Tag Archives: chiropractic care

Chiropractic Myths vs. Facts

chiropractic myths

Despite its growing popularity and recognition within the health community, chiropractic care is still surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Let’s debunk some of the most common chiropractic myths and provide evidence-based information to clarify the facts.

Myth 1: Chiropractors Are Not Real Doctors

Fact: Chiropractors are highly trained healthcare professionals who undergo rigorous education and training. A Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree in the United States requires at least seven years of higher education, including undergraduate study and four to five years of chiropractic college. The curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, neurology, radiology, and diagnostic imaging coursework, followed by clinical internships. Chiropractors must also pass national board exams and obtain state licensure to practice.

Myth 2: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Dangerous

Fact: Chiropractic adjustments are safe and effective when performed by a licensed and trained chiropractor. The risk of serious adverse effects is extremely low. Research has shown that chiropractic care can effectively help patients with acute and chronic low back pain, neck pain, and certain types of headaches, in addition to much more. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal manipulation is associated with minimal risk and can significantly relieve musculoskeletal pain. (2)

Myth 3: Chiropractic Care Is Only for Back Pain

Fact: While chiropractic care is well-known for addressing back pain, it is not limited to this condition. Chiropractors also address issues related to neck pain, headaches, joint problems, and musculoskeletal injuries. Additionally, they often provide guidance on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle modifications to promote overall health and well-being.

Myth 4: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Painful

Fact: Most patients feel relief rather than pain during chiropractic adjustments. The techniques used are typically gentle and tailored to the individual’s needs. Patients may experience a mild soreness like that felt after exercise, which usually resolves quickly.

Myth 5: Once You Start Chiropractic Care, You Have to Keep Going Forever

Fact: The frequency and duration of chiropractic care depend on the individual’s condition and health goals. Some patients may require a short series of appointments for acute issues, while others may benefit from ongoing care for chronic conditions or preventive maintenance. Chiropractors work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that align with their specific needs.

If you are interested in discovering Chiropractic Care, give us a call! (517) 627-4547

 

Chiropractic and Pregnancy: Exploring the Benefits

Chiropractic care has long been recognized for its holistic approach to health and wellness. During pregnancy, this natural form of healthcare can offer significant benefits to expectant mothers, addressing common discomforts and promoting overall well-being. Let’s explore how chiropractic care, mainly through the removal of subluxations, can provide pain relief, improve posture, and enhance overall wellness during pregnancy.

Pain Relief

Pregnancy often brings about various aches and pains, primarily due to the extra weight and altered biomechanics associated with carrying a child. One of the most common complaints is lower back pain. Chiropractors use specific techniques to adjust the spine, targeting misalignments or subluxations that may be causing discomfort. By realigning the spine, chiropractic adjustments can relieve nerve pressure and reduce pain. This non-invasive approach is precious as it provides a drug-free alternative for pain management, ensuring both mother and baby’s safety.

Improved Posture

As pregnancy progresses, the body undergoes significant changes, including a shift in the center of gravity and increased lumbar lordosis (inward curvature of the lower back). These changes can lead to poor posture, which can cause musculoskeletal strain and discomfort. Chiropractic care aims to maintain proper spinal alignment, which helps in supporting better posture. Regular adjustments can correct any deviations caused by the growing abdomen, ensuring that the spine and pelvis are correctly aligned. This alignment is crucial for reducing discomfort and supporting a healthier pregnancy and delivery process.

Overall Wellness

Chiropractic care extends beyond pain relief and posture improvement. By focusing on the nervous system, chiropractors can enhance overall wellness. The nervous system controls and coordinates all bodily functions; optimal performance is crucial during pregnancy. Removing subluxations or misalignments in the spine ensures that the nervous system operates efficiently, which can boost the body’s natural healing processes. This can lead to improved sleep, reduced stress levels, and better digestion, all of which are important for the health of both the mother and the developing baby.

Moreover, chiropractic care can potentially lead to shorter labor and delivery times. Proper pelvic alignment can facilitate a smoother and more efficient birth process. When the pelvis is balanced, it provides more room for the baby to move into the optimal birthing position, potentially reducing complications during delivery.

Chiropractic care offers many benefits for expectant mothers. By removing subluxations, chiropractors can provide pain relief, improve posture, and promote overall wellness. As a noninvasive, drug-free option, chiropractic care is a valuable addition to prenatal care, supporting the health and comfort of both mother and baby throughout pregnancy.

Do you know someone who is expecting?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

 

Researching Chiropractic: Constipation, Cerebral Palsy, Ear Conditions and more

Chiropractic clinical case histories have been a regular feature of our patient newsletter since its inception. There seems to be no limit to the health problems that respond positively to chiropractic care. How many people suffering, reliant on medication and drugs, and facing a life of limitation could be helped by chiropractic care?

Probably most of them.

Constipation

The patient, a 54-year-old woman, had been experiencing constipation for the past eight months, with less than three bowel movements per week. Along with this, she also complained of bloating in her stomach but without any pain. Chiropractic adjustments were performed on her C1, C2, T6, L4, and sacroiliac joints to address any vertebral subluxations. After receiving one month of care, the patient was able to have at least one bowel movement per day. (1)

Cerebral Palsy in an infant

An infant diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy was brought to a chiropractic clinic at the age of 3½ weeks. The baby boy had suffered from encephalopathy, a brain damage caused by low oxygen during birth. It took 30 minutes for the ambulance to arrive, and the infant was already 70 minutes old when he reached the hospital. The doctors had informed the parents that their child might be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. However, after starting chiropractic treatment twice a week, adjustments were made to his sacrum, atlas, and cranium. As he progressed, the frequency of visits reduced to once a month over a period of five years. The patient’s mother also provided physical therapy sessions at home. As a result, the patient can now walk, talk, and function like any other normal child, although with slight developmental delays. The patient is no longer wheelchair-bound. (2)

Ear Conditions

Five individuals, ranging from infancy to five years old, were battling with persistent otitis media despite having been on antibiotics for no less than half a year. Each of these patients then embarked on a regime involving chiropractic care. Remarkably, they all showed signs of recovery within the time frame of 3 days to 8 weeks, with the results being highly satisfactory. Among the five, three patients had misalignment at the atlas vertebra; one manifested a dislocation at the occipital bone, while another had both atlas and axis vertebrae out of place. In addition to this, comprehensive spine adjustments were performed on them. [3]

Sciatica and Back Pain

A 30-year-old woman suffered from upper back pain and sciatica. She also had scoliosis and significant pelvic rotation. Medical interventions such as physical therapy failed to make significant improvements to her complaints.

Vertebral subluxations were found at the levels of C2, T6, and Right Ilium.

She was seen twice a week for six weeks and once a week for six weeks. After care, she reported a resolution of sciatica, a significant decrease in upper back pain, and marked improvements in neck and lower back ranges of motion. [4]

Do you know someone with these issues?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

  1. Acosta B. Resolution of Chronic Constipation in a 54-Year-Old Female Following Chiropractic Care: A Case Study & Review of the Literature Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, Volume 2024 Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research. January 2, 2024, Pages 1-7
  2. Rubin D, Taylor C. Chiropractic Care & Long Term Follow Up of an Infant with Cerebral Palsy: A Case Report & Review of the Literature. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health Chiropractic, Volume 2023Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic ~ December 12, 2023 ~ Pages 35-42
  3. Fysh PN. Chronic recurrent otitis media: case series of five patients with recommendations for case management. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics 1996 1(2):66-78. 
  4. Hamstead A. Reduction of Upper Back Pain & Resolution of Sciatica Following Chiropractic Care to Reduce Vertebral Subluxation in a 30-Year-Old Female with Scoliosis: A Case Study Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research ~ January 16, 2024 ~ Volume 2024 ~ Pages 8-14

Chiropractic Care When You Are Feeling Down

In today’s fast-paced world, mental well-being is as crucial as physical health, yet it often receives less attention. While traditional mental health interventions focus on psychotherapy and medication, emerging evidence suggests that chiropractic care can also play a vital role in managing mood disorders and improving overall mental wellness. This holistic approach to health care, primarily known for addressing musculoskeletal issues, might offer a surprising benefit to those feeling mentally down.

The spine is a central conduit of nerve impulses throughout the body, and misalignments, known as subluxations, can disrupt this system, potentially affecting mood and mental health.

The connection between chiropractic adjustments and improved mental health lies in the body’s response to treatment. Adjustments to the spine can reduce physical pain, which in itself is a significant factor in mental distress. Chronic pain is a known contributor to depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life. By alleviating this pain, chiropractic care can indirectly lift one’s mood and enhance feelings of well-being.

Moreover, chiropractic adjustments may influence the body’s biochemistry. Research suggests that spinal adjustments can lead to hormonal changes, including increases in endorphins and cortisol, which are associated with pain relief and mood elevation. These hormonal shifts can provide a natural boost to one’s mental state, particularly for those dealing with stress, anxiety, or mild depression.

A critical piece of evidence supporting the link between chiropractic care and improved mental health comes from a study published in the “Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research.” This research found significant improvements in psychological health in participants following chiropractic adjustments, with reductions in depression and anxiety scores. The study underscores the potential of chiropractic care as a complementary approach to traditional mental health treatments.

While chiropractic care is traditionally associated with physical health, its benefits may extend far beyond, offering a complementary solution for those feeling mentally down. By addressing the physical discomfort and promoting hormonal balance, chiropractic adjustments can play a role in improving mental wellness. As always, it’s essential to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate care plan for your specific needs. Integrating chiropractic care with conventional mental health interventions might provide a holistic path to improved well-being.

Make an appointment with us today.
517-627-4547

What is a Subluxation?

From a chiropractic perspective, a subluxation is defined as a misalignment of the vertebrae, regarded as a key cause of health problems through its impact on the nervous system. Unlike the medical definition, which emphasizes partial dislocation of any joint, chiropractic subluxation focuses specifically on the spine and its influence on overall health. Chiropractors believe that these spinal subluxations can interfere with the body’s self-healing capabilities by disrupting the flow of nerve impulses between the brain and the rest of the body.

Subluxations are thought to result from various stress factors that can be physical (such as poor posture, accidents, or repetitive motions), chemical (like poor nutrition or substance abuse), or emotional (stress, anxiety). These stressors can lead to changes in the spinal tissues, causing vertebrae to move out of their normal position and potentially affect nerve function.

Symptoms of a subluxation may not be as immediately apparent as those of a medical subluxation and can vary widely among individuals. Some may experience back or neck pain, while others may have systemic issues such as digestive problems, headaches, or fatigue, suggesting that the effects of subluxations can extend beyond the immediate area of misalignment to influence overall health.

The chiropractic approach to removing subluxations is through adjustments, a specialized technique designed to correct vertebral misalignments, thereby restoring proper nerve function and promoting the body’s natural healing processes. Chiropractors use their hands or specific instruments to apply controlled force to the spine, aiming to realign the vertebrae to their proper position.

Research and clinical studies support the chiropractic assertion that addressing spinal subluxations can have a positive impact on overall health. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics highlights the potential benefits of chiropractic adjustments in improving nerve function and reducing pain (3).

In summary, from a chiropractic standpoint, a subluxation is not just a physical misalignment but a significant health concern with the potential to affect the nervous system and overall well-being. Chiropractors emphasize the importance of correcting these subluxations to maintain health and prevent disease.

Chiropractic Care for Menstrual Cramps: A Natural Remedy

Menstrual cramps, medically termed dysmenorrhea, is a condition experienced by many women around the world. These painful sensations in the lower abdomen or pelvis are often accompanied by aches in the lower back and thighs, affecting the daily life and well-being of countless individuals. While over-the-counter medications can provide some relief, an increasing number of women are turning to alternative therapies, like chiropractic care, for a holistic approach to their discomfort.

menstrual cramps

Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the spine’s structure and the body’s function, regulated by the nervous system. A misaligned spine can interfere with this connection, potentially leading to various health concerns, including menstrual discomfort. A chiropractor’s primary objective is to correct these misalignments, known as subluxations, through spinal adjustments.

There are several ways in which chiropractic care can benefit those suffering from menstrual cramps:

Improved Nervous System Function: The spine houses the spinal cord, a crucial part of the central nervous system. By realigning the spine, chiropractors can enhance nerve function, ensuring that every body part, including the reproductive system, works optimally.

Enhanced Pelvic Alignment: A misaligned pelvis can exacerbate menstrual pain. Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct any misalignment in the pelvis, which can alleviate tension and pain during menstruation.

Reduced Muscle Tension: Chiropractic care often incorporates soft tissue techniques and stretches, which can relieve muscle tightness in the lower back and abdomen associated with menstrual cramps.

Research indicates a positive correlation between chiropractic care and reduced menstrual discomfort. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that many patients experienced relief from dysmenorrhea after spinal adjustments (2).

Chiropractic care can serve as a safe, natural, and effective alternative to traditional medications, offering relief to many who suffer from the recurring pain of menstrual cramps.

Call us to make an appointment today! (517) 627-4547

Why Should You Return to See a Chiropractor?

The importance of maintaining optimal spinal health cannot be overstated. Many individuals experience immediate relief after their initial chiropractic session, but it’s essential to recognize that consistent chiropractic care offers long-term benefits that go beyond momentary comfort.

Regular chiropractic adjustments can help in preventing future injuries. Just as we exercise to keep our muscles robust and engage in activities promoting cardiovascular health, ensuring our spine is in its best condition is equally vital. Chiropractors emphasize the proactive maintenance of spinal health, which can prevent the onset of issues before they become more pronounced and difficult to correct.

Moreover, consistent chiropractic visits can improve posture, especially for individuals who spend extended periods sitting or engaging in repetitive tasks. Poor posture not only affects our appearance but also leads to an array of health issues, such as back pain, neck pain, and decreased lung capacity. Regular adjustments can help realign the spine and promote better postural habits.

Another noteworthy benefit is the enhancement of the body’s overall function. The nervous system is the primary communicator within our body, and any misalignment can hinder this communication, leading to decreased bodily function. Chiropractic care ensures that the spine, which houses the nervous system, functions optimally, ensuring the entire body operates at its peak.

Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care can boost the immune system, which is crucial for fighting illnesses and infections (1).

While immediate relief from pain or discomfort following a chiropractic adjustment is undoubtedly beneficial, the long-term advantages make regular visits invaluable. Whether you’re aiming to prevent future injuries, improve your posture, enhance your body’s overall functionality, or boost your immune system, returning to see a chiropractor is a decision that can significantly improve your quality of life.

Call today for an appointment. 517–627-4547

1.Teodorczyk-Injeyan, J. A., Injeyan, H. S., & Ruegg, R. (2006). Spinal manipulative therapy reduces inflammatory cytokines but not substance P production in normal subjects. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 29(1), 14-21  

Chiropractic and Childhood Sports Injuries

Childhood Sports Injuries

Participation in sports is highly beneficial for children, promoting physical fitness, coordination, and teamwork skills. However, it also carries the risk of injuries, which can significantly impact a child’s overall well-being. Chiropractic care has emerged as a valuable complementary approach for managing childhood sports injuries. 

Childhood sports injuries can range from sprains and strains to more severe conditions like fractures and concussions. 

Chiropractic care focuses on but is not limited to musculoskeletal disorders, including sports injuries. Chiropractors employ a holistic approach to care, aiming to restore proper alignment and function of the spine and other joints in the body. By doing so, they alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote the body’s natural healing process.

Several studies support the efficacy of chiropractic care in managing childhood sports injuries. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics examined the effects of chiropractic intervention on ankle sprains in young athletes. The results indicated that chiropractic treatment significantly improved pain reduction, range of motion, and functional ability compared to a control group (6).

Chiropractic care offers a holistic and evidence-based approach to managing childhood sports injuries. By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances, chiropractors can help children recover from injuries, prevent future occurrences, and enhance their overall sports performance. However, it is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each case.

A NOTE FROM Dr. C.  As sports season is now underway..take a moment to have your child evaluated to make sure your child is in good shape.  Then plan on having checks through the season to nip any issues in the bud.

Contact us at 517.627.4547 to schedule an appointment. 

Chiropractors Do Something Unique

We, chiropractors, do something other primary healthcare providers aren’t trained to do. We are specially trained to locate stress in your body that can interfere with your health. These stressors are called subluxations. Subluxations are tiny, commonly occurring misalignments or distortions of your spine and structural system that can interfere with the nerves that carry messages throughout your body. 

Subluxations are dangerous because they may impinge (“pinch”) the nerves that connect your brain and spinal cord to your muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, discs, glands, and other internal organs. This can diminish your overall body function.

How can you tell if you have a subluxation? Some subluxations are associated with pain or malfunction, but many don’t cause pain or apparent symptoms. 

For example, imagine you have a vertebra out of position, causing nerve pressure that affects nerves going to the stomach. Your digestion may be impaired, your stomach may be “nervous,” and you may have ulcers or other conditions, yet you feel no back or spinal pain. This is because not all nerves carry pain messages.

Your heart, lungs, kidneys, intestines, bladder, eyes, ears, throat, and other internal organs are connected to our brain by many nerves that emit from your brain and spine. The connected systems will suffer if these nerves are irritated by a subluxation.

For over a hundred years, the recorded benefits of subluxation correction include the successful treatment of ear infections, asthma, allergies, cancer, heart disease, ADHD, autism, headaches, backaches, digestive problems, vision, and hearing problems, as well as improvement of overall immunity, balance, brain function, concentration, IQ, energy-and many more.

Contact us at 517.627.4547 to schedule an appointment. 

Chiropractic Care is as Easy as 1, 2, 3

Number 1

Your body possesses a healing ability that can dwarf the feats of the world’s greatest doctors. Your body is the world’s greatest doctor. Numerous studies and clinical reports show that your body can heal any disease or condition. The same power that can heal a cut is capable of treating cancer. No better healer exists than your wisdom-filled being. The body, however, needs to be permitted to express its healing potential to its maximum.

Number 2

Subluxations interfere with your ability to reach your healing potential. These tiny misalignments in your spine interfere with the nerves that make up your body’s communication pathways, limiting the body’s ability to perform its job optimally.

Number 3

Chiropractors are specially trained to locate and correct or adjust subluxations. This frees your body’s healing potential. Our goal is to permit your body to function better – not to ‘treat’ a symptom of malfunction. DC means Doctor of Chiropractic, but many people say it stands for “Doctor of Cause.” When your chiropractor switches on your internal doctor, you have more energy for healing, and you come closer to reaching your inner potential. This is why it is crucial for everyone, young and old, to be checked for subluxations by a Doctor of Chiropractic.  For some, it may be the difference between a life of high energy, vitality, and good health and a life of fatigue, low energy, and disease. It can make all the difference in the world!

Schedule an appointment with us today!

(517) 627-4547