What if we told you that headaches, backaches, or joint pain are common, but nowhere near normal. Would you think twice? Here at Corrective Chiropractic, people’s norms are changing for the better and for the long haul because of chiropractic adjustments! So let’s take a look at how chiropractic care works.

How Does Chiropractic Work?

As Chiropractors, our entire profession is built upon the basic principle that the body has the incredible, natural ability to heal itself (under the right conditions). Our job is to help create an environment that helps this inner-healing process. Through specific chiropractic adjustments, you allow your body to be put in the best position to heal itself! Why would you want to get chiropractic adjustments?

Why Get Chiropractic Adjustments?

The purpose of chiropractic care is not the treatment of conditions or disease.  It is the restoration of normal body function. We reduce stress-related interference to the nervous system enhancing overall body function. All the systems of the body depend on the optimal function of the nervous system. This includes the circulatory, digestive, hormonal, glandular, immunological, muscular, reproductive, respiratory, and skeletal systems. Let’s look at some benefits of chiropractic care.

What are the Benefits of Chiropractic?

It’s hard to find any other profession on the planet that can prevent neuromuscular-based diseases like chiropractic can. That is why I’ve been personally getting adjusted for over 11 years now. I recommend my patients, friends, and family members to do the same. But don’t just take my word for it! Below you’ll find evidence from medical research studies, systematic reviews, and even case studies supporting 5 of the top benefits of chiropractic adjustments!

1. Low Back and Neck Pain:

In a study* conducted to test the effectiveness of different approaches for treating neck pain 272 participants were divided into three groups. Group 1 received spinal manipulative therapy from a doctor of chiropractic (DC).  Pain medications (over-the-counter pain relievers, narcotics and muscle relaxants) were received by group 2. The last group only followed at-home exercise recommendations. After 12 weeks, about 57% of those who met with DCs, and about 48% of those who exercised, reported at least a 75% reduction in pain. Of the group of people who took pain medication only 33% reported decreased pain. After one year, approximately 53%  of the two drug-free groups (chiropractic and exercise) continued to report at least a 75% reduction in pain. Only 38% of those who only took medication experienced a reduction in pain.

*funded by NIH’s National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

2. Headaches (Tension and Migraine)

A group trial found that 22% of people who had chiropractic treatment saw the number of headache attacks drop by 90%. In that same study, 49% said they had a significant reduction in pain intensity. Few interventions can initiate headache relief naturally, without the risks of taking drugs long-term, like chiropractic adjustments can.

3. Blood Pressure

In 2007, George Bakris* , published a study with a team of researchers in the Human Journal of Hypertension. This study showed that one chiropractic adjustment had the same effect as two blood pressure-lowering drugs. The effects of just one chiropractic adjustment lasted more than six months! Compared to the placebo-treated patients, those who got the real procedure saw an average 14 mm Hg greater drop in systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure count) and an average 8 mm Hg greater drop in diastolic blood pressure (the bottom blood pressure number).

*the world expert on hypertension

4. Athletic Performance

There is good reason why professional athletes, including Michael Phelps, Jerry Rice and Joe Montana, have made a point to regularly be treated by chiropractors.  Over 50% of NFL teams have a chiropractor on staff. One of the most overlooked aspects of chiropractic care is that it enhances functionality in everyday life,  including athletic performance. Studies have shown that when it comes to supporting recovery and improving physical performance, chiropractic adjustments are helpful because they:

• Reduce inflammatory cytokines
• Boost the immune system
• Enhance pulmonary function
• Decrease mental and oxidative stress
• Relieve muscle tension
• And can naturally increase energy levels

Ultimately, our goal is to help reduce inflammation, enhance joint function and reduce pain. Adjustments will also help improve range of motion, minimize recovery time, and maximize athletic performance.

5. Colic, Acid Reflux, & Ear Infections in Children

Why are chiropractic adjustments helpful in these situations? The reasons for this vary, but there is one common theme. Nerves located in the gut and brain are quite sensitive to neurological insult caused by vertebral subluxations. By realigning the spine and reducing pressure placed on certain nerves, the gut-brain connection is improved. This works the same way in both children and adults. A healthier, “happier” gut at any age can help increase immune function. A healthy gut will also reduce inflammation and reduce pain in various parts of the body.

There you have it! The benefits mentioned above might draw the most patients to visit chiropractors. There are also many more reasons why chiropractic care is such a valuable treatment approach. Additional benefits of chiropractic adjustments include helping to treat:

• Vertigo & dizziness
• Bowel regularity
• Improved mental clarity
• ADHD
• Neck pain
• Arthritis and joint pain
• Scoliosis
• Asthma
• Blood pressure
• Healthy pregnancy
• Organ function
• Surgery prevention