Welcome to our exploration of chiropractic care, where we aim to debunk misconceptions surrounding its legitimacy by sharing evidence-backed studies. As chiropractors, we've faced numerous doubts and criticisms about the scientific basis of our practice. However, we firmly believe that by examining specific examples of common health issues and the corresponding research, we can shed light on the effectiveness of chiropractic care.
Join us on this journey as we delve into the evidence behind chiropractic care for various health challenges, debunking the notion of chiropractic as a pseudoscience and showcasing the tangible benefits it can offer. Through a combination of empirical data and clinical experience, we'll demonstrate how chiropractic care stands as a credible and valuable form of healthcare.
Chiropractic: how does it work?
When the spine falls out of alignment, it can create issues within our muscles and nerves, disrupting their functionality. This disruption can affect how our body moves and how our brain and nervous system operate. This can also result in the loss of the spine's normal curves. (1)
Studies indicate that adjusting and realigning the spine can improve the functionality of our nerves and muscles. When our nervous system operates efficiently, we can adequately react and adapt to our surroundings. This vital connection between our senses and physical actions facilitates all bodily functions, from basic reflexes to intricate movements and activities. (1) Through chiropractic adjustments we can observe and experience improvement in many signs and symptoms due to an increase in nervous system funtioning.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Chiropractic Care
Relief from Neck Pain
Chiropractic treatment has been proven effective in alleviating neck pain. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2015 concluded that spinal manipulative therapy (AKA chiropractic adjustments) effectively addressed acute neck pain and provided similar benefits to other conventional treatments. (2)
Reduced Fall Risk and Improved Reflex Times
Is it ever too late to begin chiropractic care? Never! A study conducted by Heidi Haavick assessed whether 12 weeks of chiropractic care enhanced sensorimotor function (how the body communicates with the brain) linked with fall risk in older adults residing in New Zealand. The results were remarkable: individuals receiving chiropractic care exhibited improved stepping reaction time, joint position sense, and enhancements in their overall quality of life.(3)
Alleviation of Back Pain
Numerous investigations have demonstrated the efficacy of chiropractic care in treating both acute and chronic back pain. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in 2017 proposed that chiropractic adjustments were a feasible solution for individuals experiencing low back pain. (4)
Management of Headaches and Migraines
Chiropractic adjustments can offer relief to those suffering from tension headaches and migraines. Studies have revealed that chiropractic treatment can decrease the frequency and severity of incapacitating headaches. (5)
Need more evidence ?
The UK Evidence Report concluded that spinal manipulation is effective in adults for treating acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain; migraine and headache; dizziness; various extremity joint conditions; and acute/subacute neck pain. (6)
Here at Elevate, we see it every day: people feeling, functioning better and living better thanks to chiropractic care. Despite what you might hear, chiropractic works, plain and simple. Our patients' success stories speak volumes about the real positive impact chiropractic care can have. So, if you're ever in doubt, just remember: results speak louder than words.
In conclusion, is chiropractic pseudoscience ?
The evidence supporting the efficacy of chiropractic adjustments is substantial and continuously expanding. Chiropractic care presents a drug-free and non-invasive method for managing pain and enhancing overall wellbeing.
If you're grappling with pain, discomfort, or simply aiming to elevate your wellbeing, consider exploring chiropractic care. We provide a complimentary discovery call to help you determine if chiropractic treatment is suitable for you!
If you live in Barcelona, schedule your free appointment now by clicking the button below.
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References :
(1) A. Oakley P, M. Moustafa I, E. Harrison D. The Influence of Sagittal Plane Spine Alignment on Neurophysiology and Sensorimotor Control Measures: Optimization of Function through Structural Correction [Internet]. Therapy Approaches in Neurological Disorders. IntechOpen; 2021. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.95890
(2) Paige, N. M., Miake-Lye, I. M., Booth, M. S., Beroes, J. M., Mardian, A. S., Dougherty, P., ... & Shekelle, P. G. (2015). Association of spinal manipulative therapy with clinical benefit and harm for acute low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis. Annals of Internal Medicine, 162(11), 877-888. (3) Holt KR, Haavik H, Lee AC, Murphy B, Elley CR. Effectiveness of Chiropractic Care to Improve Sensorimotor Function Associated With Falls Risk in Older People: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2016;39(4):267-278. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2016.02.003
(4) Qaseem, A., Wilt, T. J., McLean, R. M., & Forciea, M. A. (2017). Noninvasive treatments for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain: a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Journal of the American Medical Association, 317(16), 1624-1633. (5)Bryans R, Descarreaux M, Duranleau M, et al. Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2011;34(5):274-289. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2011.04.008
(6) Bronfort, G., Haas, M., Evans, R. et al. Effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report . Chiropr Man Therap 18, 3 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1186/1746-1340-18-3
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