What is Chiropractic?

If you are like most people in America, you most likely think Chiropractic is about back pain and the human spine. This is really only a part of the story. Today's blog post will shed some light on what Chiropractic is all about.

The focus of Chiropractic care is to decrease irritation or interference to your nervous system. This is important, because the human nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and nerves) is the "Master System" or "Master Controller" of all your body's systems. In fact, every cell, tissue, organ, or organ system is under control (directly or indirectly) of your nervous system.

Therefore, if your body is going to function optimally, you must have a healthy nervous system free from interference. So where does the role of the spine come into play?

The spine is made up of 24 bones that protect your spinal cord. They support your body, while allowing your body to bend and twist. Between these bones are nerves that supply the rest of your body with a connection between your cells and your brain. Stress on your body, especially in your spine can irritate these nerves, which can impact how well your brain communicates with your cells. This is why Doctors of Chiropractic (DC) work with your spine, to improve the function of your body. It is simply the best place to access and help your nervous system.

If you have back pain, neck pain or symptoms of discomfort in your body, it is probably safe to say that you have irritation in your nervous system. A chiropractor can help reduce or correct these symptoms, but this is not the main focus of Chiropractic care. Your chiropractor will work with you to eliminate your symptoms and will also advise you on how to improve your overall health naturally. This may include education on proper exercise, nutrition, positive thinking or other healthy lifestyle habits.

The Chiropractic profession is also drug-free and non-surgical. This is a basic foundation of Chiropractic. DC's enter the profession, because they want to help patients heal without the use of drugs or surgery. A simple motto used in my practice is; Chiropractic First, Drugs Second, Surgery Last. Chiropractic provides the patient with a drug-free health care option.

In summary, Chiropractic care is about function. The purpose is to increase the function of your body, by removing interference to your nervous system. As these "Subluxations" (irritations of the nervous system) are corrected, your body will be better equipped to deal and adapt to the stresses of everyday life. Chiropractic care combined a healthy diet, proper exercise and a healthy body-mind can improve your overall level of health and increase your vitality.

To learn more about how Chiropractic affects the health of your body, visit the National Guideline Clearing House, which contains a document with references demonstrating positive outcomes in patients with over 300 different health conditions with Chiropractic care.