Following up from last week’s health tip, here are some additional questions and answers that might help when you are exploring the world of holistic Chiropractic. Our hope is that the following responses will help you find the chiropractor best suited your unique health care needs.
Q: What is a chiropractic adjustment and are all adjustments the same?
First a disclaimer; not all chiropractors apply chiropractic in the same way. Although the effort of all chiropractors is directed towards the optimal function of the body’s nervous system, the methods each use can be very diverse. While some chiropractors focus their efforts towards relieving physical issues affecting the nervous system, others assist their patients with nutritional and even emotional issues that are affecting the nervous system. Many chiropractors use a variety of chiropractic techniques and tools to bring about better balance to the body. As you interview chiropractors, ask them which techniques they use and as you experience each, you can determine which method is best suited for you.
Q: Can I adjust myself?
Every now and then you meet people who will twist and turn their spines making popping sounds to adjust themselves. Although they may say it relieves the discomfort they were feeling, as chiropractors we cringe when we see this. Although often counterproductive to what a chiropractic adjustment is trying to achieve, when a person attempts to adjust themselves, they are often making an already unstable area of the spine even more unstable. Adding pressure like this to joints that are already freely movable, puts unnecessary stress on the spine. Moving them further may lead to even more discomfort later on. Chiropractic adjustments always isolate specific areas of the spine with restricted motion and free them up by applying pressure specifically to those areas.
Q: Why do children need chiropractic?
Babies can experience significant spinal trauma at birth and enlightened parent’s will often have their newborn’s spines checked by a chiropractor. Because their bones are new and not as brittle as they will be at older ages, they seem to be able to take a lot of wear and tear. However, as a child grows they will take on many different experiences (ex. growing pains, bicycling, walking, etc.) that can potentially cause long term spinal challenges. Regular checkups with a knowledgeable chiropractor can help children to avoid these long term problems that can creep up later on as adults. Many of our adult patients tell us that their children enjoy the chiropractic adjustments as much as they do and seem the them healthier than their children’s friends who are not regularly checked. Naturally, chiropractic procedures are modified for children and you may want to consider finding a chiropractor who specializes in pediatric care. Many of these chiropractors can be found through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association.
Making informed choices about your health can be one of the most empowering decisions in your life. As always, our primary goal is to help you make educated and empowering decisions regarding your health. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about utilizing the various methods of Chiropractic care for your healthcare needs.