Chiropractic care has gained much more acceptance over the last 20 years as a safe, effective way to heal musculoskeletal issues. It focuses on the relationship between the spine and nervous system. Unlike traditional medicine that often uses drugs and surgery, chiropractic relies on physical manipulation of the joints, soft tissues and muscles.
A common cause of pain is a spinal misalignment. This can be the result of an accident or the natural wear and tear from an active lifestyle. When the nerves in your back are sending incorrect signals, the entire body is affected. This is why regular chiropractic adjustments are essential.
The benefits of a chiropractic adjustment go beyond just eliminating pain. Visiting your chiropractor can help improve the function of the nervous, musculoskeletal and digestive systems. The nervous system is a huge part of your immune system. It controls how your cells work, so if there are any disruptions, it will affect how well the immune system fights off infection and disease. Visiting your chiropractor regularly will ensure that the nervous and spinal cord are communicating correctly, which will help your immune system keep your body healthy.
When the thoracic vertebrae, or middle back, are out of alignment, it can cause digestive issues such as heartburn, acid reflux and stomach ulcers. Regular chiropractic treatments can realign the thoracic spine and help alleviate these symptoms. Digestion breakdowns can also be a result of compressed nerves in the upper neck area, which can be caused by poor posture while sitting or sleeping. Changing these habits can help with digestion and headaches.
Chiropractic treatment is used by many active-duty and veteran military members to reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain. In fact, Congress passed legislation to include chiropractic services in the Department of Defense healthcare system.
A regular chiropractic treatment will also increase your energy levels and improve your mental health. Depression is a common symptom of chronic pain, and research has shown that a decrease in pain can significantly improve the quality of life for people with depression. When you are feeling better, your self-esteem will rise, and if you have a better posture, it can also give you more confidence.
Lastly, regular chiropractic treatments can help you save money on multiple medications and physician visits. Pain medication can be expensive, and the side effects of most prescriptions are not good for you. The best thing to do is visit your local Atlanta chiropractor to get regular treatments that will prevent future injuries and illnesses.
A chiropractor will utilize a variety of hands-on techniques to improve the function of your soft tissues, which are comprised of muscles, ligaments and tendons. These treatments may include ultrasound, trigger-point therapy, cold lasers and restorative stretches. The goal of these therapies is to improve the movement of your soft tissue, which will help your muscles and spine heal faster. In addition, you should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as this will help your muscles and joints recover from treatment.