Chiropractors see about 35 million patients per year.
But what exactly does a chiropractor do, and how do they differ from a medical doctor? What are the benefits of chiropractic care, and do you need to see one?
In this article, you'll learn why you can benefit from seeing a chiropractor and how it's easier than you think!
A chiropractor is a type of medical professional who specializes in the manipulation of the spine and the nervous system and endures several years of graduate-level education.
Chiropractors believe that many medical problems can be alleviated by adjusting the spine to align the entire body. When the body is out of alignment, the possibility for medical issues to erupt or worsen is likely.
Most chiropractors focus on natural healing methods such as exercises or spinal manipulation or changes in lifestyle habits. Rarely do they prescribe any medications.
Chiropractic treatment offers many benefits to the patient. If you're wondering whether or not to schedule a chiropractic appointment, here are some of the benefits of seeing a chiropractor.
One of the biggest benefits of chiropractic care is relief from pain in the back, neck, and other parts of the body.
This is especially true with whiplash injuries that occur from car accidents. Whiplash causes pain and tenderness in the neck and back, limiting movement and putting a strain on your daily activities. Seeing a chiropractor gets to the root of the problem and helps heal the injuries.
Other soreness related to muscle strains or injury especially in the lower back, maybe helped through chiropractic care.
While pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman's life, it's often occupied by aches and pains. Changes like movement and growth can have a painful impact on the body such as the lower back and hips.
A visit to the chiropractor may help ease some of these discomforts that arise from pregnancy and post-pregnancy. For example, adjustments in the pelvic area provide ample space for birthing.
Seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy is generally considered safe, but talk to your OB/GYN if you're high risk.
Not only do adults benefit from seeing a chiropractor, but children can as well.
Ear infections are one of the most common medical conditions from which children suffer. While it's easily treatable with antibiotics, chronic ear infections may indicate a deeper problem.
Many parents bring their children to the chiropractor for relief from ear infections, especially if they're susceptible to them. Other childhood medical issues that chiropractors see are acid reflux and colic.
Headaches happen to everyone at some point, but migraines and tension headaches can harm your quality of life. Taking over-the-counter medications to manage the pain might work for a while, but over time it could take a toll on your health.
Chiropractors believe that the cause of some headaches is due to spinal misalignment. They work to relieve the muscle tension that's in your body and provide relief from headaches.
High blood pressure is a condition in which the pressure of the blood flow is too strong on your artery walls. About 68 million adults have high blood pressure, even though it shows no symptoms.
Chiropractic care may help lower high blood pressure. Getting adjustments may offer the same effect as taking blood pressure medications, but without all the side effects. Regular trips to your chiropractor may be the key to getting your high blood pressure under control.
Your immune system is your body's first defense against viruses and bacteria. When your immune system is functioning efficiently, you fight illness more quickly or become sick less often.
A chiropractic adjustment may boost your immune system and improve your overall health. This is because the nervous system is "in charge" of your immune system, which may lead to better functionality.
Despite the amazing benefits of chiropractic care, there are some cases in which it may not be beneficial, useful, or safe. Though these reasons are often rare, they may include:
If you're unsure about whether or not you should visit a chiropractor, talk to your doctor, or schedule a consultation with your local chiropractor to discuss the current symptoms you want to alleviate.
Scheduling a visit with a chiropractor is easier than you think! In most cases, you don't need to bring anything with you and the staff works with a time that works well for you.
You may need to discuss your health history with your chiropractor so they know a general overview of your condition and what you want to treat.
Your treatment will vary on a case-by-case basis. For some people, monthly visits may be needed, while for others, visits only a few times per year are enough. Each person's needs are evaluated for an individualized treatment plan.
The benefits of chiropractic care are notable and should be considered as an alternative to traditional medicine. In several cases, a chiropractor may be able to help you without the need for medication and expensive medical treatments.
Are you looking for a chiropractor in the St. Petersburg area? We care about your entire well-being and strive to help you reach your full potential. Contact us about scheduling a consultation today!