Chiropractic Benefits

A Guide on How a Chiropractor Can Help You

Hi, I’m Dr. Matthew Alch (Chiropractor) and I am your local family Chiropractor.

At Sydney Spinal Care we work with you to reach your goals, whatever your age! I’ve prepared this guide to chiropractic to highlight how chiropractic care may benefit you.

Read on as I discuss what chiropractic is, how an adjustment aims to help you, the conditions we are most known for helping, and the history of chiropractic.

What is chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care is a ‘hands-on’ form of healthcare that focuses on the body’s natural ability to heal itself. The word ‘chiropractic’ comes from the Greek words cheir (meaning ‘hand’) and praktikos (meaning ‘done’) – namely, done by hand.

We chiropractors are primary contact practitioners (which means we can see patients without you needing a referral from a GP).

Chiropractic care involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal conditions, primarily those affecting the spine. Chiropractic care aims to improve mobility, alleviate pain, and restore proper function.

Commonly helped musculoskeletal conditions

Chiropractic care is effective in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Headaches and migraines
• Bulging discs
• Shoulder pain
• Knee pain
• Sciatica
• Scoliosis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Arthritis (and managing symptoms of arthritis)
• A range of posture issues.

Chiropractors also provide treatment for sports injuries, pregnancy-related discomforts/back pain, and other conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system.

How a chiropractic adjustment works

Chiropractic adjustments involve the application of a controlled force to a joint in the body to restore its proper alignment and function. The goal of an adjustment is to relieve pressure on the affected area, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.

During an adjustment, we chiropractors use our hands or a small instrument to apply a quick, gentle force to the affected joint. You may hear a popping sound, which is the release of gas bubbles from the joint.

The adjustment is usually painless, and many patients report feeling a sense of relief or improved mobility immediately after the adjustment.

In addition to adjustments, we may use other techniques such as massage, stretching, and exercises to help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Risk factors associated with chiropractic care

Like any medical treatment, chiropractic care has some risks. The most common risks associated with chiropractic adjustments include soreness or stiffness in the treated area, headaches, and fatigue.

There are reports that include extremely rare complications such as a herniated disc, stroke, or nerve damage. However, these risks are very rare and need to be understood in terms of treatment provided and existing risk factors.

It is important to discuss any potential risks with your chiropractor and ensure that you are receiving safe and effective treatment.

It is always good to ask questions and get all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Benefits of chiropractic care

There are numerous benefits of chiropractic care, including:

• Pain relief: Chiropractic care is effective in relieving pain associated with musculoskeletal conditions, including low back pain, neck pain, and headaches.
• Improved mobility: Chiropractic adjustments can improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness, which can improve overall function.
• Reduced inflammation: Misalignments in the spine can cause inflammation, which can contribute to pain and other health problems. Chiropractic care can reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
• Non-invasive: Chiropractic care is a non-invasive approach to healthcare that does not require drugs or surgery..

What is the history of chiropractic?

Chiropractic care has its roots in the late 19th century when Daniel David Palmer, a magnetic healer, developed the theory that misalignments in the spine could interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself.

He developed a hands-on technique to manipulate the spine, which he called chiropractic.

Over time, chiropractic care has evolved into a recognised healthcare profession with rigorous training and certification requirements.

In fact, the field of chiropractic science in Australia is one of fourteen health professions regulated by the government via the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.

What about scientific studies?

In terms of scientific literature, the body of evidence to support chiropractic care is growing each year.

A 2018 review published in The Spine Journal references numerous studies spanning 17 years which involved chiropractic care. Findings conclude that chiropractic methods were viable options for pain management for those suffering from chronic lower back pain.

Another study published by NCBI, shows us that 93% of patients suffering from chronic whiplash syndrome improved following chiropractic treatment. Yet another study published by National Centre for Biotechnology (NCBI) sites preliminary evidence suggesting chiropractic therapy is beneficial for patients with back-related leg pain.

We have your back

To sum up, chiropractic care is generally regarded as a safe and effective option to treat a range of musculoskeletal conditions.

By restoring proper alignment and function to the body, chiropractic adjustments aim to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore more optimal function and vitality.

If you are experiencing pain or other musculoskeletal problems, consider consulting your local chiropractor to explore the benefits of chiropractic care.

Get in Touch

Contact Dr. Matthew Alch (Chiropractor) from Sydney Spinal Care today.

Read More

• Interested in knowing more? Find out what happens on your first chiropractic visit here.
• Find out more about prenatal chiropractic care here.
• Find out more about postnatal chiropractic care here.
• Need orthotics? They often help to address back pain.