Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts which is based on the understanding that good health depends in part upon an optimally functioning nervous system. The nerves extending from the spine innervate the whole body. Chiropractic adjustment (also known as spinal manipulation) is the way in which a trained chiropractor restores proper function to your body by locating and adjusting a musculoskeletal area of the body that is functioning improperly. This can be done by using their hands or a small instrument to bring manipulation to the vertebrae. The goals are to correct structural alignment, improve your body’s physical function and restore range of motion. No special preparation is required before a chiropractic adjustment.
The nervous system is protected by the vertebrae. The bones in your back fit together, so that the nerve supply produced in your brain may filter down your spinal cord and out to your nerves. This nerve supply is responsible for growth, repair, and healing in your entire body. When vertebrae are out of their natural alignment, nerves become stretched or twisted (commonly referred to as a pinched nerve). This is when the vital communication system in the body is disrupted. This neurological disturbance is called a subluxation, and it may result in the failure of one or more parts of the body as well as overall general health. Subluxations can also foster the onset of sickness and disease as the body weakens.
Instead of treating the symptoms of the disease, chiropractic adjustments are given to correct the subluxation so that normal body functions may take place. This is done by the use of a chiropractor’s hands on your back and/or by a small instrument to gently line up the vertebrae in their natural position. This process may take weeks or months depending on the amount of misalignment. The nervous supply may then be restored throughout the body, and healing can take place. As your body heals, the symptoms begin to diminish.
Many studies of the chiropractic adjustment have proven its effectiveness, safety and high levels of patient satisfaction. In 1994, the U.S. Agency for Health Care Policy deemed this technique as the gold standard for treating low back pain. Since the agencies initial findings, more research has been conducted on neck pain, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, infantile colic and rehabilitation. Each of the study’s findings supports the role of chiropractic care and its manipulative procedures. Chiropractic adjustments have proven to be safe and effective by a skilled professional.
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