The bones, joints and muscles work together to support structure and movement, essential functions that are fundamental to maintaining our health throughout life. If one part of this complex support system becomes unhealthy, it can affect the whole. Attention to musculoskeletal health can pay dividends later in life by reducing the risk of pain and discomfort, as well as preventing more serious problems like osteoporosis.
Whether from sports injuries, car accidents, work related stresses or even simply tripping on a step, many people find that their musculoskeletal problems can be greatly improved with chiropractic care. While the mainstay of chiropractic treatment is spinal adjustment, chiropractors are also trained to adjust other joint in the body, including knees, feet and wrists. Spinal manipulations have been shown to directly and indirectly influence the nervous system, the master control system of the entire body.
Chiropractors are trained to examine the spine and joints for misalignments and other abnormalities. They can identify the source of the injury or condition and recommend specific stretches, exercises and therapeutic modalities to ease symptoms, accelerate healing and improve function.
Therapeutic modalities can include massage, ice packs, heat or cold therapy, traction, electrical stimulation (TENS), ultrasound and laser therapy. They can even help you learn healthier lifestyle habits such as diet, weight loss, exercise and stress management techniques.
Oftentimes, chiropractors will perform a neurological examination that tests the function of the motor and sensory nerves, testing reflexes and checking for numbness. In addition, the best Atlanta chiropractor can teach patients the proper way to perform daily activities in order to prevent injury and promote better ergonomics.
Regular adjustments take the unnecessary strain off of the nerves and bones of the spine, thereby allowing your body to relax. Many clients report that their sleep improves with chiropractic care and that they feel more energetic during the day.
In some cases, chiropractors can help you reduce the amount of medication you are taking for conditions such as asthma. Spinal misalignments that don’t cause a lot of pain might be interfering with the normal functioning of your lungs by blocking nerve impulses. Removing this interference allows the nerves to function normally, and the symptoms of asthma can be reduced or eliminated.
Misalignments in the spine might be contributing to gastrointestinal symptoms like acid reflux or diarrhea. Regular chiropractic care can help to restore normal digestive function, reducing the need for pharmaceuticals.
Many private insurance plans include coverage for chiropractic care, but the most significant benefit comes from working with in-network providers who have a contractual agreement with the provider to give a discounted rate. These providers will be listed in the patient directory on the insurance website.
It is important to tell your doctor about any spinal manipulation treatments you receive and your overall health history, particularly if you are taking blood thinners or have had a stroke or heart attack in the past. This will help to ensure that the chiropractor avoids certain types of manipulation techniques that can raise your risk of stroke.
