Getting help with your health does not always mean relying on medication or surgery. Sometimes, natural remedies can be just as effective in treating certain conditions. Chiropractic care is one such remedy that is helpful in treating a variety of issues.
So, what exactly is chiropractic care? Chiropractic care is a branch of alternative medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. Proponents claim that such disorders affect general health via the nervous system. Chiropractic is generally categorized as complementary and alternative medicine.
Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to treat their patients. The most common is spinal manipulation, which involves using the hands to manipulate the spine and other joints. This technique is said to help relieve pain and improve functionality.
The benefits of chiropractic care.
Unlike other forms of medicine, chiropractic care does not rely on medication or surgery. This makes it a more natural and holistic approach to health. Chiropractic care is effective in treating a variety of conditions, including:
Physiotherapist touching tense muscle of the back
Back pain
Pain is one of the most common reasons people seek out chiropractic care. Chiropractic treatment can be effective in treating both acute and chronic back pain. A chiropractor will work with you to identify the source of your pain and develop a treatment plan to address it.
Headaches
Chiropractic care can also help treat headaches, including migraines. A professional chiropractor will offer a variety of treatments, depending on the cause of your headaches. Chiropractic care is effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines in adults.
Neck pain
Like back pain, neck pain is a common reason people seek chiropractic care. Some of the most effective ways to treat neck pain are through spinal manipulation and mobilization. These techniques can help improve range of motion and relieve pain.
Arthritis.
Pain from arthritis is a common reason people seek chiropractic care. There are many different types of arthritis, but all involve inflammation of the joints. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected area. Chiropractic care can help relieve this pain by reducing inflammation and improving joint function.
Disc herniation.
A disc herniation occurs when the soft inner layer of a disc rupture and puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area. Chiropractic care can help reduce this pain by relieving pressure on the nerves and improving disc function.
Sciatica.
Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the legs, becomes compressed or irritated. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area. Chiropractic care can help relieve this pain by reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve and improving nerve function.
Whiplash.
Chiropractic care is suitable for treating whiplash, a condition that occurs when the neck is suddenly and forcefully whipped back and forth. This can cause pain, stiffness, and tenderness in the neck and shoulders. Chiropractic care can help relieve this pain by reducing inflammation.
There are many other conditions that chiropractic care can help treat, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, TMJ disorder, and more. If you are suffering from any of these conditions, please consult with a chiropractor to see if chiropractic care is right for you.
What to expect during your visit for professional chiropractic care?
During your first visit, the chiropractor will take a medical history and perform a physical exam. He or she will then develop a treatment plan. This may involve one or more of the following:
- Spinal manipulation: The chiropractor applies pressure to the joints of the spine to relieve pain and improve range of motion.
- Mobilization: The chiropractor uses gentle movements to help increase range of motion in the joints.
- Exercise: The chiropractor may prescribe exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the spine.
- Massage: The chiropractor may use massage to help relax the muscles and relieve pain.
- Rehabilitation: The chiropractor may recommend a rehabilitation program to help you recover from an injury or improve your overall health.
While these are some of the treatment options, the chiropractor will tailor the treatment to your specific needs.
Is chiropractic care safe?
Many people are afraid of chiropractic care, thinking that it is some kind of voodoo magic. Chiropractors use spinal adjustments and manipulation to correct these disorders. They may also use other treatments, such as heat, ice, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation.
Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when a licensed chiropractor performs it. Serious complications are rare, but they can occur. The most common side effects of chiropractic care are temporary and may include pain, muscle stiffness, and headaches.
If you are considering chiropractic care, it is important to choose a licensed chiropractor who has experience treating people with your condition. You should also make sure that your health insurance covers the treatment.
