Are you tired of dealing with chronic pain? Have you tried various treatment options with little success? Chiropractic adjustments could be the solution you’ve been searching for. But how long do the benefits of chiropractic adjustments last?
In this article, we will explore the factors that influence the duration of chiropractic adjustments and the short-term versus long-term benefits they provide. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets of chiropractic care!
Factors Influencing the Duration of Chiropractic Adjustments
Chiropractic adjustments are personalized treatments that cater to each individual’s unique needs. Therefore, the duration of benefits can vary depending on several factors. One crucial factor is the severity of the condition being treated. If you have a minor issue, you may experience relief that lasts longer than someone with a more severe problem.
Spine Misalignment
For example, let’s consider a person with a minor misalignment in their spine. They may visit a chiropractor and receive an adjustment that brings immediate relief. However, due to the little nature of their condition, the benefits may only last for a few days or weeks. On the other hand, someone with a severe spinal misalignment may require multiple adjustments over an extended period to achieve lasting relief.
Health and Lifestyle Habits
Another factor that influences the duration of chiropractic adjustments is your overall health and lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as engaging in regular exercise and proper nutrition, can enhance the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments. When your body is in good shape, it can respond better to the treatment, leading to longer-lasting benefits.
Consider a scenario where two individuals with similar spinal conditions seek chiropractic care. One person leads a sedentary lifestyle, rarely exercises, and consumes an unhealthy diet. The other person exercises regularly, eats a balanced diet, and takes care of their overall health. The person with a healthier lifestyle is likely to experience longer-lasting benefits from chiropractic adjustments compared to the individual with poor lifestyle choices.
Skill and Experience of Your Chiropractor
Furthermore, the skill and experience of your chiropractor play a significant role in determining the duration of benefits. A skilled chiropractor will thoroughly analyze your condition and provide effective adjustments that yield longer-lasting results.
Consider a situation where two individuals with similar conditions visit different chiropractors. One chiropractor has years of experience and a reputation for delivering exceptional results. The other chiropractor is relatively new to the field. The individual who seeks treatment from an experienced chiropractor is more likely to experience longer-lasting benefits due to the expertise and knowledge of the practitioner.
It is important to note that various external factors can also influence the duration of chiropractic adjustments. These factors may include your adherence to the recommended treatment plan, commitment to follow-up appointments, and willingness to incorporate any prescribed exercises or lifestyle changes into your routine.
The duration of benefits from chiropractic adjustments can vary depending on the severity of the condition being treated, your overall health and lifestyle choices, as well as the skill and experience of your chiropractor. By considering these factors and actively participating in your treatment plan, you can maximize the duration of benefits and improve your overall well-being.
Average Duration of Relief from a Single Adjustment
You may experience immediate relief from pain and discomfort when you undergo a chiropractic adjustment. However, the duration of this relief can vary from person to person. On average, the benefits of a single adjustment can last from a few hours to a few days. This temporary relief reduces pain and improves your overall range of motion, allowing you to perform daily activities more efficiently.
It’s important to note that the duration of relief can be influenced by various factors, such as your condition’s severity, overall health, and how well you follow your chiropractor’s recommendations. A single adjustment may provide long-lasting relief for some individuals, while others may require more frequent sessions to maintain the benefits.
Additionally, chiropractic adjustments stimulate the body’s natural healing process. This means that the benefits of a single adjustment can continue to improve even after the initial relief wears off. The adjustment helps restore proper alignment to your spine, enhancing communication between your nervous system and the rest of your body. This improved communication allows your body to function optimally, promoting overall well-being.
So, don’t be discouraged if you only experience short-term relief from one treatment session – the cumulative effect of multiple adjustments is where the long-term benefits truly shine. Committing to regular chiropractic care allows your body to heal and maintain its optimal state.
The Cumulative Effect of Regular Chiropractic Care
Regular chiropractic care is essential for maintaining your overall health and well-being. While a single adjustment can provide temporary relief, it is through consistent, ongoing care that you can experience lasting benefits. Just as brushing your teeth once won’t prevent cavities, sporadic chiropractic adjustments won’t address the root causes of your pain and discomfort.
By committing to regular chiropractic sessions, you allow your chiropractor to address any misalignments or imbalances in your spine before they cause significant issues. These misalignments, known as subluxations, can interfere with the proper functioning of your nervous system, leading to a wide range of health problems.
Over time, as your body becomes more aligned and balanced, the duration of relief from each adjustment can increase. You may find that the pain relief and improved function last for weeks or even months between sessions. This is because regular adjustments help maintain the proper alignment of your spine, preventing the recurrence of pain and discomfort.
In addition to pain relief, regular chiropractic care can also improve your overall well-being. By addressing spinal misalignments, chiropractic adjustments can enhance your body’s ability to heal and function optimally. This can lead to improvements in various aspects of your health, such as better sleep, increased energy levels, and improved immune function.
Maintenance and Frequency: How Often Should You Get Adjusted?
How often you should get chiropractic adjustments depends on your specific needs and goals. Initially, your chiropractor may recommend more frequent visits to address any immediate issues and establish a solid foundation for your treatment plan. As your condition improves, the frequency of adjustments may decrease.
It’s important to communicate openly with your chiropractor and work together to determine the best maintenance schedule for you. They will consider factors such as the severity of your condition, your response to treatment, and your overall health goals. Regular check-ups can help prevent minor issues from becoming chronic conditions, ensuring you reap the full benefits of chiropractic care.
Remember, chiropractic care is not just about addressing pain and discomfort; it’s about optimizing your body’s function and promoting overall wellness. You are investing in your long-term health and well-being by investing in regular adjustments.
The Role of Lifestyle and Health in Chiropractic Effectiveness
Chiropractic adjustments have long been recognized as highly effective in promoting overall wellness and alleviating various health conditions. However, it is essential to note that chiropractic care is not a stand-alone solution. Your lifestyle choices and overall health directly influence the effectiveness and duration of the benefits you receive from chiropractic care.
Regular Physical Activity Improves Spinal Health
One crucial aspect of maintaining optimal spinal health is regular physical activity. Exercise helps strengthen the muscles that support your spine, promotes flexibility, and improves circulation. You can enhance the positive effects of chiropractic adjustments by incorporating various exercises into your routine, such as cardiovascular activities, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
In addition to regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight is essential for maximizing the benefits of chiropractic care. Excess weight can stress your spine more, leading to misalignments and discomfort. Adopting a balanced and nutritious diet can support your body’s natural healing processes and reduce the strain on your spine.
Stress Management
Stress management techniques also play a significant role in chiropractic effectiveness. Chronic stress can contribute to muscle tension and poor posture, negatively impacting spinal alignment. Incorporating stress-reducing practices into your daily routine, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy, can help promote relaxation and improve the outcomes of chiropractic adjustments.
Proper Nutrition and Hydration
Furthermore, proper nutrition and hydration are vital for your body to heal and thrive. A well-balanced diet that includes essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals provides the building blocks necessary for tissue repair and optimal musculoskeletal system functioning. Staying hydrated is equally important, as water helps maintain spinal discs’ elasticity and facilitates the transportation of nutrients to the affected areas.
To enhance the benefits of chiropractic adjustments, your chiropractor may recommend specific exercises and stretches tailored to your needs. These exercises can help strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, improve flexibility, and prevent future misalignments. By incorporating these exercises into your daily routine, you actively participate in your well-being and contribute to the long-lasting effects of chiropractic care.
Short-term vs Long-term Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments
Regarding chiropractic adjustments, it’s essential to consider both the short-term and long-term benefits. While the immediate relief these adjustments provide is undeniable, focusing on the long-term benefits is equally crucial. Chiropractic care goes beyond just alleviating symptoms; it aims to address the underlying causes of pain and dysfunction.
Chiropractic Adjustments Target the Root Cause
By targeting the root issues, chiropractic adjustments have the potential to provide long-lasting results and significantly improve your overall quality of life. Unlike other forms of treatment that may only offer temporary relief, chiropractic care seeks to correct the underlying problems, leading to sustained improvements in your health and well-being.
One of the remarkable aspects of chiropractic care is its holistic approach to your well-being. In addition to pain relief, chiropractic adjustments can positively impact various aspects of your health. For instance, many patients report improved immune system function after receiving regular chiropractic care. By aligning the spine and removing interference from the nervous system, chiropractic adjustments can help enhance the body’s ability to fight infections and illnesses.
Chiropractic Care Improves Digestion
Furthermore, chiropractic care has been known to improve digestion. Misalignments in the spine can disrupt the communication between the brain and the digestive system, leading to issues such as acid reflux, bloating, and constipation. By realigning the spine, chiropractic adjustments can restore proper communication and function, allowing for improved digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Another area where chiropractic care can have a significant impact is sleep. Many individuals struggle with sleep disorders, such as insomnia or restless sleep. Chiropractic adjustments can help address the underlying causes of these issues, such as muscle tension or misalignments in the spine that may be affecting the nervous system. Chiropractic care can promote relaxation, reduce tension, and improve sleep quality and duration.
Less Pain Leads to Improved Mental Clarity
Moreover, chiropractic adjustments have been linked to improved mental clarity. Misalignments in the spine can interfere with the proper flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, leading to cognitive fog and difficulty concentrating. Chiropractic care can enhance mental clarity, focus, and overall cognitive function by realigning the spine and improving circulation.
At the end of the day, while a single chiropractic adjustment can provide temporary relief, the benefits lie in regular care’s cumulative effect. Committing to ongoing chiropractic sessions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can experience improved function, reduced pain, and enhanced overall well-being. So, why wait? Schedule your subsequent chiropractic adjustment and unlock your body’s full potential today!
Welcome to an in-depth exploration of advanced spinal manipulation, or what we prefer to refer to as spinal adjustment! This article will dive into this effective therapy’s science, benefits, techniques, and safety. Understanding the world of advanced spinal manipulation is essential to improve your health and wellness. So, let’s get started!
The Science Behind Spinal Manipulation Techniques
When it comes to spinal adjustment, there is a fascinating scientific basis behind its effectiveness. Researchers have discovered that manipulating the spine can help restore alignment, improve nerve function, and promote overall health. Skilled practitioners can release joint restrictions, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities by applying controlled force to specific spine areas.
Moreover, studies have shown that spinal manipulation can alleviate pain, enhance mobility, and improve function in various musculoskeletal conditions. It’s a therapy backed by science and continuously evolving through research and innovation.
Restoring Spinal Alignment
One of the key aspects of spinal manipulation is its ability to restore alignment and return to optimal movement. When the spine is misaligned, it can lead to various health issues. By applying controlled force to the spine, practitioners can help realign the vertebrae, allowing for proper nerve function and improved overall health. This realignment can positively impact the body’s ability to heal itself and maintain optimal function.
Another essential benefit of receiving spinal adjustments is its ability to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but it can lead to pain and dysfunction when it becomes chronic. By manipulating the spine, practitioners can help reduce inflammation in the affected areas, providing relief from pain and promoting healing.
Simulate Bodies Natural Healing Ability
Furthermore, spinal manipulation has been found to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities. The controlled force applied to the spine triggers a response in the body, activating the release of natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory substances. This natural response helps accelerate the healing process and promotes overall well-being.
Research has also shown that spinal manipulation can positively impact musculoskeletal conditions. Conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and joint stiffness can be effectively treated with spinal manipulation. By targeting specific spine areas, practitioners can alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function.
It’s important to note that spinal manipulation is a continuously evolving therapy through research and innovation. Scientists and practitioners constantly explore new techniques and refine existing ones to improve patient outcomes. This commitment to research ensures that spinal manipulation remains a science-backed therapy that provides effective results.
The science behind spinal manipulation techniques is fascinating and provides a solid foundation for its effectiveness. By restoring alignment, reducing inflammation, and stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities, spinal manipulation offers a holistic approach to musculoskeletal health. This therapy continues to evolve with ongoing research and innovation, providing patients with effective and evidence-based care.
Benefits of Advanced Spinal Manipulation for Health
When it comes to prioritizing your health and well-being, advanced spinal manipulation is an option that offers numerous benefits. One of the primary advantages of this therapy is its ability to provide effective pain relief. Whether you’re dealing with chronic back pain, a sports injury, or a work-related strain, advanced spinal manipulation can offer much-needed relief and help you regain control over your daily activities.
Improved Joint Mobility and Flexibility
But the benefits don’t stop there. Advanced spinal manipulation also improves joint mobility, flexibility, and posture. When your spine is aligned correctly, it reduces stress on surrounding muscles and allows for optimal movement. This means that not only will you experience less pain, but you’ll also be able to move with greater ease and grace.
In addition to improving joint mobility and flexibility, advanced spinal manipulation enhances circulation throughout your body. By aligning your spine, this therapy promotes the efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the body’s tissues. This increased circulation can positively impact your overall health, as it helps nourish your cells and support their optimal functioning.
Boosting Your Immune System
Furthermore, advanced spinal manipulation plays a significant role in boosting the immune system. Removing interference in the nervous system enables proper communication between the brain and body, strengthening the body’s ability to fight illness and disease. A robust immune system is crucial for maintaining good health; advanced spinal manipulation can help you achieve that.
It’s important to note that advanced spinal manipulation is a safe and non-invasive therapy that can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re seeking pain relief, improved mobility, enhanced circulation, or a more robust immune system, this therapy can provide you with the desired benefits.
So, if you’re ready to take control of your health and experience the numerous benefits of advanced spinal manipulation, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified healthcare professional specializing in this therapy. They will be able to assess your individual needs and develop a personalized treatment plan that will help you achieve your health goals.
Common Conditions Treated with Spinal Manipulation
Advanced spinal manipulation is effective in treating a wide range of conditions. One of the most common conditions is lower back pain, which affects millions of people worldwide. Spinal adjustment is often recommended as a non-invasive treatment option, whether caused by poor posture, muscle strain, or spinal misalignment.
Spinal Manipulation provides pain relief from headaches
In addition to lower back pain, spinal adjustment can relieve neck pain, headaches, sciatica, and other musculoskeletal conditions. It’s an incredibly versatile therapy that addresses the root cause of many discomforts and ailments.
Lower back pain is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. It can make simple tasks like sitting, standing, or walking unbearable. The pain may radiate down the legs, causing weakness and numbness. When performed by a skilled practitioner, spinal manipulation can help alleviate the pain by realigning the spine and reducing pressure on the affected nerves.
Neck pain is another common complaint that can be effectively treated with spinal manipulation. Poor posture, prolonged sitting, and repetitive movements can all contribute to neck pain. By gently manipulating the cervical spine, a practitioner can restore proper alignment and relieve tension in the neck muscles, providing much-needed relief.
Headaches can have various causes, including tension, migraines, and even spinal misalignment. Spinal manipulation can help alleviate headaches by reducing muscle tension, improving blood flow, and restoring proper nerve function. By addressing the underlying cause of the headaches, this treatment offers a holistic approach to pain management.
Relieve pain from Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the legs. It can be caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or even muscle imbalances. Spinal manipulation can help relieve sciatic pain by reducing pressure on the affected nerve roots and promoting proper spinal alignment.
When considering spinal manipulation as a treatment option, it’s essential to consult with a skilled practitioner who can assess your specific condition. They will take into account your medical history, perform a thorough examination, and determine if spinal manipulation is suitable for you. Your practitioner will also develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Spinal manipulation is a safe and non-invasive therapy that has been used for centuries to treat various conditions. It offers a natural alternative to medication or surgery, focusing on restoring the body’s innate ability to heal itself. By addressing the root cause of pain and discomfort, spinal manipulation can provide long-lasting relief and improve overall well-being.
Advanced Techniques and Procedures
Now that we understand the science, benefits, and joint conditions treated, let’s explore the advanced techniques and procedures involved in spinal manipulation. Skilled practitioners employ various methods depending on the patient’s needs and condition.
Manual spinal manipulation is one technique where the practitioner applies controlled force and a quick thrust to a specific joint, resulting in a release. This technique requires highly trained hands and a deep understanding of spinal anatomy.
On the other hand, instrument-assisted spinal manipulation involves using specialized instruments to deliver precise adjustments to the spine. This technique is gentle yet effective, particularly for patients uncomfortable with manual manipulation.
Choosing the Right Practitioner in the Ottawa Valley
When seeking advanced spinal manipulation therapy, you must choose a qualified practitioner you can trust. In the Ottawa Valley, highly skilled chiropractors and other healthcare professionals specializing in spinal manipulation can be accessed.
Take the time to research and look for practitioners who have extensive experience, appropriate certifications, and positive patient reviews. Before committing to a practitioner, you may also consider scheduling a consultation to discuss your specific concerns and treatment goals.
What to Expect During a Spinal Manipulation Session
If you’ve never experienced a spinal adjustment, you may be curious about what to expect during a session. During your initial visit, the practitioner will conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the underlying cause of your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.
When it’s time for the manipulation, the practitioner will guide you into a specific position and apply the appropriate technique. While some patients may feel slight discomfort or hear a popping sound during the adjustment, the overall process is gentle and painless.
It’s important to communicate openly with your practitioner and share any feedback or concerns you may have. They are there to ensure your comfort and provide the most effective treatment.
Integrating Spinal Manipulation into Your Wellness Routine
If you’re considering incorporating advanced spinal manipulation into your wellness routine, you’re making a wise and proactive choice. Regular spinal adjustments can optimize your overall health and prevent future problems.
In addition to regular visits to your practitioner, you can take steps on your own to support the benefits of spinal manipulation. This may include practicing good posture, exercising regularly and stretching, maintaining a nutritious diet, and managing stress.
By adopting a holistic approach to your well-being, you can amplify the positive effects of spinal manipulation and enjoy a healthier, pain-free life.
Future Trends in Spinal Therapy
As the field of healthcare continues to evolve, so does the practice of spinal manipulation therapy. Researchers are constantly exploring innovative techniques and expanding our understanding of spinal health.
One promising trend is the integration of advanced technology into spinal manipulation. From computer-assisted diagnosis to robotic-assisted manipulation, advancements in technology enhance precision and optimize outcomes.
Moreover, there is increasing recognition of the importance of multidisciplinary care regarding spinal health. The collaboration between chiropractors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals results in comprehensive treatment plans that address the diverse needs of patients.
Advanced spinal manipulation is an effective therapy that offers numerous benefits for overall health and well-being. By understanding its science, advantages, techniques, and safety, you can make informed decisions about integrating this therapy into your wellness routine.
Remember to choose a qualified practitioner, communicate openly during your sessions, and adopt a holistic approach to your health. With regular spinal manipulations and a proactive mindset, you can pave the way for a healthier future full of vitality and pain-free living.
Do you toss and turn all night, yearning for a good night’s sleep? You’re not alone. In our fast-paced world, achieving quality sleep can feel like a luxury. Fortunately, by incorporating healthy sleep habits into your routine, you can transform your bedroom into a sleep sanctuary and wake up refreshed and energized.
Crafting Your Sleep Haven
The environment you sleep in plays a crucial role in promoting restful slumber. Here are some habits to create a sleep-conducive space:
Temperature Control: Our bodies naturally cool down as we prepare for sleep. Mimic this process by keeping your bedroom between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 and 19.5 degrees Celsius). If you tend to get cold feet, wear loose socks to keep them warm without restricting blood flow.
Embrace Darkness: Light disrupts the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Invest in blackout curtains to block any stray light from streetlamps or headlights. Weatherstrip your doors to prevent light from seeping through cracks, and remove electronics with indicator lights from your bedroom.
Power Down Before Bed: Electronics emit blue light, which suppresses melatonin production and tricks your brain into thinking it’s daytime. Avoid using electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, and TVs for at least two hours before bedtime.
Develop a Relaxing Routine
Creating a consistent sleep schedule helps regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up refreshed. Here are some habits to establish a relaxing bedtime routine:
Wind Down Gradually: Don’t expect to fall asleep instantly after a busy day. Allow yourself at least 30 minutes to unwind before bedtime. Take a warm bath, read a light book, listen to calming music, or practice gentle stretches. These activities signal to your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
Find Your Sleep Window: Aim to fall asleep consistently between 8:00 pm and midnight. This timeframe aligns with your natural circadian rhythm, promoting deeper and more restorative sleep. Sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, will help regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
Ditch the Afternoon Caffeine: Caffeine has a half-life of 5-6 hours, meaning it takes that long for your body to eliminate half the amount you consumed. To avoid sleep disruption, reduce caffeine intake by early afternoon, especially if you’re sensitive to its effects.
Minimize Blue Light Exposure
Blue light, heavily present in electronic devices and some artificial lights, disrupts melatonin production. Here are some habits to minimize blue light exposure:
Dim the Screens: If you must use electronics in the evening, consider using apps like f.lux or Twilight that filter out blue light. These apps adjust the color temperature of your screen to emit a warmer light that has less impact on melatonin production.
Embrace Daylight: Exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Open your curtains in the morning and get some sunlight exposure throughout the day. If natural light isn’t readily available, invest in daylight-mimicking light bulbs.
Consider Red or Orange Light Bulbs: Most bulbs emit blue light, part of the white light spectrum. In the evening, switch to red or orange light bulbs to create a more sleep-conducive environment. Budget-friendly options include orange party bulbs, while smart light systems like Philips Hue offer greater control over light color and intensity.
Relaxation Techniques for a Calmer Mind
A calm mind promotes better sleep. Here are some habits to quiet your mind before bed:
Take a Warm Bath: A hot bath 90-120 minutes before bed can help you relax and signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. Consider adding magnesium flakes or salts to your bath for an extra dose of relaxation. Magnesium deficiency is common and can contribute to sleep problems.
Quiet Your Mind: Before bed, try reading a light book, meditating, or practicing simple breathing exercises. Avoid activities that require focus or screen time, as this can stimulate your brain and make it harder to fall asleep.
Additional Tips:
Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality. However, avoid strenuous workouts close to bedtime, as they can be stimulating. Aim for exercise at least a few hours before bed.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Diet: Avoid heavy meals, sugary foods, and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can disrupt sleep. Opt for a light, healthy dinner a few hours before bed.
See a Chiropractor (Optional): If pain is keeping you awake, a chiropractor may be able to help. Studies show that chiropractic adjustments can improve sleep quality for some individuals.
Ready to start developing Habits for Healthy Sleep?
By incorporating these habits into your routine, you can cultivate a sleep-supportive environment and develop a healthy sleep schedule. Remember, consistency is key!
The more you prioritize these practices, the easier it will become to drift off to sleep peacefully and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
“Chiropractic just makes you feel so much better. When I walk out of the clinic, I feel like I’m about three inches taller and everything’s in place. And as long as I see the chiropractor, I feel like I’m one step ahead of the game.”
-Tom Brady, 5 time Superbowl champion
An estimated 90% of world class athletes use a chiropractor as part of their training and competition preparation (1). As Tom Brady highlights, chiropractic provides verifiable physical benefits like having “[everything] in place,” as well as mental benefits like feeling “one step ahead of the game.” Clearly, elite level athletes know that chiropractic plays a key role in keeping them healthy and preparing for competition.
Many people think of chiropractic as a tool to help recovery, and they are right. Chiropractic can help athletes return to play stronger than ever. A study of 20 female distance runners looked at the differences in a control group and one using chiropractic as part of their rehabilitation program as a means of rehabilitation. But even more interesting, a secondary finding of this study was that 5 of the runners achieved PR times in their 10k, and an additional 2 noted PR times in their half-marathon times (2), this while coming back from an injury.
Chiropractic can also help to correct posture. A forward head posture can lead to long term muscle strain, disc herniation, arthritis, or pinched nerves (3); This implies that chiropractors may help reduce injuries in athletes at any level. Forward head postures have been linked to loss of up to 30% of vital lung capacity (4), and helping to correct this may improve vital lung capacity, which allows for easier breathing. As you have probably experienced when exercising or playing a sport with a stuffed nose, easier breathing (and a higher lung capacity) allows you to give your best effort for longer.
Not only will improving posture give performance improvements on the field, but improving posture has been linked to reduction in cortisol and increases in testosterone (5). Reduced cortisol and increased testosterone both help improve recovery from regular activity (so you feel better after games/practices/workouts), as well as improve injury recovery and rehabilitation (so you feel better and return to play faster after getting hurt).
Some of the most amazing effects of chiropractic are neurological. A study investigated the impact of chiropractic on reaction time, by recruiting 50 athletes and assessing their reaction time. Twenty-five athletes were selected to receive chiropractic, and 25 athletes to act as a control group that received no chiropractic care. After six weeks of standardized training for all participants, the control group showed less than 1% improvement in reaction time, while the group under chiropractic care showed an 18% improvement in their reaction time (6). (The chiropractic group was also scoring significantly better on 11 standard tests of athletic ability, including distance perception, side step test, vertical jump, broad jump and many others). Who wouldn’t want to have such fantastic improvements with something so simple as a healthier functioning nervous system through chiropractic?
A related study found that chiropractic caused split-second decision making to happen twice as fastwhen reacting to computer based stimuli (7). As Many athletic endeavours, especially sports, require split-second decisions to be made, and being able to cut reaction time in half can make a world of difference.
Chiropractic can offer faster recovery time, improved athletic performance, and faster reaction times for athletes. Countless world class athletes are benefiting from chiropractic, but athletes at every level who are seeking an advantage could benefit from chiropractic. Perdita Felicien, a former World Champion hurdler and Canadian record hurdler is a big fan of chiropractic, and during her prime was quoted as saying
“Chiropractic care is an important part of keeping me in the best condition, so I can perform at an optimal level.”
Perdita has experienced what the research says: Chiropractic offers tremendous advantages to athletes at any level of competition.
Photo by Life Through Exposure Photography
References
1. Sean Atkins, Ph.D. , Exercise Physchologist.
2. Grimston, S. K., et al. “Muscular rehabilitation prescribed in coordination with prior chiropractic therapy as a treatment for sacroiliac subluxation in female distance runners.” Chiropractic Sports Medicine 4.1 (1990): 2-8.
3. Mayo Clinic Health Letter, Vol. 18 #3, March 2000.
4. Rene Calliet MD, Department of physical medicine and rehabilitation, University of South Carolina.
5. Carney, Dana R., Amy JC Cuddy, and Andy J. Yap. “Power posing brief nonverbal displays affect neuroendocrine levels and risk tolerance.” Psychological Science 21.10 (2010): 1363-1368.
6. Lauro, Anthony, and B. Mouch. “Chiropractic effects on athletic ability.” The Journal of Chiropractic Research and Clinical Investigation 6 (1991): 84-87.
7. Kelly, David D., Bernadette A. Murphy, and David P. Backhouse. “Use of a mental rotation reaction-time paradigm to measure the effects of upper cervical adjustments on cortical processing: a pilot study.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics 23.4 (2000): 246-251.
The study found that patients who used a maintenance style of care experienced almost 2 full weeks less with back pain per year than those using a symptom-based program of care, with an average difference of less than 2 more appointments per year for those utilizing a maintenance style of care.
The mechanisms behind maintenance care are thought to be that maintenance (or asymptomatic) care can improve movement and neuromuscular function. Additionally, it may address psychosocial issues – meaning people are less worried about falling back into pain and are less cautious about their back in their activities of daily living.
This means that in treating chronic low back pain, maintenance care can be a good option for preventing back pain as well as treating it when it does pop up.
