. We’d be pleased to assist you in determining whether your insurance covers chiropractic care.