So glad you asked! Chiropractic is a holistic healthcare system based on the scientific fact that our bodies require spinal adjustments to realign the vertebrae so that the nervous system can work without interference, helping the body achieve its highest level of wellness.
A spinal adjustment occurs when a Doctor of Chiropractic (Chiropractor) applies a calculated amount of pressure to specific spinal bones, gently sliding them back into proper alignment, resulting in improved spinal function and neurological health. Some techniques are more aggressive than others, and your doctor will determine the proper amount of pressure, based on the health and stiffness of your spine at the time of treatment.
The beneficial effects of the spinal adjustment are far-reaching. Not only does an adjustment help in restoring and maximizing smooth movement of the spine, but it also helps to slow the degenerative process and, most importantly, improve neurological function. Restoring spinal function improves physical performance, prevents unforeseen injuries, and improves function of ALL the organs and tissues of the body.
Scientific literature, as well as countless patient testimonies, cite chiropractic adjustments as helping to support or alleviate both spinal and non-spinal conditions including the following – some of which may surprise you!
- Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Numbness & Tingling Upper & Lower Extremities
- Slipped Disc
- Stenosis
- Sciatica
- Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
- Arthritis of the Spine and Discs
- Tension & Migraine Headaches
- Wry Neck (Torticollis)
- Blood Pressure
- Allergy/Asthma Symptoms
- Irregular Bowel Movements
- Nocturia
- Bed Wetting
- Constipation
- Childhood Ear Infections
- Improved Immune Function
- Improved Sense of Wellness
Yes, chiropractic adjustments are a safe and effective way to support health in both infants and children and to alleviate many common – and not so common – childhood health issues. Parents who believe in a “wellness” model of care will regularly have their children adjusted to support and boost immunity, improve athletic performance, or address other specific medical conditions such as bed wetting, anxiety, ear infections, allergies/asthma, colic, irregular bowel movements, neck pain, or back pain.
The first two years of Chiropractic School is very similar to Medical School. However, chiropractors begin their concentrated spinal education and manual therapy training from day one. Upon entering the third year of study, medical students turn their attention to disease identification, pharmacology and basic surgical procedures, while chiropractic students focus more deeply on spinal and nervous system anatomy, physiology, and pathology with additional emphasis on examination and how to formulate a diagnosis.
Yes. Many chiropractors offer practice specializations such as Sports Injuries, Rehabilitation, Pediatrics, Nutrition, or other subspecialties.
While there are very few potential side effects from a chiropractic adjustment, some patients do experience temporary muscle or joint soreness following treatment. Very rarely, other side effects such as a bruise or injury from an aggressive adjustment could occur. A positive patient-doctor relationship will always include a thorough evaluation, opportunity to ask questions, and thoughtful consideration of a patient’s overall strength and wellbeing to help determine the proper course of treatment and level of intensity.
While anyone who is experiencing one of the previously mentioned conditions or injuries should visit a Chiropractor, many health-focused individuals receive regular chiropractic adjustments as part of a wellness lifestyle. These are people who understand the overall importance of keeping their spines and nervous systems healthy. Just as brushing one’s teeth prevents cavities and gum disease, chiropractic treatments prevent spinal disease and allow your body to maintain health at an optimal level.
