With all the things we have to attend to on a daily basis, such as our job, money, health, relationship, and listen to the news, it’s no wonder that we may struggle with stress. In today’s society, we are moving at a faster pace than ever before, and our bodies may not be able to catch up as quickly. Chiropractors are known for treating conditions related to the neck and back, but they can also help alleviate chronic stress. Around three out of every four people regularly have to deal with stress and may endure physical symptoms such as tension, aches, stiffness, and inflammation.
How does stress impact the body?
Whether the triggers of stress are environmental or emotional, it can cause damage to the body. Stress in itself can actually contribute to long-term issues such as spinal misalignment and impaired nervous system functioning. Stress can have such a negative impact on the body that some experts say that it accounts for around 50% of all healthcare-related costs. Regular trips to a chiropractor can help release built-up tension within the body while relieving symptoms associated with stress.
Can a chiropractor help reduce impacts from a “fight or flight” response?
Stress can initiate the “fight or flight” response, in which the brain activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to an increase in blood pressure, elevated heart rate, the release of adrenaline, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. Having to endure this response on a regular basis can wreak havoc on a person’s body.
One of the ways that a chiropractor can help reduce the impacts of this response is by adjusting the spinal column. Persistent tension can result in muscle contracting and the spine getting locked in a position that is abnormal, disrupting the function of the nervous system. Frequent surges of stress hormones can hinder the body’s ability to fight off illnesses, as it weakens the immune system, and slows down healing.
What are the benefits of receiving regular chiropractic care?
By having a chiropractor regularly treat your spine and other problem areas, patients will be better able to cope with stress. Ensuring that the spine is in proper alignment is the first step to reducing stress. When the spine gets misaligned, the nervous system cannot properly send messages throughout the body. Your chiropractor may recommend getting exercise regularly and making other life changes to decrease stress. Patients may experience other positive changes due to chiropractic care, such as better sleep, self-esteem, enhanced mood, and a stronger connection to oneself.
Can you tell me more about the spinal adjustments?
A chiropractor, like a Chiropractor in Woodbridge, NJ, will use either their hand or a small device to adjust misalignments of the spine and other joints. These adjustments help release tension in the muscles, soothe spinal nerves, and increase blood circulation. These changes can alert the brain to turn off the fight or flight response, helping the body return to a calm state. Deep tissue massage, meditation, posture changes, and nutrition may be incorporated into a patient’s treatment plan in addition to spinal adjustments.
Thank you to the experts at the Northeast Spine & Wellness Center for their input into chiropractic care.
