2 Problems That Can Be Treated By Chiropractic Therapy
Posted on: 12 September 2016
Chiropractic treatment is a popular alternative therapy that can be used to treat a variety of conditions. Chiropractors use "manual therapies" (treatment using the hands) to correct disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially focusing on the manipulation of the spine. Such manual therapy can be effective in treating certain conditions like the following.
Slipped Disc
What Is It?
The spine is composed of small bones called vertebrae. The vertebrae are separated by soft, circular pads called discs. These discs have an outer layer of tough cartilage that surrounds a gel-like center, making them relatively soft and flexible. The discs help "cushion" the vertebrae and ensure the flexibility of the spine.
If these discs become damaged, the outer layer of cartilage can spilt, and the gel inside can protrude out. This protrusion can put pressure on the spinal nerves, which can cause pain in certain body areas. Spinal disc damage is often the result of age, as over time the discs become less flexible and more likely to split.
How Does Chiropractic Therapy Help?
Chiropractic therapy can be used to treat a slipped disc, mainly by helping to relieve pain. The chiropractor will first carry out an evaluation of the spine, in order to develop an appropriate treatment plan. This will usually involve manual therapy and therapeutic exercises.
Common chiropractic techniques used in the treatment of slipped discs include the flexion-distraction technique and manipulation under anaesthesia (MUA). Flexion-distraction involves placing the patient on a special table that gently stretches (distracts) the spine, whilst the chiropractor carefully flexes the spine using a "pumping" rhythm. MUA is a more serious procedure, which is usually performed at a hospital. The anaesthetic relaxes the body, allowing the chiropractor to effectively stretch and manipulate the spine.
Fibromyalgia
What Is It?
Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes chronic pain all over the body. Fibromyalgia can also cause headaches, muscle stiffness, insomnia and increased sensitivity to pain. Fibromyalgia is thought to be related to abnormal levels of certain chemicals in the brain, which affects the way the nervous system processes pain. This increased level of chemicals is usually triggered by a stressful event, such as a serious operation or the death of a loved one.
How Does Chiropractic Therapy Help?
Chiropractic therapy has been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of fibromyalgia, especially in reducing associated neck and back pain. Spine re-alignment and soft tissue work are often used by chiropractors to treat fibromyalgia-related pain. Chiropractic therapy may also help to increase the range of motion in the body's joints, which can both allow the patient to move more easily and boost sleep quality.
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