Chiropractic care and the immune system—is there a connection?
Most people would associate chiropractic care with back and neck pain relief. However, evidence of the positive impacts of chiropractic adjustment on immune health is growing.
This blog will cover how the immune system works and the connection between chiropractic care, stress reduction, and immune function. Read on as we shed light on the benefits of chiropractic care for the immune system.
The immune system comprises a network of cells, tissues, and organs. Its components interact and work to protect our bodies from bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens.
White blood cells detect pathogens and other antigen-carrying substances. Once detected, the immune system reacts with physical, chemical, and biological defenses to quickly combat the infection. That includes antibodies and enzymes that prevent pathogens from invading the body.
Our body's adaptive immunity will create a memory of the encounter. That immunological memory will allow for a faster and stronger immune response in future infections of the same pathogen.
While the exact science is still being studied, research suggests a link between chiropractic adjustments and immune system function.
Misalignments in the spine can impact nerve pathways and compromise immune system communication. Poor posture, trauma, stress, overuse, and old age can cause misalignments, making the immune system work harder when fighting threats and infections.
Correcting these misalignments through chiropractic care can enhance immune response.
Chronic stress is another significant contributor to a weakened immune system. Drastic life changes, issues with work, family, and relationships, and other problems trigger the release of cortisol. In excess, cortisol can cause chronic inflammation and interfere with immune function. Prolonged stress can also lead to cardiovascular issues, diabetes, cancer, and mental health issues. Back and neck pain are also psychosomatic symptoms of stress.
In the same way massage therapy can reduce stress, chiropractic care can help by promoting relaxation. It can alleviate stress-related inflammation, which interferes with nerve and immune function. As a pain relief treatment, it can also address stress-related back or neck pain.
Lymphatic drainage further shows the relationship between chiropractic care and the immune system.
The lymphatic system functions like a drainage system, removing waste and toxins from the body. It collects fluid, proteins, and waste products from tissues and filters them through the lymph nodes.
Proper lymphatic drainage plays a role in maintaining a strong immune system. Spinal misalignments impede fluid flow, which may affect the lymphatic system's ability to collect and transport such toxins, potentially leading to toxin buildup and reduced immune function.
Chiropractic adjustments can fix spinal misalignments, allowing the lymphatic system to function correctly. By promoting lymphatic flow, it supports the immune system. Additionally, as it can help with fluid circulation, it can help the body circulate nutrients essential for good health.
Chiropractic care makes for a holistic approach to health and well-being. Beyond the link between chiropractic adjustments and immune system function, it can improve your posture and sleep quality and relieve pain. With this holistic approach, chiropractic care can help make a conducive environment for our body's natural defense mechanisms to work.
While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between chiropractic care and the immune system, its emerging potential for supporting immune function is promising. By addressing spinal misalignments, chiropractic care can indirectly improve immune function. It can effectively complement your wellness plan, bringing various benefits, from reducing stress levels and promoting lymphatic drainage to enhancing overall health.
Allied Pain & Wellness is the top choice for chiropractic care in Burbank, California. Contact us today to explore the benefits of chiropractic adjustment for immune health.
Monday: 9:00am-7:00pm
Tuesday: 9:00am-7:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am-7:00pm
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 9:00am-7:00pm
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Sunday: Closed