How Chiropractic Care Can Boost Your Immune System
At our practice, we are dedicated to providing a holistic approach to your healthcare. We believe in understanding the interconnectedness of body systems to tailor our care for not only addressing specific ailments but also enhancing your overall well-being.
The Connection Between the Spinal Cord and Immune Response
Did you know that your nervous system plays a crucial role in modulating your immune response? Chiropractic adjustments aim to relieve stress on the nervous system, particularly the spinal cord, which can lead to more robust immune function. A landmark study by Brennan et al. (1991) found that various immune markers, specifically white blood cell counts, increased following chiropractic adjustments, indicating an immediate immunological response.
Stress Reduction and Immunity
Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, making us more susceptible to infections. Chiropractic care has been shown to reduce stress by decreasing muscular tension and improving circulation, which can enhance overall immune response. A 2004 study by Teodorczyk-Injeyan et al. demonstrated that chiropractic care could reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines typically elevated due to stress.
Enhancing Autonomic Function
The autonomic nervous system, which controls many organs and muscles, is also influenced by the state of the spine. Misalignments, known as subluxations, can impair this system's function, potentially affecting the immune response. By correcting these subluxations, chiropractic care supports the autonomic nervous system, enhancing the body's ability to heal and protect itself. A study by Selano et al. (1994) showed that long-term health outcomes, including immune function, were significantly better in a group that received chiropractic care.
Practical Tips for Chiropractic and Immune Health
Regular Adjustments: Maintain optimal spinal alignment and nervous system function with regular chiropractic sessions.
Healthy Lifestyle: Combine chiropractic care with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep to strengthen your immune system.
Stress Management: Engage in stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises to complement your chiropractic care.
We also have a fascinating video by Heidi explaining how pain and the immune system work.
Click here to watch.
The human body's ability to heal and defend itself from illness is truly remarkable. By enhancing nervous system function through chiropractic adjustments, reducing stress, and supporting overall health, chiropractic care can be a valuable component of your health regimen, aiming to boost your immune system naturally.
We encourage everyone to consider how chiropractic care could fit into their health and wellness strategies, especially during times when immune function is more critical than ever. Stay healthy, and remember, your chiropractor is here to support your body's innate abilities to heal and thrive.
Feel free to discuss this further during your next visit, or contact our office to learn more about how chiropractic care can help you maintain optimal health.
Dr Mark has a special interest in helping recreational athletes of all ages perform better and prevent injury. Correct breathing and postural alignment are critical for top performance and injury prevention and is an integral part of “The Over 40 Athlete System” that Mark has developed.
Dr Julie has a special interest in helping mothers and “mothers to be”. Her Post Graduate qualifications in Paediatric Chiropractic and as an ex-midwife give her a unique ability to help pregnant women, new mums and their young children.
Yours in Health,
Dr's Mark & Julie
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