Ease Your Digestion with Chiropractic Care
Digestive problems are widespread in the U.S. and affect 60 to 70 million people, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases' Digestive Disease Statistics for the United States report.
The report notes that twenty million people experience reflux, a common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), at least once a week. GERD affects both children and adults and can cause heartburn, chest pain, sore throat, nausea, belching, and difficulty swallowing. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acids travel out of the stomach and into the esophagus, leading to discomfort and irritation.
Dealing with gastrointestinal issues, including indigestion, bloating, gas, general abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s Disease, constipation, diarrhea, and persistent stomach pains, is no easy feat. These digestive problems can deplete you of nutrients and drain your energy. As a result, they can leave you distracted all day long, keep you homebound, and hinder you from accomplishing your regular routine.
The Connection Between Chiropractic Care and Digestive Health
Spinal misalignments can interfere with the nerves controlling digestion, potentially alleviating issues like constipation, bloating, and acid reflux through improved nerve function and better communication between the brain and the digestive system. Gonstead chiropractors aim to optimize the body's nervous system by realigning the spine, directly impacting digestive health.
A chiropractor doesn't treat the digestive tract directly. Instead, when making chiropractic adjustments, a chiropractor focuses on the spine and central nervous system. Proper spine alignment is key to a healthy central nervous system and, in turn, a properly functioning gastrointestinal tract.
In a review of the scientific literature, the Canadian Chiropractic Association found that most articles chronicling patient experiences under chiropractic care reported mild to moderate improvements in presenting GI symptoms, and no adverse side effects were reported. This suggests chiropractic care can be considered as a natural, non-invasive treatment for patients with various digestive problems.
How Your Spine Affects Digestion
The lumbar and thoracic spine help regulate how fast your digestive system processes and breaks down food. Health issues negatively affecting these spinal areas can also negatively impact your digestive health. Many people may experience lower back pain in addition to digestive complications. Research finds a strong association between gastrointestinal symptoms and back pain, especially in women.
Why Choose Chiropractic Care for Digestive Problems?
One of the most appealing aspects of chiropractic care for digestive issues is its holistic, non-invasive approach. Rather than masking symptoms with medications, chiropractic care aims to address potential underlying causes of digestive problems through proper spinal alignment. This holistic health approach considers how your body's systems work together rather than treating digestive issues in isolation.
What to Expect During Your First Chiropractic Visit
During your first visit, your Gonstead chiropractor will conduct a thorough examination using a five-step process to understand your digestive concerns and overall spinal health. This comprehensive assessment helps determine if spinal misalignments might contribute to your digestive issues. Your Gonstead chiropractor will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include specific chiropractic adjustments targeting areas affecting your digestive function.
While some patients report improvements in their digestive symptoms after just a few adjustments, lasting changes often require consistent care. Your Gonstead chiropractor will work with you to develop an adjustment schedule that addresses your specific needs and goals.
If you're struggling with digestive issues and looking for a natural, non-invasive solution, Dr. Bobby at Vertical Chiropractic in Downtown Sarasota can help. Schedule a consultation today to learn how chiropractic care can support your digestive health and overall well-being. Call now or visit our website to book your appointment.
References
1. Angus K, Asgharifar S, Gleberzon B. What effect does chiropractic treatment have on gastrointestinal (GI) disorders: a narrative review of the literature. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2015 Jun;59(2):122-33. PMID: 26136604; PMCID: PMC4486990.
2. Smith MD, Russell A, Hodges PW. How common is back pain in women with gastrointestinal problems? Clin J Pain. 2008 Mar-Apr;24(3):199-203. doi: 10.1097/AJP.0b013e31815d3601. PMID: 18287824.
