Chiropractic Care and Digestive Problems: What Should You Know?
Are you or a family member suffering from a digestive problem or stomach issues? If so, you may be averse to taking medications that come with side effects and other potential issues.
When digestive problems hold you back, consider seeking chiropractic care. In this article, we’re going to examine exactly how chiropractic care can help alleviate your digestive discomforts. Keep reading to find out more.
What Are Some Common Digestive Issues?
The digestive system consists of a complex group of organs that all contribute directly or indirectly to the process of breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. The system is so complex, that it even has some intricate neurological components which constitute the enteric nervous system.
Essentially, the digestion pathway begins in the mouth. As food enters the mouth, the teeth grind the food down, saliva breaks it down chemically, and then we swallow. As the food moves down the esophagus, through the stomach, small intestines, and large intestines; it finally leaves the body through defecation.
Each of the structures identified above has multiple, complicated nerve connections which ensure that everything happens in the correct manner.
With a system so complex, many things can go wrong. Some of the common issues affecting the digestive system include:
- Heartburn,
- Stomach Pain,
- Diarrhea,
- Constipation,
- Bloating.
Of course, there are many other symptoms and disorders associated with the GI system. But the above list encompasses some of the most common complaints.
What Medications are Commonly Prescribed for Digestive Problems?
Depending on the issue in question, a doctor may prescribe/recommend an antacid, pain medicine, a laxative, or another kind of medication.
While these medications may temporarily relieve symptoms, there are two main issues that come with relying on this type of treatment.
For one, all medications have side effects. Some side effects are minor and some are more severe, but all medications come with some risk of associated issues.
Secondly, most medications do not address the root cause of the disease. Rather, many medications address symptoms. For instance, Tylenol may decrease some of the pain from a stomach ache, but it doesn’t do anything for the issue that caused the stomach ache in the first place.
Alternatively, chiropractic care is geared toward fixing underlying causes of symptoms.
What Types of Digestive Problems Can Chiropractors Help?
Because of the neurological components of the digestive system, chiropractors will often look closely at a patient’s spine when he or she is complaining of GI issues. Any misalignment within the spine may decrease the ability of nerves to conduct impulses to the gut, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, and discomfort.
Therefore, after careful examination, a chiropractor may decide to perform a specific manipulation on a patient in order to relieve GI pain. In addition, the chiropractor may elect to perform soft tissue massage, and may even recommend some lifestyle changes in order to ease the patient’s symptoms. These lifestyle changes may include dietary modifications or exercise plans.
In the end, the main goal of chiropractic care is to improve the functioning of the patient’s body as a whole. In this way, the patient will be able to heal and address any issue that may be affecting him or her.
Anchor Health Chiropractic
For those searching for a Noblesville chiropractor who can provide relief from digestive issues, look no further than Anchor Health Chiropractic. Our dedicated team will conduct a thorough examination to identify what, specifically, is causing your digestive issues.
Once we’ve determined where the issue lies, we will work with you to develop a realistic treatment plan so that you can return to a pain-free life. Interested in learning more? Contact us and book your appointment today.
