Chiropractors focus on the spine because....

It protects your spinal cord and nerves that branch out to the rest of the body. Each vertebrae has nerves on both sides that communicate with other areas of  the body.  Chiropractic doctors and medical doctors are all aware of this.  If those nerves are have impaired signals, that has stressful effects on the areas and systems they go out to.  If those nerves are functioning well, so is the body, leading to health. 

Can chiropractic help with breathing?

In an Australian study of 15 patients with moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

- Five received soft tissue therapy
- Five received soft tissue plus spinal manipulation;
- The remaining five received soft tissue therapy, manipulation and exercise.  

Lung function was measured before and at the end of four weeks. Those in the group that received all three treatments had better lung capacity and walked longer distances. Those who received manipulations had less gasping for breath and no one in the study experienced any negative side effects. How does this happen?  If the ribs and tissues don't move properly, COPD will increase symptomatically.  Allowing the body to move freely and provide blood flow to the nerves improves the symptoms and allows the body to heal. 

Manipulation of the spine is great for mobility and adding some soft tissue therapy will enhance motion and decrease muscle spasticity and injury.   This results in breathing better and less work on the muscles of the chest.  After treatments, patients can breathe easier and relax. 

Did you know breathing is controlled by the brainstem?   

This brainstem is located right beneath the skull.  Neurons in the brain stem send signals to the diaphragm and muscles in between the ribs telling them to work.  Neck bones (cervical spine) is involved in keeping these nerve roots safe and functioning properly.  Bad posture, texting, sitting with head held down, sleeping in awkward positions can put stress on the muscles and nerves creating problems with the signals to the nerves that determine breathing rates, heart rate, muscle contraction and all other areas of the body.  That is why it is key to have treatment to make sure these areas are free from stress and are working properly. 

How can chiropractic help you stay healthy?

Chiropractic treatments enhance the body's ability to work at its highest capability.  Our treatments get stored stress out of the body and allow the body to self heal.  Most chiropractors also know about exercise and general lifestyle necessities that enhance health and vitality naturally. 

If you are someone that is experiencing a problem or just want to stay healthy, our San Francisco Chiropractic Wellness and Sports office is here to help you with all of your needs.  Dr. Amie Gregory is a holistic chiropractic practitioner that takes health seriously.  Make an appointment today on our 24 hour scheduler! 

References: https://copd.newlifeoutlook.com/chiropractic-care-for-copd/