According to the National Institute of Health, approximately 31 million adults in the United States experience low-back pain at any given time. And it’s one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor. While there are many treatment options available for those suffering from back and neck pain, some people may wonder if neck pain chiropractic care is a good option. The answer is not always clear-cut. Learn more about the pros and cons of chiropractic care!
What Is Chiropractic And How Can It Help Relieve Neck And Back Pain
At its simplest, chiropractic is the art and science of restoring proper alignment and motion to the musculoskeletal system. This often includes adjustments to the spinal column but may also include manipulating joints in the extremities (arms and legs). Adjustments are made by hand, using either a quick thrusting movement or a more gentle, sustained pressure.
Chiropractic is founded on the principle that when the musculoskeletal system is properly aligned, it allows the body to heal itself without medication or surgery. Proponents of this natural approach to health believe that misalignments in the musculoskeletal system can lead to a wide variety of problems, including pain, headaches, fatigue, and even organ dysfunction. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional medical treatment for your neck or back pain, chiropractic care may be worth considering.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Relieve Neck And Back Pain
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option that has been shown to be effective in relieving neck and back pain. If you’re experiencing chronic neck or back pain, a neck pain chiropractor can help by:
- Back Pain
Chiropractors help with back pain by manipulating the spine and releasing tension in the muscles around it. This helps to improve blood flow and encourages the release of endorphins, which can reduce inflammation and pain.
Back pain chiropractors may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as exercise and healthy eating, to further improve your health and relieve back pain. Overall, chiropractic care can be an effective way to treat chronic back pain and improve your overall quality of life.
- Neck Pain
Chiropractors help with neck pain by making adjustments to the spine. This can help ease pressure on the nerves and improve the range of motion in the neck. Chiropractic care may also include massage, heat/cold therapy, and stretches. These treatments can help to decrease inflammation, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing.
Why Visit A Chiropractor?
Chiropractors are experts in spinal health and can help you achieve and maintain a healthy spine. They can also help with conditions such as neck pain, back pain, and headaches. If you’re looking for an alternative to medication or surgery, chiropractic care may be the right choice for you. Here are some of the reasons you need to visit a chiropractor:
- Low-risk treatment
Chiropractic care is a drug-free, low-risk treatment for musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. Chiropractors use hands-on adjustments and other techniques to relieve pain and improve function.
A growing body of research supports the effectiveness of chiropractic care for treating back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other musculoskeletal conditions. In fact, the American College of Physicians now recommends chiropractic care as the first line of treatment for low back pain.
- Personal Approach
A chiropractor takes a personal approach to health. After a consultation and examination, the chiropractor will develop a treatment plan specific to your needs. The chiropractor will also provide guidance on how to improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle changes.
- On-Demand Treatment
Chiropractors are one of the few healthcare professionals who offer on-demand treatment. That means you don’t need a referral from another doctor to see a chiropractor, and you don’t need to wait long periods of time for an appointment.
How Often Should You See A Chiropractor For The Best Results
The frequency of chiropractic visits will vary depending on the individual and the nature of their condition. In general, it’s recommended that people seek chiropractic care on a weekly basis for the first six weeks, then taper off to once or twice monthly visits as their symptoms improve.
For those with chronic pain or other more serious conditions, more frequent visits may be necessary at first, then less frequent as the condition improves. Some people find they need to visit a chiropractor on a regular basis to maintain their results and prevent their symptoms from returning. You should always listen to your chiropractor’s recommendations and go as often as they suggest for the best results.
What To Expect During Your First Visit To A Chiropractor
When you visit a chiropractor, they will first ask you about your medical history and symptoms. They may also perform a physical exam, which may include feeling your spine, checking your posture, and testing your range of motion. X-rays may also be taken to help determine the cause of your symptoms. If they think chiropractic care can help you, they will develop a treatment plan specific to your needs.
The goal of the first visit is to determine if there is a misalignment in your spine that is causing pain or other health problems. Chiropractors use spinal manipulation to correct these misalignments.
You may experience some discomfort during the adjustment, but this should only last for a few seconds. Most people feel better after their first adjustment.
Can I Continue Seeing My Regular Doctor While Also Seeing A Chiropractor
It is generally recommended that you consult with your regular doctor before starting chiropractic care. This is because chiropractic care can have a significant impact on the body’s overall function, and it is important to make sure that all potential interactions between your regular care and chiropractic care are considered.
If you are currently seeing a chiropractor and are happy with the results, it is likely safe to continue seeing both practitioners. However, it is always important to consult with your regular doctor to ensure that there are no conflicts between the treatments you are receiving.
The bottom line is chiropractic care is a great option for those who are experiencing neck or back pain. At Peak Potential Family Chiropractic, we specialize in helping people get relief from chronic pain. We offer a variety of services that can help improve your quality of life. Our services include chiropractic care, nutritional counseling, and massage therapy. We also offer a free consultation so you can learn more about how we can help you achieve your health goals!
If you’re ready to feel your best, contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Reach Out To Our Office Today!
Contact Peak Potential Family Chiropractic today for a complimentary consultation. We would love to discuss what issues you may have and create a plan of action to get you back to a healthy lifestyle.