Every year, millions of people seek relief from chronic pain, mobility issues, and other health problems through chiropractic care. But what exactly does a chiropractor do, and how can spinal therapy help you?
Read on to learn the different types of spine therapy offered by a chiropractor.
Decompression Therapy
Decompression therapy is a non-surgical, drug-free treatment option for patients with back or neck pain. This type of spine therapy involves gently stretching the spine to relieve pressure on compressed discs and nerves.
Decompression therapy creates space between the vertebrae. It can reduce pain, improve mobility, and aid healing.
During this treatment, you will lie on a specialized table that uses traction to stretch and relax the spine. The chiropractor may also use more techniques. For example, electrical stimulation or ultrasound. These enhance the effects of decompression therapy.
Spinal Manipulation
Chiropractors use spinal manipulation, also known as chiropractic adjustment. It is a common technique. It involves using hands or tools to apply force to the spine.
This is done to improve its alignment and mobility. This can help alleviate pain, improve nerve function, and promote overall wellness.
Chiropractors use their deep knowledge of the body’s muscles and bones. They use it to find areas where the spine is misaligned or not working right.
By gently manipulating these areas, they can restore proper alignment. This reduces tension and pressure on surrounding nerves and tissues. This spine therapy is often used to treat conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint pain.
Therapeutic Massage
In addition to spine treatments, chiropractors may also offer therapeutic massage. This type of massage aims to relax muscles, release tension, and improve circulation throughout the body. It can also help reduce inflammation and promote healing in injured or overworked tissues.
Therapeutic massage may be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other spine therapy techniques. Postural correction can complement the effects of chiropractic adjustments. This makes it a valuable addition to any treatment plan.
Physical Therapy
Chiropractors may also add physical therapy to their treatment plans. It is a valuable service. This therapy focuses on improving physical function. It does this through targeted exercises and rehab techniques.
Physical therapists work closely with patients. They develop personalized programs to address specific weaknesses, imbalances, or injuries.
Physical therapy can improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. These are key for a healthy spine and preventing future injuries.
A “ring dinger chiropractor near me” can help alleviate pain and restore function. They can also provide guidance on exercises and stretches that can be done at home to support the healing process.
Cold Laser Therapy
Cold laser therapy is also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT). It is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to promote healing and reduce pain. This therapy uses low-intensity lasers.
They apply them to the affected area. The lasers can penetrate the skin and stimulate cells. The light energy helps heal tissue.
It reduces inflammation and improves blood flow. This makes it effective for many conditions. These include joint pain, muscle strains, and soft tissue injuries.
During a cold laser therapy session, the chiropractor will use a handheld device to direct the laser light to the targeted area. The treatment is painless and typically takes only a few minutes.
Patients may feel better right away. Cold laser therapy can be used alone or with other chiropractic treatments. It enhances healing.
Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy is a treatment. It uses high-frequency sound waves to treat musculoskeletal issues. This type of therapy can help reduce pain, increase blood flow, and promote the healing of injured tissues.
The sound waves create gentle vibrations. They go deep into the affected area, providing helpful benefits.
During an ultrasound therapy session, the chiropractor will apply a special gel to the skin over the targeted area. A handheld ultrasound device is then moved in circular motions over the gel, emitting sound waves that penetrate the tissues.
The treatment is usually painless. It is used to treat many conditions, such as tendinitis, ligament injuries, and muscle spasms. Ultrasound therapy is often used with other chiropractic treatments. It helps recovery and improves outcomes.
Heat and Ice Therapy
Chiropractors use heat and ice therapy. It’s a simple but effective approach. They use it to manage pain and cut inflammation. This therapy involves heat packs or cold compresses.
They are applied to the affected area, based on the patient’s needs. Heat therapy helps to relax tight muscles and improve blood flow. It also promotes tissue healing.
It is especially good for conditions like muscle stiffness and chronic pain. Ice therapy is effective in reducing inflammation. It also numbs sharp pain and controls swelling. This is especially useful right after an injury or for acute pain.
During a heat and ice therapy session, the chiropractor will assess the patient’s condition. They will determine which therapy is best.
Heat packs or cold compresses are applied to the area. This happens for short durations, often in cycles. It is done to achieve the desired therapeutic effects.
This therapy can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other chiropractic techniques to enhance pain relief and support the healing process.
Electrical Stimulation
E-stim is a therapy that uses electrical currents. It stimulates muscles and nerves. This type of therapy can help reduce pain, improve muscle function, and accelerate the healing process.
E-stim works by sending mild electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin near the affected area. These impulses mimic the natural signals sent by the nervous system, promoting muscle contractions and increasing blood flow to the targeted region.
During an e-stim session, the chiropractor will place adhesive electrodes on the skin. They will connect them to a specialized machine that makes the electrical currents.
The intensity and duration of the stimulation can be adjusted to suit the patient’s needs and comfort level. Electrical stimulation is often used to treat conditions such as muscle spasms, joint pain, and nerve-related issues.
It can be used alone. It can also be used with other chiropractic techniques. This enhances pain relief and supports muscle recovery.
Trying the Right Spine Therapy
Different spine therapy techniques can provide various benefits, and the right combination of treatments will depend on the individual needs of each patient. Chiropractors take a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing not just symptoms but also underlying causes of pain and dysfunction.
By incorporating a range of spine therapy options into their practice, chiropractors can effectively help patients achieve better spinal health and overall well-being.
