Being Thankful for a Healthy Spine: A Reflection on the Benefits of Chiropractic Care
As we enter a season of gratitude, it's the perfect time to reflect on the incredible ways chiropractic care enhances our lives, especially for those who lead active lifestyles or have athletic backgrounds. Here at Move Chiropractic in Lafayette Hill, PA, our wellness-focused chiropractic office has been privileged to witness firsthand the transformative effects of a healthy spine on everyday living.
The spine is more than a structural marvel; it's the superhighway for your nervous system, playing a pivotal role in movement, function, and overall health. The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) states, "Chiropractic services are an important part of the healthcare field for the promotion of wellness and the enhancement of health and function" (1). This sentiment is the cornerstone of our practice, guiding our clients, ranging from 20 to 65 years old, back to their optimal health and athletic performance.
A study in The Spine Journal found that "chiropractic care can significantly lower the need for opioid pain relievers by 64% compared to traditional medical care" (2). For our active clients, this is a testament to the power of natural, non-invasive treatments. It's not just about managing pain—it's about restoring function and mobility without the side effects often associated with medication.
Regular chiropractic adjustments have been shown to improve not just physical but also mental well-being. A study published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research reported a "significant improvement in brain function, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in critical thinking and performance" after chiropractic adjustments (3). For athletes and active individuals, the edge provided by a well-tuned nervous system is invaluable.
Moreover, our focus on wellness care means addressing the whole person, not just the symptoms. We see this holistic approach as a cornerstone of a natural, healthy lifestyle. One group that we often focus on is former or current athletes dealing with injuries. Research in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics highlighted that "individuals who maintained regular chiropractic care had fewer days of musculoskeletal pain, contributing to better quality of life" (4). This is particularly important for our clients who want to maintain an active lifestyle as they age.
At Move Chiropractic, we're more than a chiropractic office; we're a wellness partner. Our clients, from young adults to those in their golden years, have found a respite from pain, a boost in performance, and a path to sustained health through our care. We've celebrated victories such as returning to a beloved sport, lifting grandchildren without discomfort, and completing marathons—all milestones that a healthy spine has made possible.
As we reflect on the past year, let's be thankful for the health we foster together, the community we build, and the lives we enhance. Let our gratitude extend to the innate, intricate design of our bodies and the natural healing abilities they possess, which chiropractic care so effectively supports.
Whether you're a weekend warrior, a dedicated athlete, or someone seeking to enjoy life without the limitations of pain, there's much to be thankful for in the realm of spinal health. Our hearts are always open to help guide you on your journey to wellness, and we look forward to continuing to serve our vibrant, active community.
Citations
(1) American Chiropractic Association. (2021). What Research Shows About Chiropractic. Retrieved from [ACA website]
(2) Kazis, L. E., Ameli, O., Rothendler, J., Garrity, B., Cabral, H., McDonough, C., ... & Atlas, S. (2020). Observational retrospective study of the association of initial healthcare provider for new-onset low back pain with early and long-term opioid use. BMJ Open, 9(9), e028633.
(3) Daligadu, J., Haavik, H., Yielder, P. C., Baarbe, J., & Murphy, B. (2013). Alterations in cortical and cerebellar motor processing in subclinical neck pain patients following spinal manipulation. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 36(8), 527-537.
(4) Senna, M. K., & Machaly, S. A. (2011). Does maintained spinal manipulation therapy for chronic nonspecific low back pain result in better long-term outcome? Spine, 36(18), 1427-1437.
