What is Chiropractic Treatment?

Chiropractic treatment is a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on natural, non-invasive methods. The treatment involves trained professionals using their hands to apply controlled and precise pressure to areas of the body. This pressure is used to manipulate joints and realign the spine to treat aches and pains, muscle stiffness or chronic conditions. This practice is rooted in the belief that by reducing nerve compression and restoring balance to the musculoskeletal system, overall health and wellbeing can be improved.

During your visit to a chiropractor, you can expect a comprehensive assessment of your joints and spine to pinpoint the underlying cause of your pain. Based on this diagnosis, your chiropractor will employ a range of techniques, including spinal adjustments and tailored exercises, to address your specific needs to promote healing and mobility.

There are many benefits of chiropractic treatment including alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and improving your sleep and posture. We’ve outlined the top five benefits of chiropractic treatment below:

The Benefits of Chiropractic Treatment

Benefit 1: Pain relief.

Pain can really hinder our quality of life, impairing our ability to work and complete tasks. Thankfully, chiropractic treatment may be an effective way to alleviate discomfort associated with back pain, neck pain, headaches, and a spectrum of musculoskeletal issues by addressing the root cause of the pain.

In 2018, there was a study conducted by Bart N. Green and Andrew S. Dunn on the effectiveness of chiropractic treatment which monitored 750 active-duty military personnel. During the 6 weeks, half of the participants received usual care such as medications and physical therapy, while the other half received usual care on top of regular chiropractic treatment. After those 6 weeks, the participants who received chiropractic care reported lower levels of pain intensity, needed less pain medication, and reported higher satisfaction with their treatment (NCIB). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8720651/

Benefit 2: Reduced inflammation.

Chiropractic treatments can assist in the reduction of inflammatory cytokines. These inflammatory cytokines are released as part of the body’s defense mechanism to fight against infection or injury – and as the name suggests, they create inflammation. Although inflammation is important for the body to heal – sometimes the body produces too much which can cause serious chronic problems. Inflammation left unaddressed has the potential to damage healthy cells, tissues, and organs.

Chiropractic treatment may assist in the reduction of inflammatory cytokines through the improvement of nervous system function, blood circulation, and immune function. By addressing spinal misalignments and nerve interference, chiropractic adjustments aim to manage the body’s inflammatory response.

Benefit 3: Reduce joint stiffness.

Joint stiffness can arise from various causes such as arthritis, injury, or the natural process of aging. It manifests as a sensation of rigidity, accompanied by tightness and discomfort, affecting joints throughout the body, from fingers and wrists to elbows, knees, and ankles.

Another one of the benefits of chiropractic treatment is its ability to offer effective management of joint stiffness by addressing misalignments that contribute to the restriction of movement. Through precise adjustments, chiropractors carefully apply targeted force to the affected joints, restoring their proper alignment and function. This process not only alleviates immediate discomfort but also promotes long-term joint health and mobility, empowering individuals to enjoy greater freedom of movement and improved quality of life.

Benefit 4: Improve your sleep and reduce stress.

Chiropractic treatment often enhances sleep quality and reduces stress levels. By ensuring proper alignment of the spine, chiropractic adjustments alleviate muscle tension and discomfort, fostering a more restful sleep experience. Moreover, these adjustments can enhance blood circulation and promote better posture, both of which contribute to improved sleep quality.

While many seek chiropractic care to address physical pain, its benefits extend to mental well-being. The relaxation induced by chiropractic adjustments can serve as a potent stress-relief method, making it particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety or depression-related insomnia. Combining chiropractic treatment with regular relaxation techniques amplifies its effectiveness in reducing stress levels and enhancing sleep quality, offering a comprehensive approach to overall health and wellness.

Benefit 5: Improved posture.

Although poor posture may not seem like a major concern – if it is maintained long-term, it may lead to various health issues. Poor posture can put strain on your muscles and joints, leading to discomfort and potentially contributing to conditions such as chronic back pain, headaches, and even digestive issues.

Chiropractic treatment focuses on aligning the spine and correcting misalignments, which can significantly improve posture over time. By addressing spinal misalignments and muscle imbalances, chiropractors can help restore proper alignment and function to the musculoskeletal system. This, in turn, can alleviate strain on muscles and joints, allowing the body to maintain a more natural and balanced posture.

Chiropractic treatment offers a holistic and natural approach to healthcare, addressing a range of issues from pain relief to stress reduction and posture improvement. By focusing on realigning the spine and addressing musculoskeletal imbalances, chiropractors aim to not only alleviate immediate discomfort but also promote long-term health and well-being. The benefits of chiropractic treatment extend beyond physical ailments, encompassing mental health and overall quality of life. If you haven’t tried Chiropractic treatment before, it may be worth a try. If you have Extras cover with Navy Health, Chiropractic treatments are included services. To view our Extras cover services and limits, click here.