Chiropractors are healthcare professionals extensively trained in treating disorders of the musculoskeletal system through natural, noninvasive techniques. Common conditions treated by chiropractors are neuro-musculoskeletal complaints such as back pain, neck pain, headache, joint problems, and more.
The word chiropractic is derived from the Greek words "cheir" [hand] and "praxis" [action], and roughly translates to "performed by the hand." Chiropractors primarily use hands-on manual therapies such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies (massage), and spinal mobilization. Additionally, Dr Sam Liveriadis complements these treatments with postural analysis and exercise rehabilitation. These treatments are designed to facilitate the body's innate capacity to heal itself.
The most basic technique used by chiropractors is spinal manipulation, sometimes referred to as chiropractic adjustments or spinal adjustments. During an adjustment,
Dr Sam Liveriadis uses his hands or an instrument to deliver precise, controlled force directly to an area of the spine with dysfunction (also called a subluxation).
Multiple medical studies have shown that chiropractic adjustments can relieve symptoms in people with back pain, neck pain, whiplash, disc herniation (bulging discs), sciatica, and more.
For most people who visit our Oakleigh clinic, their first priority is pain relief. While chiropractor Dr. Sam can alleviate many chronic pain conditions, he can also assist in improving your overall health through maintaining the proper functioning of the central nervous system (CNS).
The CNS is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Branching out from the spinal cord are spinal nerves which reach into every part of the body. This allows your brain to send nerve impulses and communicate with the rest of the body. The central nervous system is involved in everything our body does, including breathing, immunity, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, sensation, pain sensitivity, and more.
The spinal cord is protected by the spine, which is made up of bones and discs, and is surrounded by ligaments and muscles. Any damage to these ligaments, muscles, discs, and bones may result in what chiropractors call a "subluxation." Subluxations don't just affect your spinal health however, they impede the proper functioning of the CNS, which in turn affects your overall health.
Chiropractic adjustments can correct dysfunctions in the spine, allowing injured discs, ligaments, and muscles to heal while improving the functionality of the CNS. Studies have suggested that chiropractic adjustments can reduce stress hormones, blood pressure, and heart rate. Some studies have found that chiropractic adjustments also decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase certain antibodies, which may improve the body's immune responses.
If you're searching for a way to boost your health and get out of pain, your Oakleigh chiropractor can help. Call Dr Sam of North Road Chiropractic for effective pain relief today in Oakleigh, East Bentleigh, Clayton, and Mt. Waverley, Melbourne.
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References
ACA- What is chiropractic? American Chiropractic Association. http://www.acatoday.org/level2_css.cfm?T1ID=13&T2ID=61. Accessed October 10, 2013.
Bakris G, Dickholtz M, Meyer PM, Kravitz G, et al. Atlas vertebra realignment and achievement of arterial pressure goal in hypertensive patients: a pilot study. Journal of Human Hypertension 2007;21:347-352.
Ogura, Takeshi et al. Cerebral metabolic changes in men after chiropractic spinal manipulation for neck pain. Alternative Therapies. 2011; 17 (6): 12-17.
Neil J. Manipulative therapy and immune response: A literature review of the chiropractic and osteopathic evidence. Clinical
Chiropractic 2012; 15(3): 186.
Kuusisto L. What is Chiropractic? Chiropractic-Taking Charge of Your Health and Wellbeing. University of Miinnesota. http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/chiropractic. Accesses October 10, 2013.
Teodorczyk-Injeyan JA, McGregor M, Ruegg R, Injeyan HS. Interleukin 2-regulated in vitro antibody production following a single spinal manipulative treatment in normal subjects. Chiropractic & Osteopathy 2010; 18:26.
