Understanding How Chiropractic Care Works

Chiropractor

Chiropractic care from an experienced chiropractor, like from Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, can benefit a number of people for a variety of problems. From back and neck pain to poor posture, chiropractic focuses on creating uninterrupted pathways between joints. It can help build up the immune system and improve everyday functioning, including mood and attitude, but there are many things it cannot do. Here is how chiropractic care works and what it is specifically for.

Types of Chiropractic Care

Most patients will encounter chiropractic adjustments when they see a chiropractor. Adjustments are movements and pressure applied to joints that are misaligned or causing pain. Spinal manipulation is the most common form of adjustment, which involves thrusting movements to pop vertebrae back into proper alignment. Other types of care include heat and cold applications, massages, diet changes and exercises.

Problems Treated by Chiropractic Care

While chiropractors generally work with the spine and back to relieve pain, other areas of the body can benefit from treatments, such as:

  • Lower back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Knee pain
  • Shoulder pain
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Hip pain
  • Joint stiffness
  • Whiplash, or other problems following an accident
  • Joint immobility

These are all pain-related issues that can be targeted by a chiropractor and gradually worked out over time. Many patients continue seeing a chiropractor after their first visit since results improve over multiple appointments.

Other Problems

In addition to direct pain, chiropractic care has been proven to improve overall health by boosting the immune and nervous systems. Children who see a chiropractor often experience improved moods and attitudes and get a better night’s sleep.

Safety Concerns 

Many people wonder whether chiropractic care is safe, and multiple studies have been carried out to see how it compares to other medical treatments. The good news is that chiropractic is one of the lowest-risk treatments available for severe pain. This may appeal to patients who are not yet ready to go onto medications or undergo major surgeries to correct an issue. Best of all, chiropractic care is not something you must continue to receive for the rest of your life once you’ve started. If you see excellent results after a certain time, chiropractic care may no longer be needed; but you can return to it if old pain arises again.

If you think a chiropractor might be able to help with your pain, make a consultation appointment to discuss your situation, or ask your doctor. Getting a better understanding of chiropractic can help you make an informed decision on how to best address your pain.

How Chiropractors Adjust Patients Differently

Chiropractor

No two people have the same bodies or physical challenges. Likewise, the way that health care professionals treat patients will vary from person to person. If you’re having back problems, you can turn to a chiropractor for relief. The chiropractor will use a technique called an adjustment to realign your spine and promote healing throughout your body. It’s helpful to understand how this process works.

What Is an Adjustment?

Going to the chiropractor is much more than have someone pop your back and send you on your way. An adjustment is a process where the chiropractor manipulates your spine to put it in the correct place. The chiropractor will have you lie on a table, either on your side or stomach. The doctor then places his or her hands on your back. Using sudden, controlled force, the chiropractor will adjust your spine. The frequency of these adjustment visits will depend on the severity of your issue and other health factors.

What Are the Benefits? 

People of all types can see a chiropractor for an adjustment. The process not only helps relieve back pain but can reduce irritation and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, arms, legs, hands and feet. People with headaches and chronic migraines also get adjustments. These treatments can help a person have better flexibility, mobility and range of motion.

Customizing the Adjustments

Not all adjustments will look the same. The chiropractor will be mindful of unique situations that patients may have. For example, a pregnant patient will have different challenges and needs than other people. In these cases, the chiropractor may place a pillow or cushion under the patient. The doctor may also adjust the level of the table. Instead of lying on her stomach, the woman will lie on her side or sit in a chair. Younger, smaller patients will also require less pressure and force on the back from the adjustment. The chiropractor may also use a tool to manipulate the spine. Patients should keep in mind that any time they feel pain during the adjustment that they should inform the chiropractor. It is always best to share any concerns or ask questions before the adjustment takes place.

If your back or other joints are hurting, get help sooner than later. These pains can affect your quality of life. Luckily, relief is available through chiropractic adjustments, regardless of your age, body type or any other factors.

Reach out to a Chiropractor, like the chiropractors at Mid-atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic to make an appointment or for further assistance.

Serving the communities of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Durham, Hillsborough, and the rest of the NC Triangle

205 Providence Rd. Chapel Hill NC 27514 | Phone: (919) 929-1400

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