How Does Chiropractic Care Work
Decoding Chiropractic Care: Unveiling the Natural Healing Process
Chiropractic doctors practice a natural, drug-free, and non-invasive approach to healthcare, relying on the body's innate ability to self-heal. But how does it work?
We Look at the Whole Picture
Similar to other healthcare providers, we follow a routine, gathering information about the patient's history, conducting physical examinations, and sometimes requesting additional analyses. However, chiropractors go beyond by analyzing the patient's structure, with a keen focus on the spine, and delving into lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, and stress management.
We Seek the Origin of the Problem
A thorough diagnosis includes identifying the probable cause of pain or discomfort. Chiropractors aim to eliminate the root cause, not just treat symptoms. It's akin to fixing a leaky roof instead of catching drips in a bucket indefinitely. By addressing misaligned vertebrae and irritated nerves, we aim to prevent recurring pain and discomfort.
We Fix the Origin of the Problem
Chiropractors differentiate themselves by their unique ability to diagnose and treat spinal subluxations. When a subluxation occurs, chiropractors can correct the misaligned bone through an adjustment, allowing it to return to its proper position. This adjustment, a quick thrust applied to a vertebra, enables the body to heal. While adjustments may produce an audible release of gas, the sensation is usually relieving, addressing not just symptoms but the underlying cause.
Five Components of Vertebral Subluxation Complex (VSC)
Bone Component: Misalignment, improper movement, or degeneration, narrowing spaces between bones, leading to nerve irritation or impingement.
Nerve Component: Disruption of normal energy flow along nerve fibers, distorting messages from the brain to tissues, resulting in various conditions like organ system dysfunction.
Muscular Component: Nerves control muscles that hold vertebrae in place. A subluxation can trigger muscle spasms, creating a cycle of irritation.
Soft Tissue Component: Misaligned vertebrae affect tendons, ligaments, blood supply, and other tissues, leading to permanent instability or restriction.
Chemical Component: Changes in body chemistry due to VSC, often pro-inflammatory, increasing inflammation in the affected area.
Untreated, the Vertebral Subluxation Complex can progress, causing chronic pain, inflammation, arthritis, muscle trigger points, bone spurs, loss of movement, muscle weakness, and spasm. Chiropractors, uniquely trained to detect, locate, and correct subluxations, emphasize the vital role of a well-functioning nervous system for true health.
Myths & Facts, Dispelling Common Myths
Myth #1 - Chiropractors are not real doctors.
Chiropractors hold a Doctorate of Chiropractic degree and are licensed healthcare providers. Chiropractic education is rigorous, with more classroom hours than medical counterparts. Chiropractors undergo clinical residencies and pass national and state board exams, akin to medical doctors. Chiropractors, like medical doctors, are commissioned as officers in the military.
Myth #2 - Medical doctors don't like chiropractors.
While historical opposition existed, the medical community's perception has evolved. Major studies support chiropractic effectiveness, leading to collaboration between chiropractors and medical doctors. Hospitals now have chiropractors on staff, fostering a more comfortable relationship.
Myth #3 - Once you start going to a chiropractor, you have to keep going for the rest of your life.
This myth is only partially true. Continued chiropractic care is akin to maintaining dental health or a regular exercise routine. Routine chiropractic care can help you feel better, move with more freedom, and stay healthier throughout your lifetime, providing ongoing benefits as part of your wellness lifestyle.
Interested in Experiencing Chiropractic Care?
Let our chiropractors help you find relief with chiropractic care and get you back to doing the things you love most. Please contact us today at 513-422-7776 to schedule an appointment with a chiropractor.
