An Introduction to Chiropractic
Chiropractic doctors are most commonly sought out for back injuries and soreness, but they can do so much more.
While chiropractic adjustments are scientifically proven to correct all sorts of issues related to the musculoskeletal system (muscles and bones in the body), they can do so much more.
In fact, a chiropractic adjustment is one of the best natural, low risk and non-invasive approaches to health care. And, it’s gentle enough for everyone: children, seniors, those in pain, or even pets!
Scientifically, here's why...
It's all about nerves.
The central nervous system controls most of the functions of the body and connect the network of nerves in the body to the brain through the spinal cord.
It is like a superhighway of communication between the brain and the body.
For the sake of protection, before going throughout the body the nerves pass through a channel inside the spine. If the spine becomes misaligned and pressure is placed on these nerves, it can shut down communication and certain function to areas of the body, causing a host of diseases and ailments as a result.
Even a ¾ degree (or 1 mm) misalignment, or the weight of a nickel, is enough to create interference that limits the communication along a nerve pathway.
To illustrate, think of a garden hose.
If you step on a hose while water is flowing through it, the water coming out the nozzle will be restricted. In the same way, when the spine is misaligned, nerves become compressed or pinched and communication is obstructed.
Only one-third of the body’s nervous system produces pain when nerves are affected. This means that the remaining two-thirds of the body’s nerves will not produce a pain signal, even if they are negatively impacted. Your body may not let you know through pain signals, but a number of common ailments and symptoms may pop up as a result.
Of course, for those experiencing pain and discomfort from muscle tension or a sore back, chiropractic adjustments can bring relief and restore proper function. But the ultimate goal of chiropractic adjustments is to restore communication between affected areas and the brain, removing interference that affects optimal health–often addressing symptoms and issues that you wouldn’t think are connected to the spine at all.
It is one of the best ways to let the body heal itself.
A Word of Caution
Caution is a good thing to exercise when choosing who will perform chiropractic adjustments for you. Chiropractors specialize in the study of the Central Nervous System with years of education and are required to continue in ongoing annual study. The designation of D.C., or Doctor of Chiropractic offers the confidence you require. Visit the Alberta College and Association Chiropractors to learn more.
The Panacea Approach
The specific-symptom-specific-cure approach may be effective for crisis situations like those that require a trip to the emergency room but is not as effective for overall and general health.
It is often the every-problem-one-cure approaches (known as panacea approaches, named after Panacea, the Greek goddess of universal remedy) that provide the greatest health benefits. Cure-all remedies like healthy eating, physical activity and exercise, getting enough sleep, sufficient vitamins and minerals, positively affect all other areas of life.
Because chiropractic treatment restores communication between the brain and the entire body through alignment of the bones around the spinal cord, it is another powerful cure-all, or panacea, approach to your health. The goal of chiropractic is not to treat a specific condition, it is to remove interference in the central nervous system, letting the body do what it does best: naturally heal itself.
More reading:
What causes me to be misaligned in the first place?
Your Custom Care Plan
Chiropractic and You
We work with every patient to develop a custom care plan with you based on your specific needs and goals. We want you to be able to make informed decisions regarding your own health. If you are new to Chiropractic, you can read about what to expect here.
Often our patients are in one of three conditions when they visit us:
Crisis
For those suffering acute pain or discomfort due to injury, chiropractic treatment can be very effective in providing relief.
More reading:
How long will it take to get better?
Are motor vehicle accidents covered?
Correction
For those without substantial injury or pain but who still experience discomfort, muscle tension, or a number of other health symptoms, we focus on a care path that restores health and balance.
More reading:
How often do I need to see a Chiropractor? Do I need to continue forever?
Continuum
Many people come to us to ensure optimal nerve function, proper alignment, stress management, increased immune response and a host of other positive and natural health and wellness benefits provided by regular chiropractic treatment.
More reading:
What's the science behind chiropractic care?
Whatever health situation you find yourself in, we can help and will work with you toward your own specific needs and goals.
Have questions? Let’s connect. Email us or Request an Appointment with Dr. Gary.
...because life should be extraordinary
Request an Appointment
To request an appointment, please Contact Us or complete the Request an Appointment form