Alternative healthcare is in demand with many people to help them avoid drastic medical procedures and prescription medication. One of the most popular forms is chiropractic. Doing adjustments and different exercises can help solve a myriad of health problems and since chiropractors aim to solve the root of the problem instead of treating symptoms, the results can often last longer too. Here are five of the top reasons that people visit a chiropractor.

Back and Neck Pain.

Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints people have as they age. While many medical doctors jump to prescribing muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory drugs, a chiropractor often has a different approach that may focus on spinal manipulation. Back and neck pain are often caused by stiff joints or pressure on the nerves and other structures around the spine, adjusting the vertebrae can help reduce this pressure and improve the movement and function of the joints. Massage, hot/cold therapies, and other soft tissue techniques are also used in chiropractic practices to relieve tension in the muscles.

If necessary, they can also give nutritional advice on anti-inflammatory foods which may work as an alternative for those who prefer not to take over-the-counter anti-inflammatories.

There are a lot of changes in the body during pregnancy due to the distribution of weight changing and space expanding for a growing baby. A visit to a chiropractor can help to reduce strain on ligaments, muscles and the pelvis. This can help to make the pregnancy process more comfortable for the mother, so she can move and sleep in more comfort.

Sports Performance.

Chiropractors that work in sports adjust the joints and may work on the soft tissues and provide strapping or exercise coaching/advice in athletes for injury treatment and prevention. Chiropractic care can help speed up recovery time for certain injuries through different stretches and exercises.

The sports performance benefits keep many athletes seeing a chiropractor regularly. Not only does it keep the body ready to play the game, but athletic ability is often enhanced through strength and conditioning. Keeping the body in alignment and properly maintained helps you perform at a higher level, when this is combined with coaching the correct body positions for different sports-related movements this can also help to prevent sprains, concussions, and other injuries.

Chronic Headaches.

Frequent headaches that interfere with day to day life can often become debilitating. There are various types of headaches but some of these headaches can be caused by the poor neck function which can increase strain on the muscles. This, in turn, may cause referred pain to go into the head, neck or face.

A course of chiropractic care that focuses on adjusting the joints in the neck and shoulders, working on the muscles around the area whilst complimented with appropriate posture advice can often lead to a reduction in frequency, intensity and the duration of certain headaches and often, in many cases, this can help to resolve them completely.

Wellness and Prevention.

Many of our patients take time to get an adjustment on a regular basis, just to make sure that they are staying well and preventing injury. Chiropractors can also make great recommendations on routine stretches to stay loose and advise on posture. When this is combined with progressive exercise plans we can help to keep you improving your strength and mobility between sessions so that you’re better equipped with an understanding of how you can also help to look after yourself just that little bit better.

Whether you need help to heal an injury or you’re hoping to enhance your body’s abilities, a chiropractor can help. Since you only get one body, it’s important to take care of it properly. Instead of resigning to a life of pain or masking symptoms with prescription medications, try visiting a chiropractor. Taking care of your health is an important part of living a great life.