CHIROPRACTIC

By Dr Orly Zuker, Chiropractor
(B.Appl.Sci: Comp Med, Clin Chiro: Masters, B.Nursing)

In the history of conventional health care (allopathy or medicine), symptoms were viewed as a result of the body malfunctioning and upon seeking medical care, a patient was in most cases prescribed medication with the mere intention being to eliminate or mask the symptoms. Masking symptoms with medications (although sometimes necessary), may not always be in the best interest of the body’s attempt to adapt and heal. For example if anti-inflammatory medications are used in the alleviation of pain associated with ankle sprains/ ligament tears (rather than using rest, ice and crutches), further damage to the injured joint may result as inflammation and ‘limping’ is the body’s way of communicating to take weight off the injured ankle, to allow it to heal appropriately. In addition, often medications have damaging side effects that require further medication or medical intervention.

Today, with the growing acceptance of complimentary and alternative health care, a new paradigm or approach towards symptoms and illness has evolved. Fortunately today, science is beginning to appreciate that the human body has an incredible intelligence and ability to self-heal and regulate (and in most cases can do this without assistance). Physiology tells us that this is made possible through the nervous system. In response to external stimulus (a loud noise, a bump, fall or trauma etc), the nervous system coordinates all bodily systems and allows you to adapt to change for survival…

The nervous system is (in a nut shell) the body’s master controller/ electrical switchboard. It is through this complexly functioning system that messages are sent from the brain to muscles/ organ and back to the brain again. If we injure ourselves, are exposed to environmental toxins, develop an infection, burn our hand or are frightened by a loud noise or dangerous animal, it is our nervous system that provides or allows a response to this stimulus to take place. Without this adaptation we wouldn't be able to protect ourselves or survive.

Chiropractic is the second largest primary health care modality in the world and has been established since its beginning in 1895. Chiropractic health care is based on a philosophy which respects the innate (inbuilt/ natural) intelligence that exists within us, and that without nerve interference, you are able to achieve a state of optimal health and vitality. Regular Chiropractic adjustments, while not necessarily preventing cancer or heart attacks, may be a helpful preventative measure in improving overall health and wellbeing. Chiropractors at the same time as adjusting the spine, pelvis, cranium, peripheral joints & jaw, will guide and educate their patients about such things as; diet & nutrition, exercise, sleep, emotional health, posture and ergonomics, which all add together to create a healthy formula for longevity.

Chiropractic adjustments correct joint dysfunction and remove nervous system interference (vertebral subluxations). Chiropractic care may be the missing link in your health and may allow you to experience greater levels of vitality and wellbeing. Chiropractic doctors strive to ensure that such important communication mechanisms are not ignored or disregarded, and in doing so look outside of the square to treat the ‘cause’ of your presenting complaint.

In the past many people have assumed that Chiropractic care is only useful when the damage has already occurred; when they can’t walk or move, or when acute pain is present. The good news is that Chiropractic offers preventative and wellness care and as a result society is starting to realise that the ‘fix it when it’s broken’ approach to health care is ineffective and has led to a rise in lifestyle illnesses and disease…

The Chiropractic approach to health care is safe, non-invasive and conservative, respecting that symptoms are the body’s way of communicating. There are many treatment techniques that exist in order to suit each individual and can be modified accordingly. From a new born baby, to a sports person, tradie, office worker, medical professional, mum, dad, a grandparent or elderly person. Chiropractic adjustments may be the missing link to get you back on your feet, enjoy and loving life!