Chiropractic Wellness at Every Life Stage

Did you know that chiropractic care can have significant health and wellness benefits at every stage of life? Here at Life University (Life U), we educate and support our future chiropractic professionals and the community about a holistic chiropractic philosophy that utilizes Chiropractic as a means to promote lifelong health rather than simply relying on symptom-based methodologies. In practice, that means that our DCs investigate far beyond superficial pain symptoms to identify, care for and eventually prevent the root causes of health interferences to emerge. This leads to immense potential for a better quality of life for the entire family, from the smallest baby to the respected elders. In the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress’ (F4CP)  article “Benefits Beyond Back Pain At Every Stage Of Life,” we can see with more clarity what that looks like.

Even before birth, Chiropractic can be of immense benefit. Several studies in the Journal of Manipulative Physiological Therapeutics (JMPT) and the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology report nearly 50% of all pregnant women experience back pain during their pregnancy, shooting up to 75% of women having back pain during labor. DCs, particularly those specializing in pre and perinatal care, are well versed in the science related to hormone fluctuations that can impact the synovial joints inside the bodies of pregnant women. Synovial joints are surrounded by fluid-filled joint capsules found at the end of bones and commonly require adjustment, especially the spinal synovial joints called facets found in the spine.

Chiropractic can help an expecting mother optimize joint function and stability to accommodate the biomechanics of gestation to provide relief of back, neck and joint pain for a more comfortable pregnancy. Other possible benefits include improved posture, sleep, as well as decreased nausea. There is evidence that chiropractic care during pregnancy is linked with promotion of a healthy  pregnancy and uncomplicated labor, such as reduced labor and delivery time.

(Adapted from PXDocs article, “Birth Trauma — Oliver’s Story”.)

The birth process can cause undue stress to newborns and, in some cases, birth trauma. Referring to an infant, birth trauma is any injury or trauma, often physical, that occurs during labor and delivery. This birth trauma can result in lifelong health challenges, disability and neurological issues for the child, especially without proper intervention. It’s an often-overlooked factor in the steady rise of chronic illness in kids. Birth trauma is associated with challenges and conditions such as:

Birth trauma can occur naturally or sometimes in the course of medical intervention. Epidurals, inductions, forceps, vacuum extraction, fetal cord monitoring and c-sections can play a role in possible birth trauma. Baby positioning, a large baby and a strangely shaped or small pelvis are other common risk factors. To sum up, a long delivery with extra medical intervention required is more likely to result in birth trauma. The severity and presentation can vary, which is why many traditional medical teams do not detect birth trauma

Much of birth trauma is connected to interference with the vitally important vagus nerve, beginning in the brain stem and extending all the way down the cervical spine into the thorax and abdomen. This interference with the Vagus Nerve, brainstem and other areas of the nervous system is what chiropractors call a subluxation. Every child and every case is different, but the bottom line is that pediatric Chiropractic should be considered a first choice for intervention related to emerging birth trauma issues as opposed to the last resort when all else fails. If you think a loved one might need intervention related to a birth trauma, consider seeking care from a licensed pediatric chiropractor. Even in cases where birth trauma is not suspected, infant Chiropractic can still be beneficial in a variety of ways, such as improved sleep patterns, digestive health and helping guide the baby through healthy milestones.

Growth spurts for kids means potential for issues that can arise with the neuromusculoskeletal system. The rapid development of the spine and brain all require intentional care and support. Not only can a family or pediatric chiropractor help with pain relief and injury healing, but DCs can also work with you and your child through every major step to create a firm foundation of health. Your DC can monitor growth spurts and note any imbalances, as well as adjust them as necessary. Scoliosis detection is one such goal in this endeavor, as well as promoting spinal health with education in regard to safe backpack use, posture and the dangers of ‘Tech Neck’ (a new emerging issue related to extended use of computer or phones).

You never quite know what life is going to throw at you, but a great DC can help optimize health and wellness through it all. In middle age, joints will begin to experience stress from life factors as well as hormonal changes. Arthritis commonly can begin to set in around age 50 and up. Your DC can help with many health challenges as you age, such as:

Maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle is key to keeping the golden years golden. Chiropractic care can help preserve your independence as you age with low-impact techniques designed to gently maximize joint function and overall comfort. It can also help reduce the need for painful and costly surgeries with long recovery times and possible harsh side effects. Regular chiropractic care for seniors has so many benefits, from more restful sleep to better endurance and strength, as well as visible vitality and an energized spirit.

Make Chiropractic part of your regular health routine. Finding the right chiropractor for you might seem daunting, but ultimately, it could be the best decision you ever make for your health. And of course, Life University (Life U) is a well-respected chiropractic institution that educates chiropractors to care for a wide range of patients and conditions.

To learn more about chiropractic care through Life Chiropractic Centers, visit lifechiropractic.com.

To search for Life University alumni chiropractors in your area, utilize the Life U Referral Directory.