A chiropractor, like a chiropractor in Dundalk, MD, may explain that chiropractic care is a medical practice which treats ailments of the musculoskeletal system. The main focus of chiropractics is on the spine. The human body is comprised of tendons, joints, and cartilage, all of which enable us to move and offer protection for our organs. The human body is like one large interconnected web — everything interacts and can impact each other.
Chiropractic care emphasizes the importance of maintaining a body and mind connection, in which the spine must be in proper working order for the rest of the body to follow suit. For instance, if the spine is misaligned, it can cause stagnancy in which blood flow and nutrients are constricted. Patients are not to be surprised if one of the first things a chiropractor does after a brief talk about symptoms, is assess the spine for irregularities.
What happens during a chiropractic manipulation?
Chiropractic manipulation is when pressure on a patient’s spine or other areas is applied by a qualified chiropractor, to correct misalignments. A chiropractor may use his or her hands or a tool to quickly apply a controlled amount of force to a joint. The intention of these adjustments is to decrease pain, improve function, strengthen muscles, and encourage the body to heal itself. The human body releases naturally-occurring properties that help with pain. However, if a patient’s spine isn’t in correct position, these helpful properties may have a hard time getting to the injured area.
What other treatments may a chiropractor recommend?
Along with spinal adjustments, a chiropractor may suggest other therapies too. A chiropractor will examine the patient, focusing on the health of their spine, and may have tests such as X-rays performed if needed for a diagnosis. If the chiropractor deems the patient in need of chiropractic medicine, he or she will develop a course for treatment. Other treatments that may be recommended include:
- Dietary supplements
- Lifestyle and/or nutritional counseling
- Heat and ice therapy
- Relaxation and stress reduction
- Electrical stimulation
- Exercises and stretching
Are chiropractic treatments safe?
Yes, chiropractic adjustments are safe. Many patients who are new to chiropractic care worry about whether a spinal adjustment is going to cause them pain. In most cases, a patient won’t have much, if any, pain and may only experience a mild soreness after the session. You can compare the degree of this soreness to the feeling of as if you just had a really good workout at the gym. The soreness shouldn’t last longer than a day or two. Most patients actually feel immense relief immediately following a chiropractic spinal adjustment. Don’t hesitate to schedule an in-person consultation to see if you are a great candidate for chiropractic care.
Thanks to Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic for their insight into what you need to know about chiropractic adjustments.
