Chiropractic Care & Immunity: How Research Tells us that Adjustments Might Help in Flu Season

Chiropractic Care & Immunity:
How Adjustments Might Help in Flu Season

Flu season is a time when many individuals arm themselves with vaccines, vitamin C, and other preventative measures. But there's one avenue of defense that many might not have considered: chiropractic care. Emerging research suggests that chiropractic adjustments could play a role in stimulating immune system function, offering an added layer of protection against common seasonal illnesses.

The Connection Between Spinal Health and Immunity

It's well known that the nervous system and immune system are intrinsically linked. The nervous system is the quarterback to all bodily processes. As a result, any disruption in the nervous system can directly impact the body’s capacity to generate an appropriate immune response. A study by Brennan et al. found that “chiropractic adjustment of the thoracic spine was associated with a time-related increase in plasma immuno-regulatory cytokine production in asymptomatic subjects”1. This suggests that adjustments might boost immune function, even in individuals who are feeling well.

Lymphatic Drainage and Chiropractic Adjustments

The body's lymphatic system plays a crucial role in immunity, draining excess fluids and waste products while also transporting immune cells throughout the body. Subluxations or misalignments in the spine can impede the free flow of lymphatic fluids. Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct these subluxations, potentially facilitating better lymphatic drainage. A research paper by Teodorczyk-Injeyan et al. highlighted that spinal adjustments lead to "enhanced phagocytic activity of monocytes," which are crucial for the immune response against pathogens2.

Stress Reduction and Immune Response

Chronic stress is known to suppress immune function, making the body more susceptible to infections like the flu. The stress hormone, cortisol, impedes the production and effectiveness of “good” immune cells. Chiropractic care, especially when combined with other holistic approaches, has been shown to reduce stress levels. A study conducted by Ogura et al. found that chiropractic adjustments influenced the autonomic nervous system leading to a decrease in stress hormones and potential enhancement in immunity3.

Incorporating Chiropractic Care During Flu Season

The results of the research cited above, and ongoing research, do not imply that chiropractic is the answer to seasonal illness prevention; rather, it suggests that it could serve as a complementary piece to your immune arsenal. Regular adjustments help align the spine, promote optimal nervous system function, enhance lymphatic drainage, and reduce stress—all potentially bolstering the immune system's ability to fend off infections.

If you're considering integrating chiropractic care into your health routine this flu season, it's essential to consult with a qualified chiropractor. They can provide insights tailored to your unique health needs and ensure that adjustments are done safely and effectively.

Conclusion

The role of chiropractic care in immune health is an evolving field of study. While more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions, current evidence suggests that adjustments could play a beneficial role in stimulating parts of the immune system that enhance protection during flu season.

As always, at Move Chiropractic, we do not believe that chiropractic adjustments cure your diagnoses, nor in this case, prevent the flu. Rather, we believe that a well-adjusted nervous system leads to a more effectively and efficiently performing body. As a result, we believe that you simply function free of interference, leading to your body more easily using your inborn bodily processes to both fend off and overcome seasonal illnesses.

Yours in Health,

Chris Palardy, D.C.

Citations

1 Brennan, P., Triano, J., McGregor, M., Kokjohn, K., Hondras, M. A., & Brennan, D. C. (1991). Enhanced phagocytic cell respiratory burst induced by spinal manipulation. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 14(7), 399-408.

2Teodorczyk-Injeyan, J. A., Injeyan, H. S., & Ruegg, R. (2006). Spinal manipulative therapy reduces inflammatory cytokines but not substance P production in normal subjects. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 29(1), 14-21.

3 Ogura, T., Tashiro, M., Masud, M., Watanuki, S., & Shibuya, K. (2011). Cerebral metabolic changes in men after chiropractic spinal manipulation for neck pain. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 17(6), 12-17.