If you’ve ever suffered neck or back pain, you know how debilitating it can get. Back pain is one of the most common medical issues and often contributes to missing work. About 80% of people experience back issues in their lifetime, which can be initiated by poor posture, sports injuries, and other causes. 

People who have back pain often reach out to a chiropractor to help with back pain. These experts can adjust the spine and help with aches and pains that may make it hard to get through the day. We’ll share what you need to know about chiropractic below.

What is Chiropractic All About?

Chiropractic is a healthcare professional that has a focus on disorders of the spine and nervous system, as well as how those things affect people’s overall health. A chiropractor manipulates and adjusts the spine (or other body parts) to alleviate alignment issues, improve function, reduce pain, and support the natural ability of the body to heal itself.

A chiropractor understands that the spine can be strained or stressed through injury, overuse, or lack of use. These things can cause imbalances in the muscles, nervous system, and blood supply. Once that occurs, it can cause pain, ill health, dysfunction, and even disease.

The Primary Benefits of Chiropractic

When it comes to noninvasive, drug-free treatment options, chiropractic is widely considered the safest. It can be used to treat neck pain, back pain, headaches, and other nervous system and musculoskeletal issues. Since the adjustment occurs immediately, it can make individuals feel better as soon as the session is over. Manipulating the spine can help with muscle tightness and reduce pain while promoting natural healing.

A chiropractor can help relax tight muscles, release tension to the area around the muscle, and prevent spasms. They can do adjustments to help with range of motion or aligning joints or tape and brace sprained muscles and joints while they heal. These professionals can also recommend stretches and exercises or offer referrals to other healthcare experts. 

What Chiropractic Treatment Consists Of

Individuals who visit a chiropractor will go through a process of treatment. It starts with someone taking your medical history, performing a physical examination, and then using lab tests or x-rays to determine whether this type of treatment is the right option for your needs.

The actual treatment plan might involve various things. The chiropractor will do several manual adjustments using manipulation or gentle thrusts to the spine or another area of the body. Some chiropractors also offer other treatment options, such as nutritional counseling, exercise instruction, and lifestyle changes. Other options include ultrasounds, trigger point massage, heat and ice, and electrical stimulation.

Who Can Benefit from Chiropractic

While chiropractors typically work with the back and neck, they can also treat pain in the head and jaw, the elbows and wrists, the shoulders, the knees and ankles, and the pelvis and hips. They look at the entire musculoskeletal system and treat what is causing issues. Not only do they make sure your joints move property but they also ensure the muscles in the area are functioning the way they should.

Come visit Dr. Leto for your chiropractic needs in Key West. Darold Leto Chiropractic will help you with your back and neck pain. If you have any questions visit today and make an appointment for your chronic pain or even a check-up in Key West!