How Does Chiropractic Care Help to Relieve Pain?

Do you experience frequent headaches? Joint issues? Back pain, like four out of five Canadian adults do at one time or another?

If so, chiropractic care could help you find relief.

You may wonder “what are chiropractors?” if you’ve never visited one or seen them work. But more people are aware of the benefits of chiropractic treatment now, thanks in large part to the explosion in viral chiropractic videos. You’ll find plenty on YouTube with hundreds of thousands (even millions) of views.

However, those videos don’t always make clear what chiropractic benefits a patient can expect to experience after treatment. And, as a result, you might feel nervous about visiting a chiropractic practitioner for the first time.

We want to help you understand why chiropractic care is important and how it can help you find relief from pain. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to the benefits of chiropractic treatment, how spinal manipulation therapy works, and how you can find a good practitioner near you.

What Are The Benefits Of Chiropractic Treatment?

Chiropractors train for years to develop their skills and understand the intricate mechanics of the human body. Their aim is to identify issues caused by misalignment of a patient’s musculoskeletal structure (primarily the spine), restore proper (or better) alignment, and relieve pain.

How does chiropractic treatment work?

Practitioners typically use multiple techniques to help patients. Treatment incorporates:

• Manipulation or mobilization of the spine and joints
• Physical therapy modalities
• Spinal decompression
• Ergonomic corrections
• Myofascial release
• Shockwave
• Kinescoping
• Therapeutic exercises

Chiropractic care can treat a wide range of issues including:

• Migraines
• Headaches
• Jaw pain/TMJ
• Disc herniation
• Frozen shoulder
• Sciatica
• Painful knees, ankles, hips, or joints
• Arthritis
• Strains/sprains
• Tennis and golfer’s elbow
• Whiplash
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Sports injuries
• Flat feet
• Vertigo

Other conditions may be treatable with chiropractic care, too.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Chiropractors start treatment with an in-depth physical examination. They’ll look out for any signs of issues that could contribute to pain and impaired mobility. Locating problem areas can provide them with the insights they need to understand the reason for the patient’s pain, and create a treatment plan. Diagnostic imaging and tests may be required, too.

A chiropractor will discuss a patient’s medical background and the history of their musculoskeletal problems. This can provide them with invaluable information on the cause of an injury or condition, and how it affects the individual’s life.

For example, research by the Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) found that more than 11 million Canadians have “an injury or disorder” that has an impact on their mobility. Back pain is one of the most common issues, forcing nearly one-third of adults to limit their activities.

People living with back pain, or any other musculoskeletal problem that reduces their quality of life, may benefit from chiropractic care. It can lead to a significant reduction in pain and improve a patient’s mobility without the need for surgery or medication. 

What are the side effects of chiropractor care?

Patients may experience side effects after visiting a chiropractor, as with any other form of treatment.

Adjustments tend to be pain-free, though you might feel sore in the affected areas until your muscles acclimate. This is typically no worse than the way your body might feel after a trip to the gym or a run. You may also develop a headache or feel fatigued, though both side effects should fade within a short period of time.

Your practitioner will discuss potential side effects in detail before your treatment. They’ll also answer your questions and set your mind at ease if you feel nervous.

The best chiropractors understand how difficult trying a new treatment can be for some patients. They’ll make every effort to help you relax and feel comfortable throughout your visit.

What is Spinal Manipulation Therapy?

Spinal manipulation therapy is one of the core elements of chiropractic treatment. It’s often used to relieve pain in the lower back or neck. Careful examination is essential before performing spinal manipulation therapy. Practitioners must know which areas of the spine to work on and which to leave untouched.

How does spinal manipulation therapy work? A practitioner places their hands or a special device to a specific spot on the spine, then applies carefully controlled force to adjust alignment. The level of force applied differs, based on what the chiropractor considers appropriate.

Why does spinal manipulation help my back pain?

Spinal manipulation reduces the amount of pressure on specific joints, enhances nerve function, and eases inflammation to relieve back pain.

Multiple sessions may be required to achieve the best improvements possible, but your chiropractor will provide you with a tailored treatment plan, so you know what to expect.

How Do I Find A Good Chiropractor Near Me?

Feel inspired to visit a chiropractor and find out what they can do for you? Wondering “how do I find a good chiro near me?” before you start calling every clinic in your area?

Research is crucial to help you find a clinic providing quality patient care and effective treatment. Reputable chiropractic clinics will maintain a strong online presence and will be accessible via their website or social media channels. You should be able to contact their team and discuss your requirements easily.

One way to find out who is the best chiro in town is to check patient reviews. People will be honest about their experiences and how their treatment has benefitted them.

Don’t be afraid to contact a clinic and ask questions to get all the information you need to feel confident in your choice.

Start Your Journey to a Better Body

Visiting a chiropractor for spinal manipulation therapy or another form of chiro treatment could transform the way your body functions and feels. You may find lasting relief from pain and enjoy better range of motion.

Bloor Yonge Chiropractic offers dedicated chiro care in Toronto, Ontario, as well as acupuncture, massage therapy, physiotherapy, and more.

Contact Bloor Yonge Chiropractic to book your first appointment!