All You Need to Know About Chiropractic Care

Back Issues, Chiropractic Care, Chiropractor Technology / Martin

What Is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is a form of health care that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. It involves the manual adjustment of a person’s spine, joints, and other body parts in order to correct any misalignments or restrictions that may be causing pain or discomfort. Although this type of treatment is often used to help with back pain, it can also be beneficial in treating neck pain, headaches, osteoarthritis/fibromyalgia and many other conditions. It is important to note that not everyone responds to chiropractic adjustments. A lot depends on your particular situation and a good Chiropractic Doctor will help guide and advise you during each and every chiropractic adjustment.

Chiropractic adjustment or manual manipulation

Chiropractic adjustments remain one of the most popular forms of non-invasive treatments for back pain each year. Millions of Americans, estimated at 22 million, visit chiropractors every year in search of relief from conditions like herniated disks, sciatica, and other chronic pain. The available research indicates that up to 35% of those who go see a licensed chiropractor for a chiropractic adjustment, do so because they are living with chronic back pain or have experienced an injury that has caused them immense discomfort.

Chiropractic care can usually provide effective relief without the need for expensive surgeries or dangerous medications. It is important to keep in mind, however, that whilst chiropractic adjustments can be beneficial to many people looking for fast and lasting relief from their symptoms, it is also wise to explore all other options before committing to any form of therapy as results will vary per person. Let’s take a look at who can benefit from chiropractic care and how it works.

Who Can Benefit from Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is often used to treat people suffering from back pain. However, it can also be effective for those dealing with neck pain, headaches, and osteoarthritis/fibromyalgia. In addition, regular chiropractic treatments may help improve overall joint function which could reduce the risk of injury caused by excessive strain on your muscles and joints.

Chiropractic treatment offers safe and effective relief from pain and limited mobility due to joint and tissue injury. By using hands-on techniques such as spinal manipulation and other alternative treatments, professional chiropractors can provide a safe alternative to more common pain relief procedures by stimulating the body’s natural healing process.

Spinal manipulation is an effective form of alternative treatment used to relieve pain and discomfort. While it can offer benefits to people with a wide range of medical conditions, it is important to note that those with certain medical issues should not undergo the procedure due to potential risks associated with it. People who suffer from herniated discs, for example, are strongly advised against the use of spinal manipulation as it can worsen the existing problem.

Additionally, spinal manipulation could lead to a spinal cord injury if not performed carefully by a skilled professional like a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic.

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Why Use a Chiropractor?

Chiropractors hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from an institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the same organization that issues accreditation for medical schools. It is therefore very important for individuals undergoing chiropractic adjustment to completely trust their healthcare provider when making medical decisions in order to ensure their safety.

Furthermore, with the guidance of a certified health professional, regular appointments may help to prevent further injury due to overuse or incorrect posture.

For those searching for safe and effective ways to reduce discomfort and improve overall wellness, chiropractic is an excellent form of treatment.

How Does Chiropractic Care Help?

Chiropractors use manual adjustment techniques to manipulate the vertebrae in order to restore proper alignment and mobility to joints restricted by tissue injury or inflammation. This helps relieve pressure on the nerves that are causing pain or discomfort.

In addition to manual adjustments once a physical exam has been performed, chiropractors may also provide nutritional counseling as well as exercise/rehabilitation programs designed specifically for each patient’s needs.

Treatment plans are designed to help patients return to therapeutic activities while experiencing pain relief. Manual adjustments, nutritional counseling and exercise/rehabilitation are utilized in order to restore the functional ability of an injured area and prevent further injury.

Furthermore, rehabilitation can be used as an adjunct or alternative form of treatment to reduce, stabilize or remove pain all together.

Ongoing assessment is crucial to provide the best possible outcomes. Through careful examination, providers can work with their patients to develop safe and effective treatment plans that may involve combination therapies for positive results.

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Is Chiropractic treatment effective?

Chiropractic care has become an increasingly popular form of pain management and medical treatment and numerous studies have demonstrated its efficacy.

A wide range of physical ailments, including neck pain, headaches, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia can all be positively impacted by chiropractic care. This is accomplished through a combination of manual therapy such as spinal manipulations, massage therapy, cold laser, spinal decompression tables, and exercises designed to recreate proper skeletal alignment, boost mobility and provide lasting relief from the physical discomfort associated with these conditions.

Receiving the skillful care of an experienced chiropractor can not only reduce your suffering in the present moment but can also help you live a healthier lifestyle into the future.

Potential Risks Associated With Chiropractic Care

Although chiropractic care is generally safe when performed correctly by an experienced practitioner, there are some potential risks associated with this type of treatment including worsening herniated discs or causing a spinal cord injury in some cases.

Therefore, it’s important to consult with your doctor before seeking out chiropractic care if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or prior spinal injuries.

Conclusion:

As you can see, there are many potential benefits associated with chiropractic care including relief from back pain as well as improved joint mobility which could reduce the risk of further injury caused by excessive strain on your muscles and joints.

However, like any medical procedure there are risks involved. So, it is important to talk with your primary care physician before seeking out chiropractic care if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or prior spinal injuries. For those who do decide to give it a try though, chiropractic care could provide lasting relief from chronic pain without the need for more invasive treatments such as surgery or medication.

If you are experiencing musculoskeletal pain, it may be time to consider seeing a chiropractor for a physical exam, whether you are experiencing minor aches, tight muscles, or need a chiropractic adjustment for joint pain of which you are already aware. Chiropractic care can provide lasting relief from chronic pain and restore joint mobility without the need for more invasive treatments such as surgery or medication. Contact Anew Chiro chiropractor in The Woodlands, Texas today to schedule an appointment.

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Specific Exercises for Lower Back Muscle Strain

Back Issues, Chiropractor Exercises / Martin

What are some Exercises for Lower Back Muscle Strain?

The muscles in the lower back/lumbar, abdomen, buttocks, and hips, all help to support and stabilize the spine. It’s important to keep these muscles strong through strengthening exercises. Strong lumbar region muscles will help lessen the chance of experiencing a lower back injury or pulled back muscle.

Besides aerobic conditioning, a back exercise plan will consist of targeting the lower back muscles, as well as the muscles in the abdomen, hips, and pelvis. By directly targeting these muscle groups with strengthening exercises, your lower back will be more able to resist a pulled muscle in the lower back due to jarring impacts, or overuse injuries involving the lumbar spine.

Certainly it’s important to consider your fitness level and the injury diagnosis in order to prescribe an exercise program to deal specifically with the back injury you sustain.

Stretching Exercises for the Lower Back

The added stress and strain from stiff back muscles put additional stress on the spine’s natural movement. By stretching the lower back and the muscles in your lower body you can alleviate this tension and reduce pain in the spine

Here are some of the recommended stretching exercises to reduce stress on the lower back muscles;

Hip flexor stretch.
- Kneel on one knee (use a towel for cushioning if needed)
- With a bent knee, put your foot in front of you. You may need to place your hand on your knee for better balance.
- Place your opposite hand on the opposite hip and avoid bending over at the waist. Try to ensure that you keep your core abdominal muscles tight while maintaining your back straight.
- Now lean slightly forward and gradually add more body weight on the front bent leg. You should definitely feel your thigh stretching.
- Try to hold for 20 to 30 seconds
- Switch legs and repeat for three to five times as your pain level allows.
Lower back muscle stretch.
- Lie on your back and bring your knees and chin towards your chest.
- Feel the slight pull on the muscles in the neck, shoulders and torso.
- Hold and stretch for 20 seconds and repeat three to five times
- Remember to breathe normally
Hamstring stretch.
- Lie on the floor near a wall
- Raise your leg and place your heel against the wall with a slight bend at the knee
- Slowly straighten your leg until you feel the back of your thigh stretch
- Hold for 20 to 30 seconds
- Repeat with the other leg and do each leg three to five times depending on your level of flexibility

While you do these stretching exercises, please remember to breathe deeply as this helps to relieve muscle tension. Each stretch should be held long enough to loosen tight muscles, at least 20 seconds, and repeated three to five times. While you’re stretching, pay close attention to your body, as stretching should not hurt. If you’re causing yourself more pain while stretching, then stop, or limit the number of repetitions of each exercise.

Strengthening Exercises for Low Back Pain

Tai Chi, Yoga, and Pilates are common recommendations for types of hobbies or activities that will help strengthen lower back muscles and build core muscle strength.

Working with a healthcare professional to create a customized exercise program for your particular fitness level is recommended, especially if you are rehabilitating a lower back injury.

The McKenzie method and the dynamic lumbar stabilization method are two strengthening exercise programs that are used to help rehabilitate a lower back injury. The McKenzie method focuses more on helping to lessen musculoskeletal pain through altering how the body moves naturally. On the other hand, the dynamic lumbar stabilization method attempts to find a neutral or natural spine position so that there is healthy alignment between the spine and associated muscle groups. This method is used to train the back to naturally hold a correct posture on its own.

Maintaining a healthy body free from pulled muscles, especially lower back strain, takes incorporating an exercise program and making it a part of your lifestyle. That is why it is important to find an exercise program that you enjoy and is comfortable enough for you to do on a regular basis.

Low-Impact Aerobic Exercises

Aerobic exercise can be one of the most beneficial rehabilitation methods you can employ, especially after a back muscle injury as it helps to create a healthy blood flow moving oxygen and nutrients through your body to those injured muscles.

Here are some examples of low-impact aerobic exercises to speed recovery:

Walking is a great low impact aerobic exercise that does not need any specialized equipment and can be done anywhere. Try to walk at least 5 minutes initially at a brisk pace, building up to 30 minutes a day.
Cycling can be a fantastic low impact aerobic exercise to improve muscle strength and flexibility in the hips, back, and legs as long as you ride on flat terrain, or use a stationary cycle with adequate back support like a recumbent exercise cycle.
Swimming or water aerobics is a cool way to get your blood flowing to your entire body while engaging the muscles that have been damaged in a gradually and non impactful way. This is one of the lowest risk methods of actively engaging multiple parts of your body using the resistance of the water as a low impact aerobic exercise that elevates your heart rate while minimizing potential jarring to your lower back strain.

It is important to keep in mind that you should try to get your heart rate elevated for at least 20 minutes or more, at least three or four times per week, in order for to get the most out of these types of aerobic exercises. Engaging in any exercise program can cause fatigue or soreness, but should not cause more pain. If your pain increases during exercise, you should stop, or at least decrease the time or intensity of your workout. You can attempt shorter periods of exercise, and then gradually build up to 20 minutes or more as your pain allows.

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Activator Method Chiropractic Technique

Chiropractor Technology / Martin

Activator Tool for Spinal Manipulation

While most people are very familiar with spinal manipulations or spinal adjustments, many people are not aware of another type of manual manipulation treatment that is used by chiropractors called the Activator Method. The Activator Method uses a specialized hand held adjusting tool and is used to treat all types of back and neck pain as well as pain in the extremities. This activator adjusting instrument is an alternative to the widely used diversified technique of high velocity, low amplitude thrust or HVLA thrust. The diversified technique involves targeting one joint at a time with a short low-amplitude, quick/high velocity thrust.

The activator adjusting instrument is utilized to deliver quick and low force impulses to spinal joints (and other joints) with the purpose of restoring normal function to those joints. The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners reports that this is one of the most common therapeutic treatments used by chiropractors, second only to the diversified technique. About half of all American chiropractors use the activator method in their clinics.

What is the Activator Method Technique?

The activator adjusting instrument is a spring loaded handheld instrument which allows chiropractors to employ quick low force impulses in specific spots. Two advantages of the Activator Method are as follows:

The most obvious advantage is that you can repeat a very controlled force that does not put the joint in any type of bending or twisting situation.
Also, the activator instrument is so fast that the body does not have time to tense or resist the treatment. Since the muscles don’t have time to react or tense up, this increases the effectiveness of the treatment.

Some of the older models that are on the market are actually mechanically spring loaded. However, there are newer models that are cordless and the spring is powered electronically.

How does the Activator Method work?

The chiropractor will have you lie face down on the table and then he’ll use specific tests, including checking for any differences in leg lengths. By checking for leg length discrepancies, they are more likely to identify which spinal or extremity joints need to be adjusted due to faulty body mechanics or any abnormal neurological reflexes.

Evidence from research suggests that the hand held Activator is able to specifically treat a small area, such as a single vertebrae, making it a very effective tool in spinal adjustments.

Is Leg Length Evaluation always used in the Activator Method?

Although chiropractors commonly use the leg length evaluation when they are going to use this handheld instrument, many rely on a physical examination approach. During the physical examination, they will use palpation (pressing on the surface of the body to feel the tissues underneath) of the spine and other areas to determine where they will apply the Activator instrument.

Why is an Activator Method used over other techniques?

One of the greatest advantages of using an activator instrument, is that it has such a small tip.The small surface area of the tip makes it ideal for not only specifically targeting spinal joints, but works well on extremities like the knees, elbows, wrists, and even the jaw. Also, as mentioned above, this instrument acts quickly and does not give the body or muscles time to tense up prior to the adjustment taking place.

How Effective is the Activator Method Treatment?

Traditionally, chiropractors are very well versed in applying spinal manipulation as a manual adjustment technique and research shows that 98% of chiropractors use the HVLA diversified technique in their practices. The activator method is not necessarily intended to replace manual adjustments such as the diversified technique, but have been developed to be used in specific instances when they need a smaller surface area to deliver a quick thrust to a small joint. It is a complementary manual adjustment technique benefiting patients globally, especially those that are not keen on the turning and tugging that can take place during manual manipulations.

Is The Activator Method Safe?

Although the activator is widely used amongst chiropractors, and has been around since the 1970s, it is not as well known as the more traditional manual manipulation methods, despite being approved by the FDA since 1997. Since it has been approved by the FDA, the Activator adjustment method has been deemed safe to use for spinal realignment and adjustments.

Research shows that the activator adjustment method works as well as traditional adjustment methods, and is safe for use by chiropractors trained and certified in the Activator method. This certification requires that the Chiropractic Doctor be instructed in the Activator Method Chiropractic Adjustment technique and receive at least a proficiency rating in order to be able to use the method in their practice.

While there are more studies and research going on regarding this type of treatment, it’s very important to visit a Chiropractic Doctor who is specifically trained in this method and has the required certification in the activator adjustment method.

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The physical and mental health benefits of Acupuncture

Acupuncture / Martin

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body to stimulate, relax, reduce, release and regulate your body by stimulating the central nervous system. This triggers the release of neurotransmitters which aid in reducing pain, relaxing muscles, and increasing circulation to alleviate sore muscles.

Additionally, acupuncture is non-invasive and has been found to produce long-lasting results for patients suffering from various ailments such as arthritis, migraines, and chronic joint conditions.

Does Acupuncture work?

Although Acupuncture is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, recent research conducted by the NIH and reported in Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that acupuncture is a successful form of therapy either as an independent treatment or combined with traditional therapies to manage various conditions. These include:

Low back pain/spinal cord

Headaches

Osteoarthritis

Tennis elbow

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Fibromyalgia

Nausea caused by surgical anesthesia and cancer chemotherapy

Dental pain after surgery

Addiction

Menstrual cramps

Myofascial pain

Asthma

Stroke rehabilitation

Sore muscles

According to the renowned Mayo Clinic, acupuncture can help alleviate aches and pains caused by numerous afflictions. Specifically, they highlighted that this ancient form of healing is used to address the discomfort associated with a myriad of diseases and conditions such as the following

Chemotherapy-induced and postoperative nausea and vomiting

Tension headaches and migraines

Labor pain

Neck pain

Respiratory disorders, such as allergic rhinitis

What certifications should a doctor or acupuncturist hold?

When deciding which acupuncture practitioner to use, make sure you see a doctor accredited by a national institute. While requirements vary by state, chiropractors can become certified in acupuncture by pursuing diplomate status through the American Board of Chiropractic Acupuncture (DABCA). This requires passage of the DABCA exam, which is offered on an annual basis and includes written and oral portions. Each state also has different clinical education and continuing education requirements.

How Does Acupuncture work?

Through the use of acupuncture needles strategically placed on various points along the body’s meridian pathways, acupuncturists can stimulate the body’s natural healing response. This stimulation encourages increased blood flow to nourish affected areas, promotes cell regeneration, and repairs tissues injured or weakened by disease or injury.

Does acupuncture help reduce tension and stress?

Acupuncture is a non-invasive technique used to stimulate pressure points in the body to relax and reduce tension. Upon stimulation of these acupoints, specific chemicals are released including neurotransmitters and hormones that stimulate the body’s own regulation system.

What are other forms of stimulation used instead of acupuncture?

Different types of acupuncture treatments can bring about different results, such as releasing endorphins to alleviate pain and regulate stress levels; stimulating the production of collagen for better skin health; or balancing out hormones and brain chemistry.

Other forms of stimulation are sometimes used over the acupuncture points, such as the following:

Suction (cupping)

Heat (moxibustion)

Pressure (acupressure)

Friction

Impulses of electromagnetic energy

What chemicals are released during acupuncture?

Acupuncture has several healing properties, but some of its more intriguing effects occur on the physiological level.

Several specific chemicals are released when needles are inserted into particular pressure points throughout the body. beta-endorphins are released which act as feel-good hormones, reducing cortisol levels and improving overall emotional well being.

Acetylcholine is released which helps to reduce inflammation, while serotonin and melatonin help with pain relief and improve the quality of sleep. Together these various chemicals contribute to the body’s overall healing process, making acupuncture an ideal complementary therapy for many conditions.

Furthermore, adenosine, a hormone involved in pain regulation, is also released – allowing the body to relax and reducing overall stress.

Lastly, oxytocin is present during an acupuncture session, promoting a feeling of safety and trust between both patient and practitioner. Not only does acupuncture encourage physical healing by resetting vital balance systems in the body; it produces long-lasting mental health benefits as well.

Is Acupuncture painful?

When people think of acupuncture, they may immediately associate it with pain. In reality, though, this traditional Chinese medical treatment can be surprisingly painless. The thin needles used in acupuncture are FDA-approved and specifically designed to cause minimal discomfort during insertion.

When a patient lies down on the treatment table, the practitioner ensures that the area is warm and relaxed before carefully inserting the needles into specific points along the body. This can create an endorphin rush and a slight tingling or heaviness sensation that might occur at certain pressure points.

For patients who do feel moderate discomfort when receiving acupuncture treatments, it is often because their bodies have restricted blood flow and need to be released for healing to occur; however, once they have experienced successful acupuncture sessions with their practitioner, even these patients will generally find them very pleasant in comparison with other treatment methods.

Is acupuncture treatment right for me?

Acupuncture is an excellent choice for individuals who are looking for a safe and natural way to reduce pain, and inflammation and improve their overall mental health. With its proven ability to help with many physical ailments like muscle tension as well as mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, it’s become increasingly popular among people seeking holistic ways to address their medical concerns.

While acupuncture has been known to provide relief from a variety of physical ailments ranging from acute pain management due to injury or surgery recovery all way through chronic illnesses such as fibromyalgia or arthritis – anyone considering starting an acupuncture treatment plan should always consult with their healthcare professional first before trying out any new therapy program so that any contraindications can be discussed beforehand in order ensure maximum safety during treatments session(s).

How long does it take to feel the effects of Acupuncture?

The effects of acupuncture can be felt almost immediately after the procedure. Patients often experience decreased pain, improved range of motion and flexibility, better sleep, and a feeling of overall relaxation.

Does acupuncture help with mental health issues?

For those suffering from chronic conditions like migraines, anxiety, or depression, acupuncture can be a valuable tool in managing symptoms without the use of medications or other invasive treatments.

Research shows that acupuncture may be especially effective as a tool to manage symptoms associated with mental health issues.

Studies have found that acupuncture can produce calming effects by reducing anxiety levels and helping individuals better cope with anxiety or stressful situations. Additionally, this form of treatment can help relieve some of the physical pain felt by those suffering from chronic headaches and migraines. Overall, if used correctly, acupuncture can be beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.

Visit Anew Chiro for your Acupuncture treatments

If you want to feel better both mentally and physically, come visit Anew Chiro Chiropractor in The Woodlands Texas. We offer a safe and natural solution that can reduce pain, and inflammation, and enhance your mental health with a treatment plan that includes acupuncture! With over 20 years of experience as a certified acupuncture doctor, Dr. LeBouef is well-equipped to provide customized treatments to help alleviate your symptoms and optimize your well-being. Schedule your appointment today and experience the healing power of acupuncture!

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What is a chiropractic adjustment?

Back Issues, Chiropractic Care / Martin

Who is a chiropractor?

A chiropractor is a healthcare professional that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders. Chiropractors are highly trained medical professionals who specialize in using manually-applied methods to diagnose and treat the musculoskeletal system, including muscles and the spine. But they don’t just treat muscles – chiropractors also use various manipulation techniques such as joint mobilization and stabilization along with soft tissue work to improve posture and restore movement during a chiropractic treatment.

A chiropractor works with patients to determine appropriate treatment plans based on an individual’s needs, lifestyle, and environment, with the goal of helping them reduce stiffness, increase mobility, reduce inflammation, strengthen joints and muscles, and reduce stress. Chiropractic care can help alleviate pain, improve function and restore range of motion.

Chiropractors also work on lifestyle modification through providing advice on posture, exercise, diet and other healthy habits that can improve well-being and mental health.

Furthermore, they work with medical doctors to make referrals when needed for additional treatments such as physical therapy.

With these comprehensive services, chiropractors offer a holistic approach to restoring health for many people.

What does a Chiropractor do?

Chiropractors specialize in helping people suffering from musculoskeletal issues or sports injuries, such as neck pain and headaches, as well as other general strains on the body.

Many chiropractors incorporate traditional adjustments to hands-on manipulation of joints and soft-tissue therapy to help their patients recover.

Additionally, many chiropractors advise their patients in rehabilitative exercises or stretches that promote mobility, flexibility and overall strength.

They may also use joint bracing or kinesio taping to help support the joints, muscles, or tendons that have been injured or strained.

Lastly, many chiropractors will refer their patients to experts like physiotherapists, massage therapists, and nutritionists for further optimization of treatment outcomes.

All of this is designed to restore movement and reduce pain in order for the patient to reach optimal health!

What does a chiropractic adjustment treat/manage?

Chiropractic adjustments are a common form of manual therapy used to treat musculoskeletal pain and other conditions.

Through specific manipulation of the joints, chiropractic adjustment helps relieve tension from tight muscles, increase mobility, improve postural functioning and aid in spinal alignment.

When performed by a licensed practitioner, this form of treatment is effective in managing chronic pain and restoring functionality to areas of discomfort.

Furthermore, research suggests that chiropractic treatments can have positive effects on issues ranging from migraines to vertigo, as well as stomach and digestive disorders.

Ultimately, a chiropractic adjustment can be a helpful tool for managing a variety of physical ailments both acute and long-term in nature.

Why is a chiropractic adjustment done?

A chiropractic adjustment, otherwise known as a spinal manipulation, is a procedure that helps to reduce pain and restore normal movement of the spine or other joints.

This is done by releasing the pressure on joints and muscles, relieving the nerve inflammation that can occur when bones in the spine are out of alignment.

The adjustment also helps to relieve stress on soft tissues to reduce pain while increasing joint mobility and reducing tightness in the affected area.

Ultimately, a chiropractic adjustment assists with returning the body to its optimal physical functioning by freeing it of pain and restrictions.

How common are chiropractic adjustments?

Chiropractic adjustments are becoming increasingly widespread as more people become aware of the many positive benefits they can provide.

A growing trend towards holistic healthcare is one factor encouraging this trend, but so too is the increasing accessibility of these services, which has arisen both due to an increased availability of resources in communities as well as an increased online presence among providers.

As a result, more people than ever are comfortable seeking out chiropractic services to find relief from a variety of physical ailments.

Ultimately, the convenience and effectiveness that comes with regular adjustments is driving this trend forward, helping make it harder than ever before for individuals to ignore the opportunities chiropractic care offers.

Who can get a chiropractic adjustment?

While it is true that everyone can benefit from chiropractic adjustments, certain population groups have specific needs and conditions that make regular visits to a chiropractor essential.

These include athletes needing relief from fatigue due to rigorous training and competition, pregnant women with back pain or those who seek support for their pregnancy journey, seniors dealing with the aches and pains that come with age, infants suffering from colic or digestive issues, and any person experiencing neck pain, headaches, sciatica or stiffness in their joints.

Through the non-invasive application of different therapies such as manual manipulation, electrical muscle stimulation or exercise therapy, adjustments begin to provide immediate relief while also strengthening parts of the body to help prevent future injury.

What happens before a chiropractic adjustment?

Before a chiropractic adjustment, the patient is typically asked to provide information about their medical history, along with any relevant details about the current injury. Afterward, the chiropractor conducts an examination to assess the patient’s condition including their neurological and orthopedic health. This often includes range of motion tests, palpation of soft tissue and joints, x-rays or other imaging tests if required.

Once that is complete, the chiropractor forms a diagnosis and treatment plan that will be used as a guide during the adjustment session.

The goal of this plan is to help restore mobility in problem areas and correct misalignments in the spine along with any other related issues.

What happens during a chiropractic adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment involves the use of highly specific, gentle manipulations of the spine and surrounding muscles in order to relieve pain, restore mobility, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health.

During a chiropractic session, a trained professional applies manual thrusts along or near the joints. This stimulates nerves and releases endorphins into the bloodstream which helps to relax tight muscles and relieves tension that can often be causing discomfort.

By maintaining the structural balance of the body’s nervous system, it helps correct imbalances that can be caused from poor posture, stress or injury.

It is essential for restoring good health without resorting to drugs or surgery and can ultimately improve your lifestyle in general.

What is the popping sound I hear during a chiropractic adjustment?

The gas-release popping sound heard during a chiropractic adjustment can be intimidating, but it is simply the sound of gas being released from the joints as they are adjusted by the chiropractor.

Contrary to popular belief, this sound is often quite harmless and is simply a sign that the joint has been successfully adjusted.

In fact, many people find that the gas release sound relieves them of pain or tension associated with their chiropractor visit. So, don’t be intimidated – the gas-release popping sound you hear during a chiropractic adjustment might just mean relief for you!

Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt?

Many people worry that a chiropractic adjustment will be painful, but this isn’t usually the case. Receiving an adjustment from a professional chiropractor is typically comfortable and can even offer relief.

After diagnosing the problem and determining the best approach to take, the chiropractor will gently move your joint into a new position with little to no pain. This motion helps reduce stress on your joints and nerves, relieving muscle tension and promoting better function of the musculoskeletal system.

There are some adjustments that may cause little discomfort, but this should only last for a fraction of a second before you start feeling relieved.

What happens after a chiropractic adjustment?

After a chiropractic adjustment, mild soreness may occur, but this should quickly pass with relieving and encouraging results, and you should feel very little soreness after 24 hours. Your chiropractor might recommend “homework” after an adjustment which might include:

Exercises
Stretches
Proper ergonomics for improving posture
Icing/heat therapy
Nutrition, diet, weight or general health advice
Methods to manage stress and relax muscles

What are the benefits of chiropractic care?

On-going treatments will often result in pain relief (which can mean less pain medication), improved range of motion, and reduced levels of tension. This can even result in enhanced physical performance, an increase in activities that were previously too painful to comfortably do before. Thus, chiropractic adjustments are not just a temporary relief from pain but also help heal your body to make it less likely that pain and tension will return.

Additionally, these treatments can reduce inflammation and swelling while maintaining the body’s natural alignment so individuals can experience a higher quality of life.

What if I am not sure about using a Chiropractor?

For those who are looking for pain relief through alternative forms of treatment, seeking chiropractic adjustments may be the perfect solution. Many patients report feeling immediate relief from their pain after visiting a chiropractor, however some may experience minor, temporary post-treatment discomfort. If you’re wondering whether seeing a chiropractor could be beneficial to your situation or would like advice on other forms of care, it is important to speak with your primary care provider. They are in the best position to provide you with guidance and help create a plan for managing your symptoms, pain disorders, and concerns.

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March 2023