Hard to Stomach

When most people think of a chiropractor, they think of neck and back pain, or sciatica along with other disorders of the central nervous system.  What usually doesn't spring to mind are issues concerning the digestive tract.  However clinical studies have shown that chiropractic treatment has proven effective at combating everything from infant bowel syndrome and colitis to ulcers and even Crohn's disease.  These same studies have shown that spinal mis-alignments can be the underlying cause for a number of gastrointestinal disorders.  Once these mis-alignments are corrected, the symptoms can improve dramatically.

This is good news for sufferers of digestive disorders.  In the US more than $80 billion is spent each year on drugs meant to relieve heartburn, acid reflux, gas, constipation, bloating, and diarrhea.  While these drugs offer temporary relief, they do not address the underlying issues associated with gastric distress.  In some cases, such as corticosteroids used to treat the symptoms of Crohns, they can actually cause greater susceptibility to infection or other side effects.

In 2010, sixteen men and women with confirmed diagnosis of ulcers took part in a study. The study compared the effectiveness of usual medical care to spinal manipulation, with both groups having a standard diet. The results revealed that spinal manipulation is much more effective at both reducing pain and clinical remission of ulcers. In fact, the spinal manipulation group healed an average of ten days faster than the medical group. This was confirmed with an endoscopic examination. Other studies on digestive problems have shown equally positive responses with chiropractic care. http://www.trustedhands.com/id441.html

adjustment protocols (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A 2008 study demonstrated how effective chiropractic care is for infants with digestive disturbances. Researchers chose three infants who were experiencing infrequent bowel movements from once a week to once every 3 or 4 days. Parents of these infants had tried several different laxatives and other procedures recommended by their medical staff. They had also followed specific dietary changes and the use of cod liver oil and mineral oil without any results.
The infants began wellness oriented chiropractic for periods ranging from three weeks to three months. According to the study author Dr. Larry S.Arbeitman, D.C., ` All three experienced almost immediate improvement.
http://www.naturalnews.com/029164_chiropractic_digestive_disorders.html#ixzz2NG9Bu0gm

The bottom line is that the nervous system controls digestion, along with other bodily functions.  The sympathetic nerves of the thoracic and lumbar region along with the sacral parasympathetic nerve fibers and the vagus nerve all have a hand in controlling digestion.  When the spine becomes misaligned in any of these regions, nerve function can become impaired, resulting in compromised digestive function.  Chiropractic adjustment to these areas has not only proven to restore function and alleviate many of the symptoms of digestive distress, but it can also improve the overall quality of life for patients.  If you or anyone you know suffers from any digestive disorder email them this blog and tell them to consult with their local chiropractor as soon as possible.  Because when it comes to relieving chronic digestive distress, merely covering up the symptoms is one thing that’s hard to stomach.

Dr. Dave Edenfield  and Dr. Steven Warfield are part of the team of doctors and therapists at http://www.lakewoodchiropracticjax.com/ who are dedicated to helping you and your family lead  healthier, happier and pain-free lives.