What is Chiropractic ?
Chiropractic is a health care profession that deals primarily with conditions related to the spine and nervous system. The profession stands alone as the leading form of alternative health care in the world. Chiropratic is all natural and does not rely on drugs and or surgery. The body has an inborn ability to heal itself if given the proper environment to do so. The brain and the spinal cord are the two organs to develop first in the human body. It should be no surprise that if they were developed first they must be important. Because they are so important they are very well protected. The brain is housed by the skull and the spine by vertebrae (bones). The brain is the body’s control center and sends signals out to every part of the body. This crucial information travels down the spinal cord and is carried out to the body by small wires, called nerves.
If all the bones are lined up properly then critical information should be sent and received successfully. If one or more of the vertebrae (bones) are misaligned this will slow down nerve flow and cause dysfunction to a particular part of the body depending on where the misaligned vertebrae (subluxations) are located.
Subluxations cause an abnormal stretch or pressure on the nerves exiting the spinal column called nerve interference. Nerve interference from a misaligned spine can lead to neck and back pain but, can also lead to more serious health conditions. Imagine the wire between your computer and printer was damaged? It could lead to problems with your printouts, right? Now imagine the nerve leading to your heart being irritated by spinal subluxation. This can be worse than an achy neck or back which is why it is important to have your spine checked for subluxations on a regular basis.
The Chiropractic Adjustment
A Chiropractor locates spinal misalignments or subluxations through the use of palpation (light touch) or X-ray. A doctor of chiropractic corrects these misaligned vertebrae through a procedure called a chiropractic adjustment. A highly specific low amplitude force will be applied to misaligned vertebrae to return them to their proper spinal position. Once a bone is put back into its normal position, pressure is released from the disc and surrounding structures. This will allow for the healing process to begin. It is necessary to receive several adjustments over a period of time to correct your particular condition. It is also important to take an active role in your health care. The doctor may recommend an at home stretching and/or strengthening program to help speed up and optimize gains made from your office visit.
Maintenance Care
It is important that once your spinal problem is corrected that you continue with maintenance care. Typically maintenance care is two times per month. This will keep your body functioning properly and reduce the chance of future flare-ups caused by everyday stresses and strains.
It’s like maintaining your car through regular oil changes and tune-ups to keep the car running smoothly. If your car breaks down and no longer works, you can always buy another car. What are you going to do if your body breaks down? It’s easier to maintain health than to restore it. Keep yourself healthy through regular chiropractic care. Call today for a complimentary consultation to see what chiropractic care can do for you!
Chiropractic Philosophy (4 Fundamental Principles):
- 1. The human body has the ability to heal itself if given the proper environment to do so.
- 2. The nervous system (brain & spinal cord) controls all body functions and processes.
- 3. The alignment and structure of the spine influences nerve function and nerve flow.
- 4. Abnormal spinal alignment and structure can affect the nervous system and affect your overall health.
What causes of Subluxations ?
Subluxations can begin as early as the birthing process. The combination of traction (manual/forceps) and twisting and bending the baby can easily cause subluxations. As the child begins to walk and crawl the repetitive stress of getting up and falling down can lead to subluxations as well. As we approach adulthood common causes include:
Poor posture, poor sleeping habits, bending and lifting, strenuous exercise, slip and falls, repetitive movements, sports, work related injuries, and automobile accidents to name a few. Early detection of spinal problems will help ensure a healthy return to the delicate balance of the spine and the body it serves. Beyond providing specific treatment for a particular condition, the doctor of chiropractic can help you in health maintenance by teaching you how to prevent spinal problems.
Subluxations can begin as early as the birthing process. The combination of traction (manual/forceps) and twisting and bending the baby can easily cause subluxations. As the child begins to walk and crawl the repetitive stress of getting up and falling down can lead to subluxations as well. As we approach adulthood common causes include:
Poor posture, poor sleeping habits, bending and lifting, strenuous exercise, slip and falls, repetitive movements, sports, work related injuries, and automobile accidents to name a few. Early detection of spinal problems will help ensure a healthy return to the delicate balance of the spine and the body it serves. Beyond providing specific treatment for a particular condition, the doctor of chiropractic can help you in health maintenance by teaching you how to prevent spinal problems.
To further enhance your knowledge of chiropractic and how to prevent injury and disease our office gives health class demonstrations twice a month. Call our office for dates and times and for more information.