SPINAL MISALIGNMENT

Spinal Misalignment and Chiropractic Care

The spine is a column of bones (vertebrae) that runs from the base of the skull to the pelvis. The spine supports and protects the spinal cord, which carries nerves signals to the brain and back to the body. When the spine is at its optimal level of health, movement and nerve signaling can occur freely. Shifts in the vertebral alignment can impact posture, cause muscular discomfort, and even produce painful bone-on-bone friction. When the spine is misaligned, it can also cause irritation and impairment of the nerves that extend from the spinal cord and run throughout the body.

How a chiropractor helps to keep the spine healthy

A chiropractor searches for and corrects spinal subluxations, or misalignments, of the vertebrae. Subluxations are points of impairment. They can happen in specific segments of the spine, or in full regions, such as the neck area. These alignment issues can cause substantial whole-body problems. The body’s systems are interconnected. Poor spinal health can interfere with the functions of many other systems and pathways throughout the body. Unhealthy lifestyle habits and oversights can wreak havoc on the spine long before pain and movement restriction appears. Therefore, visiting a chiropractor to maintain proper spinal alignment can intervene as a preventative measure, even before people feel pain or other discomforts. When chiropractors address or prevent these subluxations, it can help to heal the body naturally. Removing what interferes with the natural, healthy function of the body can help the body to work better without making any challenging lifestyle changes. However, when the spine is functioning optimally, the body generally responds better to proper nutrition, exercise programs, and detoxification protocols.

What to expect during a chiropractic visit

When you visit a chiropractor, your spine will be examined for abnormalities that should be corrected or adjusted. You should tell your chiropractor about any existing medical conditions, any medications (prescription or over-the-counter) you are taking, and any dietary supplements you use. During your first visit, a chiropractor, these actions may be taken:

  • An in-depth health history
  • A physical exam with emphasis on the spine
  • X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasound diagnostics may be requested 
  • Visual analysis, palpation checks, or physical testing may be performed
  • Development a unique and comprehensive  health plan if chiropractic care applies to your condition
  • Chiropractic spinal adjustment or manipulation

A spinal adjustment helps reduce pain and restore joint mobility. A controlled force is applied manually to spinal joints that have become restricted in their movement. A manipulation can restore mobility and alleviate pain and other discomforts while simultaneously promoting whole-body healing.

Chiropractic care for life

Even a single adjustment can do a great deal of good. Repeated spinal manipulations can further the potential for healing. Once a balanced spine is achieved, many patients add a dietary regimen and supporting lifestyle changes. Furthermore, many patients continue to get spinal manipulations after their initial condition is healed as a preventative maintenance measure. Indeed, chiropractic care becomes part of a lifelong health care plan for many individuals.