Chiropractic, meaning “done by hand”, is an alternative medicine that involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the skeletal and muscular systems. It removes structural and postural imbalances from the spine and other joints to allow uninterrupted nerve flow between the brain and the corresponding systems and subsequently accelerate the healing process. Treatment consists of manual therapy of the spine, joints, and surrounding soft tissue. Exercise, massage therapy, vitamin supplementation, and lifestyle modifications are incorporated into treatment to improve overall health.

The philosophy of Chiropractic is that the body has the innate intelligence to heal itself and that the body is controlled by the brain and the stimuli it sends and receives. Any mechanical or neurological dysfunction left undiagnosed and untreated can result in disorder, dysfunction, and ultimately, disease.

An “adjustment” is a specific manipulation applied to a vertebrae or joint that exhibits abnormal movement or fails to function properly resulting in paresthesias (numbness) or radiculitis (i.e. sciatica). It is a high velocity, low force thrust which can result in joint gases being released producing an audible pop (cavitation). At times, restrictions surrounding the joint make it more difficult to release movement and cavitation does not occur. This does not mean the joint movement did not occur as is often misunderstood by patients. Repeated, forceful manipulations to try and achieve cavitation can often result in inflammation and increased pain/discomfort in the area.

Although Chiropractic is widely known to treat neck and low back pain, this healing art can be utilized for numerous problems or disorders. Headaches, Tennis Elbow, Golfer’s Elbow, shin splints, costochondritis, scoliosis, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Post-Concussive Syndrome and Fibromyalgia are just a few of the myriad of conditions treatable through Chiropractic care.

Sinus problems can also be addressed through a specific technique known as Craniosacral Therapy which addresses the function and movement of the plates that form the skull.

Extremity adjustments are equally as important as spinal manipulations. These joint dysfunctions are often caused by overuse or disuse, misuse, trauma, or muscular imbalance, and can cause problems in other parts of the body due to overcompensation. For example, a shoulder with limited range of motion and muscle atrophy can lead to neck dysfunction and headaches. Ankle dysfunction can lead to low back pain.

For more information, please feel free to call our office and schedule a free consultation. I would be happy to speak with you and spend the time to determine if I can help with your health problems.