Pain is the body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Sometimes pain is a result of an injury that won’t heal or it may be caused by stress. Regardless of the cause, the body is always trying to warn you to pay attention to what it needs so that it can heal itself. If you don’t listen to your body, chronic conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic headaches or other health concerns can set in. Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to pain relief that can help heal the body from the inside out.
Whether you’re dealing with a herniated disc in your back or a neck that aches from sitting too long at work, chiropractors are trained to assess your condition and develop a treatment plan for you. They’ll use a variety of treatments, such as spinal manipulation, massage therapy, hot and cold therapy, stretches and traction. They can also provide nutritional counseling and exercise recommendations.
The most well-known type of chiropractic treatment is manual manipulation of the spine. This involves moving a joint in the back to its end of range, followed by a quick thrust that is sometimes referred to as an “adjustment.” Some people might be achy or stiff for a few days after their adjustment, but this should subside as the body adjusts.
Many chiropractors utilize therapeutic modalities, such as ultrasound and electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), to ease pain and promote healing. These modalities reduce inflammation, improve circulation and relax muscles. They can be especially effective for herniated discs in the neck and back, as they can help stretch and loosen tight muscles around the affected area.
Another type of chiropractic treatment is called trigger point therapy. This involves inserting thin needles into tight muscles to relieve tension and reduce inflammation. In addition, the chiropractor might use hot and cold therapy to increase blood flow to the area, reducing swelling and inflammation.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, chiropractic treatment can help injuries heal more quickly. For one thing, it helps the spine to stay in better alignment, which has been shown to be essential to good overall health. It’s also possible that the treatment can reduce a patient’s dependence on prescription medications for pain.
Studies have shown that regular chiropractic care can improve the symptoms of fibromyalgia, including fatigue and pain in joints, muscles and soft tissue. The researchers found that patients saw a significant decrease in fibromyalgia symptoms after only 15 chiropractic sessions.
Besides treating pain and discomfort, chiropractors are also known to help with digestive issues such as heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome. This is because a number of these problems stem from compressed nerves or improper spine positioning. They can also help with headaches, as the majority of headaches are linked to poor posture and misalignment. Adding chiropractic to your routine can increase your awareness of how your body functions, and can help you take control of the way you live your life.
When seeking a family chiropractor in Atlanta, it’s important to look for a practitioner or clinic that meets certain criteria. Remember to schedule an initial consultation with the chiropractor to discuss your condition, treatment options, and any questions or concerns you may have. This will give you a better sense of whether the chiropractor aligns with your expectations for quality care.