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Why More People Are Choosing Chiropractic

Chiropractic care is enjoying an upsurge in popularity as more people are veering away from invasive procedures and pharmaceuticals in favor of more natural treatment options for their pain. A recent Gallup poll for Palmer Chiropractic College confirms this. Of the people surveyed:

More than 35.5 million people said they sought chiropractic care within the 12 month (the Gallup survey was conducted from February 8, 2016 through March 11, 2016).
95% said chiropractic was effective in treating their condition.
89% said they would recommend chiropractic to friends and family.
97% said that they would likely see a chiropractor for neck or back pain.
88% said that chiropractic care is a good value for the money.

Non-Drug Treatments for Back Pain should be Sought First

In April 2017, the American College of Physicians published their updated guidelines for managing and treating low back pain. In it, they recommended seeking non-drug treatments which include the application of heat, exercise, stress reduction, and spinal manipulation before turning to medications. The purpose is to steer patients away from unnecessary medicating and toward healthier, more natural options as a first line of defense in managing low back pain.

Another study published in2017 in the Journal of the American Medical Association supported spinal manipulation as a preferred first treatment option over pharmaceuticals for patients with acute low back pain. While these recommendations are primarily in response to the opioid epidemic, it is also in response to the numerous studies that show chiropractic care is safe and effective for back pain management.

Chiropractic is a Healthier, Safer Option

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that opioid abuse and overdose has reach epidemic proportions. An estimated 91 Americans die every day from an opioid overdose. This includes opioids obtained by a prescription from a doctor.

Popular pain medications like oxycodone and hydrocodone have seen steadily increasing abuse, overdose, and death rates over the past two decades. In fact, deaths caused by overdose of these drugs as well as methadone and others, have quadrupled since 1999.

These medications are highly addictive and have many unpleasant and even dangerous side effects. While most states are taking aggressive steps to curb the over-prescribing of these medications, patients are still finding ways around the prescribing guidelines and restrictions. This is a compelling reason for patients to seek natural, non-medicinal pain relief options first – and for their doctors to recommend them.

More People are Turning to Natural Remedies

Many patients are simply getting fed up with invasive treatments and numerous pills, causing them to turn to remedies that are more natural. One benefit of chiropractic and other natural remedies is that they rarely treats only the symptom.

Instead, it addresses the root of the problem to treat the cause. This approach has many benefits beyond being medication free and non-invasive. When the cause of the condition or problem is corrected, it can eliminate other troubling symptoms as well.

Chiropractic is a Healthier, Whole Body Option

A patient who sees their chiropractor for low back pain may find that after a few treatments their headaches, constipation, and digestive issues are also resolved. This is because chiropractic treats the body as a whole, unlike traditional medicine that tends to treat it in parts.

In the body, everything is connected so a problem in one area could easily cause problems in other areas. By correcting the root of the problem, the patient receives more rounded healthcare.

Where traditional medicine will often opt to prescribe a pain pill for lower back pain, chiropractic care looks for the cause of the back pain and treats the pain symptom from the cause. The chiropractor may advise lifestyle changes, changes in diet, and even recommend supplements. With chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity increasing at an alarming rate, chiropractic care offers a solution that treats the body as a whole in a more natural, safer way.

Why Hydration Is Important To Your Spine

Posted on 03.30.20 | Leave a Comment

Water. We know that it is a vital part of our health and well being. Doctors and experts have been telling us for decades. You probably already knew that adequate hydration promotes optimal organ function, good digestion, healthier skin, and even encourages a healthy weight, but did you know it is also vital for good spine health? Just as the rest of your body needs water to function properly, so does your spine. When you don’t drink enough water, and become dehydrated (even mildly) it can create problems, some of them painful.

If you want good spinal health, you have to stay well hydrated. This is because of the way the spine is constructed.

Dehydration can lead to pain, poor mobility, limited range of motion, and decreased flexibility. Your spine will age much faster and this can have a ripple effect throughout the body. The spine is the foundation for the body and provides the pathway for neural impulses. When it isn’t working, most of the body isn’t working.

The Spine

In order to understand why water and good hydration play such an important role in spinal health, you first need to understand how the spine is constructed and how it uses the water.

The spine is a column, made of vertebrae that are connected to each other by small joints. Between each vertebra is a fluid filled disc. This disc cushions each vertebra so the bones don’t rub against each other, especially when moving or bending. It also acts somewhat like a shock absorber to that the spine does not take the full impact of movement which could cause damage.

Each disc is comprised of two parts. The center, called the nucleus pulposis, is filled with fluid. This is what protects the bones. The tough, outer ring is flexible, but strong, protecting the disc. The ring is filled with a sort of gel but the disc itself is made up of water.

If there is not enough water in the disc it cannot cushion the bone properly and this can lead to spinal problems. It can be very painful. This is what makes hydration so important.

As a person ages the discs don’t rehydrate as easily so it is particularly important for older people to drink lots of water. A sedentary lifestyle can also exacerbate the problem, making it more difficult to rehydrate the discs.

Why is Water Important?

As soon as you get out of bed in the morning, gravity starts working against your spine. Whether you are sitting or standing – and as you move about – you are putting pressure on it, causing the vertebrae to compress the discs. This squeezes the water out. If the water it not replenished, you could find yourself with some painful spinal problems.

Drinking lots of water throughout the day helps to keep your body hydrated. A body that is well hydrated can replenish the water that was lost in the discs.

The thing is, you don’t have to be completely dehydrated to feel the ill effects. Even being slightly dehydrated can begin to cause problems. If the dehydration is prolonged, those problems can become serious.

It is important that you drink water as opposed to sodas. Aside from the sodium, sugars, and unidentifiable chemicals that you put into your body every time you drink one, sodas do not provide enough water to your body to be useful. You need to go for plain water.

If you don’t like water, there are ways you can flavor it without spending a lot or using ingredients like aspartame. Cut a lemon, lime, or orange and let it sit in the water to infuse. Mint is also nice, but you can also slice some strawberries and put them in a pitcher of water for a refreshing, fruity drink.

So, drink your water. Your spine will thank you.

Why We Get Shorter As We Age

Posted on 03.23.20 | Leave a Comment

If you are in your 40s, and you measured your height, chances are you would not be the same height that you were in, say, high school. It’s true. As we get older, we tend to shrink. A French study in 2010, measures more than 8,000 women who were over the age of 60. They then asked each woman to estimate her own height. Nearly all of the women in the study overestimated their height. Some overestimated by as much as 2 inches. This is not wishful thinking on the women’s part; they were recalling their tallest height. Shrinking in stature is a normal part of the aging process, but there are ways you can stop it – or at least slow it down.

What Causes People to Shrink?

There are several reasons why a person may lose some height as they age:

A condition like osteoporosis can cause loss of bone density, leading to a compression fracture which is essentially a collapse of the vertebrae
Flattening of the feet. As we age our arches flatten out and this can take inches off our height
Dehydration of the discs that lie between each vertebra. The dehydration can cause the discs to com press.
A stooped posture caused by loss of muscle in the core or abdomen

Getting Shorter by the Numbers

It is estimated that the average person will lose about ¼ to ½ inch every decade after they turn 40 (although some estimates say 30 and others say 50). Women are also more prone to height loss than men. The Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA) found that between 30 and 70 years of age, women lost, on the average, 2 inches while men lost around 1 inch of height. By the age of 80, women had lost a little more than 3 inches while men lost 2. However, with all of the varying factors, some people will lose more and others will lose less – and some don’t shrink an inch.

Health Implications of Height Loss

It is important to know that height loss can be an indicator of a problem. Probably the most concerning of the conditions is skeletal problems, such as a compression fracture.

Such a condition can be debilitating, causing back pain and mobility problems. Muscle loss can also cause pain, as can compressed discs. It is important to stay on top of it, get ahead of any potential problems.

Height loss can also be a symptoms of other problems that are physiological or metabolic in nature. It can also indicate inadequate nutrition or poor health. In short, if you experience height loss, it may be in your best interest to pay attention and talk to your doctor.

Combating the Shrinkage

While genetics does play a large part in certain conditions that can cause you to lose height, there are some things you can do that may help. If you are still below the threshold age, start now to take care of yourself, get the proper nutrition, exercise, get enough sleep, and drink plenty of water. The better foundation that you build when you are young, the better off you will be as you age.

Older people may be able to slow the shrinkage by eating a healthy diet that is rich in calcium, doing weight bearing exercises, staying hydrated, and avoiding unhealthy practices such as drinking alcohol and smoking. Study after study shows that exercise works, so that should be a priority. Hydration is also key. In the end, the better you take care of your body when you are young, the better care it will take of you when you are older.

3 Stretches You Can Do For Neck Pain

Posted on 03.23.20 | Leave a Comment

Stretching is often an outstanding complement to chiropractic care. Blood flow to the muscles is increased and it helps lower the risk of injury and improves physical performance. More importantly, stretching is good for the joints, helping them function through their full range of motion.

Additionally, some studies show that muscles work and move more effectively when they are stretched regularly. These benefits of stretching make it a great practice to incorporate into your daily routine, especially between chiropractic treatments.

The muscles all along the spine respond well to stretching. However, sometimes it is difficult to manipulate specific muscle groups and get an effective stretch.

The cervical spine is a prime example. Although the neck turns in so many ways, finding positions that provide an effective stretch are surprisingly difficult.

These three stretches effectively work the muscles through the neck and shoulders, and are simple enough to do at home whether you are between chiropractic appointments or if you wake up with a crick in your neck.

Before You Stretch

If you are under a chiropractor’s care, you should check with him or her before you start a stretching program. This is especially important if you have a neck injury or have a spinal condition that causes deterioration or pain.

When you begin stretching, you may feel a little discomfort, but it is important to note that it should never cause pain or worsen it. If this occurs, or if it just doesn’t feel “right,” you should stop immediately and call your chiropractor.

Neck and Trap Stretch

If standing: Stand up straight with your pelvis slightly tucked (not swayback), feet shoulder’s width apart, knees soft.

If sitting: Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor.

1. Drop your shoulders and roll them slightly back. Let your arms hang down.

2. Reach behind your back and, with your left hand, grasp your right wrist. If you can’t reach to grasp your wrist, grab your fingers. If you can’t reach your fingers, sit in a straight back chair and put your right arm as far behind you as you can and slide your right hand under your right buttock to provide stability.

3. If clasping your hands behind you, gently pull your arm behind you to the left. If unable to reach behind you, drop your right shoulder.

4. At the same time, tilt your head to the left, bringing your ear to your shoulder but don’t raise your left shoulder. You will feel the stretch all along the right muscles of the neck.

5. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds.

6. Do the same movement for the left side.

7. Repeat the full move 3 to 5 times.

Gentle Neck Extension

If standing: Stand up straight with your pelvis slightly tucked (not swayback), feet shoulder’s width apart, knees soft, hands relaxed and at your sides.

If sitting: Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor, hands relaxed and at your sides.

If lying down: Lie flat on the floor. If necessary, put a pillow under your knees to take pressure off of the lower back. Stretch your arms down by your side.

1. Push your shoulders down towards your feet.

2. Tuck your chin to your chest but don’t let your shoulders lift.

3. Slowly raise your chin, feeling the stretch along the front of your neck. Hold the position for 20 to 30 seconds.

4. Return your head to its normal, upright position for 30 seconds. Repeat the entire movement 5 to 7 times.

Stretch for Traps

If standing: Stand up straight with your pelvis slightly tucked (not swayback), feet shoulder’s width apart, knees soft, hands relaxed and at your sides.

If sitting: Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor, hands relaxed and at your sides.

If lying down: Lie flat on the floor. If necessary, put a pillow under your knees to take pressure off of the lower back. Stretch your arms down by your side.

1. Start with your head in the normal, upright position.

2. Bend your neck to the right side, moving your ear towards your shoulder.

3. Raise your left hand to your head and apply gentle pressure to facilitate the stretch while drawing up your left shoulder. Hold for 20 seconds.

4. Return to your starting position.

5. Repeat the same movement on the right side.

6. Do 3 to 5 sets.

Preventing Degenerative Disc Disease

Posted on 03.23.20 | Leave a Comment

Degenerative disc disease is a condition that can affect your spinal discs as you age. Due to stress and injury throughout your life, your spinal discs may begin to deteriorate and cause pain. Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent degenerative disc disease, but researchers have discovered a few ways that you may be able to slow down the process.

Why it Matters:

The curves of your spine are designed to balance and distribute the load placed on your spinal discs by gravity. Several studies have found that changes to the curves of your spine may result in a higher likelihood of experiencing back pain. We recommend taking proactive steps to maintain a strong and flexible spine like daily exercise, stretching, and periodic chiropractic adjustments.

Here are three key action steps you can take to slow down degenerative disc disease:

Stop Smoking – According to medical researchers, there is an association between smoking and degenerative disc disease. Smoking could even cause the condition to become worse and more painful.
Live an Active Lifestyle – To keep your spinal discs healthy, you need to incorporate an active lifestyle. Focus on taking the proactive steps mentioned above: exercise daily, stretch and see your chiropractor.
Pay Attention to Your Nutrition – You need the right nutrition to maintain the proper function of your discs, bones, and other areas of your body. Your diet should include a good balance of minerals, vitamins, and omega fatty acids.

Next Steps:

Getting older doesn’t mean that you are destined to suffer from the effects of degenerative disc disease. By taking a proactive approach with your spinal health today, you can give yourself the best opportunity to stay active and pain-free for years to come. To learn more about how to live an active lifestyle, visit our Facebook page today!

Science Source:

MRI Changes in Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease. EJOST. 2016.

What Is Myasthenia Gravis?

Posted on 03.16.20 | Leave a Comment

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare condition, with fewer than 200,000 cases showing up in the United States each year. It is marked by muscle weakness, difficulty with speech, double vision, and difficulty chewing.

Myasthenia Gravis: Signs and Symptoms

Myasthenia Gravis is a chronic condition and the symptoms may come and go. During “exacerbation” the patient may notice a worsening of the symptoms or more symptoms. During “remission” the symptoms may decrease or even disappear completely. Often the symptoms will become worse with activity or use and get better when the patient rests.

MG is a progressive disease with extreme muscle weakness as the primary symptom. The condition only affects the voluntary muscle groups so the muscles that control the gastrointestinal tract and the heart are not affected.

In its early stages, it often with ocular weakness when it affects the muscles that control how the eyes and eyelids move. This leads to a partial paralysis of those muscles, resulting in droopy eyelids and double vision.

Another early symptom is fatigue and weakness in the jaw and neck, making activities like chewing, swallowing, talking, and even holding up the head very difficult. Speech tends to become slurred with a nasal quality. The weakness can also make swallowing difficult or impossible, leading to choking spells that can make even the simple act of eating quite traumatic and exhausting.

Sometimes the condition never progresses past affecting the ocular nerves. Typically, it reaches peak severity within one to three years and if it doesn’t progress past ocular within that time, it usually remains that way.

If the condition does progress, the weakness will continue its path from the head and neck, spreading to the shoulders, arms, and hands. If it continues, it will reach the lower limbs. As the weakness spreads, the patient may find it difficult to lift their arms over their head, walk for long distances, rise from a seated position, grip heavy objects, or climb stairs. However, myasthenia gravis patients very rarely become wheelchair bound.

It may also affect the muscles that control breathing. This can make the condition life threatening.

Common Treatments for Myasthenia Gravis

There are medications available that are used to treat myasthenia gravis. Anticholinesterase agents help to increase the strength of the muscles and improve neuromuscular transmission. Immunosuppressive drugs are also used to help increase muscle strength by suppressing the body’s production of abnormal antibodies. However, there can be harmful side effects associated with these drugs.

Another common treatment is surgery where the thymus gland is removed. This method is effective in about 70 percent of patients who undergo it. Plasmapheresis is also used to remove the abnormal antibodies from the blood and modify the immune system. These are invasive procedures that carry some risk or complications or infection.

Acupuncture for Myasthenia Gravis

There are several studies that show how effective Acupuncture is for myasthenia gravis. In some cases, the patients were completely healed of the condition with no symptoms. They were able to stop their medication and life a regular, full life.

Acupuncture helps the body function optimally reducing the symptoms of myasthenia gravis. With regular treatment, myasthenia gravis patients can expect a dramatic improvement of their symptoms. This natural, noninvasive treatment option is safe and effective with no harmful or unpleasant side effects.

What Is Ulcerative Colitis?

Posted on 03.16.20 | Leave a Comment

Most people don’t think of chiropractic to treat conditions that do not involve the spine, but study after study shows it is effective in treating a wide variety of health issues. Ulcerative colitis seems to have no real connection with the spine, yet patients and researches alike are touting the effectiveness of chiropractic care to treat the condition. This is due, in part to chiropractic’s approach to whole body wellness, but spinal alignments are incorporated into the care as well. Bottom line, chiropractic care is extremely effective in treating uncreative colitis and many patients are finding relief from their symptoms and discomfort.

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a disease that causes ulcers (sores) and inflammation in the rectum and colon. Typically, only the sigmoid colon (the lower portion of the colon) is affected, along with the rectum.

However, the entire colon can be affected and the percentage of the colon that is affected tends to coincide with the disease’s severity of the symptoms. While ulcerative colitis can affect people of any age, the majority of people who are diagnosed with it are younger than 30 years old.

Researchers are not certain what causes ulcerative colitis, but many believe that it occurs when the body’s immune system over reacts to bacteria that naturally occurs within the body, specifically in the digestive tract. There also seems to be a genetic predisposition for the disease; it tends to run in families.

What are the Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis?

The type and severity of symptoms that present with ulcerative colitis depend upon how advanced or severe depends on which area of the colon is affected and how severe the condition is. The symptoms may subside or disappear for several weeks at a time (there are some patient reports stating they had no symptoms for years), then they return. About half the people with ulcerative colitis experience mild effects.

The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis include:

Diarrhea – This is the most common symptom. The diarrhea may have pus or blood in it, but it is possible to have blood in the stool and not have the ability to see it. In severe cases, the urge to go to the restroom to empty the colon may come on suddenly and powerfully. It may happen after a meal or after eating certain foods. Other times there may be no discernable pattern; it can happen at any time, even waking the patient out of a dead sleep.
Pain – The most common type of pain with ulcerative colitis is in the belly and may feel somewhat cramping. However, some patients report joint soreness and photophobia (sensitivity to light) accompanied by eye pain.
Nausea – The cramping can cause nausea, as well as the condition itself.
Fatigue – The other symptoms such as pain and nausea can cause fatigue, but effects of the disease such as swelling in the colon and bleeding in the colon that depletes the body of red blood cells can also cause extreme tiredness.
Dehydration – This can be caused by the diarrhea.
Weight loss – Caused by the diarrhea and loss of appetite. The body may not be able to adequately absorb the nutrition from foods due to the disease, so weight loss and malnutrition follow.
Sores – Mouth and skin sores may form as well as rashes.

What Treatments are Available for Ulcerative Colitis?

Different people are affected differently when they are battling ulcerative colitis. Patients with mild symptoms may be able to take an over the counter medication that treats diarrhea.

Acupuncture has been shown to reduce the severity and symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Acupuncture helps the body function optimally reduce the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

The majority of patients with the disease take prescription medications that help decrease the immune response in the body. Lifestyle and dietary changes may reduce flare ups of ulcerative colitis . If the disease is very severe, the patient may need to undergo surgery and have their colon removed.

How to Fix a Slipped Disc

Posted on 03.16.20 | Leave a Comment

Slipped or herniated discs happen when the inside of your spinal disc pushes through the disc’s exterior. Believe it or not, most herniated discs don’t cause any pain or symptoms. However, if you’re struggling with sudden pain after lifting or twisting, a herniated disc certainly may be to blame.

Why it Matters:

As you age, your spinal discs become less flexible, and that can make you more prone to tearing or herniating a disc as you lift or twist. The good news is that over 95% of spinal disc herniations can be resolved without drugs or surgery.

Here are a few tips to recover from a herniated disc:

Exercise: Low back mobility and stability exercises have been shown to have positive effects on recovery from lumbar disc herniations. Exercise can also help with your proprioception, or awareness in space, which can reduce your risk of re-injury.

Chiropractic: Depending on your specific condition, our care may include gentle spinal adjustments to improve your range of motion and decrease pain, as well as stretching and strengthening exercises aimed at returning your spine to its normal function

Support: Back braces can help give you extra support as you begin your care and treatment – but be careful. Using a brace over a long period of time is not recommended. They should only be used short-term to help relieve the pressure on your low back as you return to your normal daily activities.

Next Steps:

Many leading healthcare organizations have recommended chiropractic care for the care and treatment of disc issues. Discover more information to improve your health by visiting our website and Facebook Page today.

Science Source(s):

Herniated Disc. Mayo Clinic 2020

Effect of Lumbar Stabilization Exercise on Disc Herniation Index, Sacral Angle, and Functional Improvement in Patients With Lumbar Disc Herniation. Journal of Physical Therapy Science 2017

Top 7 Tips To Keep Your Immune System Strong

Posted on 03.12.20 | Leave a Comment

Top 7 Tips to Keep Your Immune System Strong

1. Sleep

A good night’s sleep is probably the best medicine for the immune system! Sleep deprivation actually depresses our immune systems, which is why it’s so important to get at least 8 hours of quality sleep per night.

It’s best to fall asleep by 10 pm since your body makes the most melatonin from 10 pm to 2 am. Ensuring you avoid blue light from your screens will also optimize melatonin production which is required for healthy immune function. I also recommend wearing blue light blocking glasses when the sun goes down.

2. Sunlight

Getting out in nature and in the sun is required for proper immune function. The sun is the best source of Vitamin D which helps to strengthen the immune system. Vitamin D is vital to proper immune function. Getting out in nature has profound immune-boosting benefits. So leave your phone behind and try to get out for a walk in nature every day!

3. Anti-inflammatory, Whole Food Diet

An anti-inflammatory diet helps to strengthen the immune system in several different ways. One of the most important ways is that it helps to balance the gut microbiome. When we consume a healthy anti-inflammatory diet, we ensure that our gut bacteria are well balanced. When our gut bacteria is balanced then our immune system is balanced. Eighty percent of our immune system actually lies in our digestive tract so it’s super important to eat a healthy diet to maintain healthy levels of good gut bacteria that promote proper immune function.

An anti-inflammatory, whole food diet is also high in phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support the proper functioning of a healthy immune system. A diet high in sugar, gluten, and dairy can deplete important immune-supportive nutrients such as Vitamin C and zinc. Alcohol consumption can also suppress the immune system. Fermented foods are a great natural source of probiotics and they help to diversify the gut bacteria which helps to strengthen the gut.

4. Meditation/Mindfulness

Meditation and mindfulness help reduce cortisol levels and make us more resilient to stress. When we lower cortisol in the body, our immune system functions better. Increased stress has been shown to decrease immune function so it’s crucial for our health to become more resilient to stress.

5. Intermittent Fasting

Fasting helps to induce a process in the body called autophagy. Autophagy is the process whereby the body eliminates dead and damaged cells. Fasting induced autophagy also helps get rid of bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

One effective and sustainable way to fast is by following the 16/8 regimen. During this type of intermittent fasting, you can eat during an 8 hour period of time every day and fast for the following 16. It’s actually easier than you might think and the health benefits are profound!

6. Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc
These supplements all help to support the immune system. Vitamin C helps to improve immune healthand it’s also a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C can be found in oranges, lemons, limes, spinach, and strawberries.

Zinc is a required mineral for the proper functioning of the immune system. It helps in the formation and development of immune cells such as natural killer cells and neutrophils. Studies have shown that zinc shortens the duration of the common cold and flu. Zinc can be found in pumpkin seeds, legumes, nuts, and animal proteins.

Vitamin C: 1000 mg twice a day
Vitamin D3: 5000 IU once a day
Zinc: 1 capsule once daily

7. Handwashing

Washing hands thoroughly (back, front, in between fingers and nails) with soap for the duration of 20 seconds (singing the happy birthday song twice) is the best way to keep pathogens from entering your body!

Implementing these practices on a daily basis will not only help to keep your immune system strong but will also help to increase energy, decrease inflammation, and reduce unnecessary weight!

Why Chiropractic Adjustments Are Just As Important As Dental Exams

Posted on 03.9.20 | Leave a Comment

Regular preventative care and maintenance are integral to good health. The better you treat your body, the better it will treat you. Unfortunately, you can’t always see or know when there is a problem and regular check-ups can help you stay ahead of potential health problems that could significantly impact your quality of life. However, many people only see their chiropractor when they have a problem like pain or immobility. What they don’t realize is that they may have prevented the issue had they been undergoing regular chiropractic adjustments.

Just as they can prevent serious dental issues when they undergo regular dental check-ups.

The Importance of Regular Dental Exams

Most people get regular dental exams each year without know all of the reasons why it is so important. Dental care is more than just caring for teeth; it is a crucial part of caring for your health.

Dental visits help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Gum disease and poor dental health have been linked to a variety of health issues, including heart disease. In fact, researchers have drawn a direct line between tooth loss and heart disease. What’s more, regular oral exams and teeth cleaning can lead to the detection of early stage medical conditions, some of which can be life threatening which include:

Leukemia
Heart disease
Oral cancer
Diabetes
Kidney disease
Pancreatic cancer

Studies show that these and other systemic diseases have some type of oral manifestation such as dry mouth, swollen gums, excessive gum problems, and mouth ulcers.

In the long run, good oral care that includes regular dental exams can save you a lot of time and money because you will catch many problems before they get out of hand and can incur great expense.

The Importance of Regular Chiropractic Adjustments

Just like regular dental care can help you stay healthy, regular chiropractic can also be very beneficial to your health. Chiropractors treat so much more than just pain!

Regular chiropractic adjustments help to keep the body in balance which allows the organs to function more efficiently. What’s more, regular chiropractic treatments put you in frequent, close contact with a health professional who can spot potential problems or the early stages of chronic diseases.

The benefits extend beyond that though. Regular chiropractic care helps you stay flexible and mobile which helps prevent many conditions that are related to aging. It also naturally treats a myriad of health conditions including:

Back pain
Blood pressure
Arthritis
Headaches
Joint pain
Neck pain
Scoliosis

It also improves organ function and can help you avoid surgery and provides a natural, healthy alternative to medications that can be addictive and have harmful side effects.

Another added benefit of chiropractic care is the whole-body approach to wellness. Your chiropractor will look at your lifestyle, habits, diet, and exercise regimen and recommend changes and modifications that will help you live a healthier, fuller life.

Sure, they are there to help when you have a problem such as pain, but, like your dentist, they can also be the front line to better health care decisions and a healthier you. The natural approach that chiropractors take to healthcare also means that they typically see issues from a different perspective and may pick up on clues that your medical doctor might miss.

So, while you are scheduling your next dental check-up, make it a point to visit your chiropractor as well and talk to him or her about creating a plan for regular chiropractic adjustments. Your body will thank you and you will find that you are healthier for it.