Chiropractic Info

Chiropractic is a part of the natural health care field. Chiropractic is an integral part of a drug-free health care regimen when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise. Chiropractic offers to the patient an alternative to pills and medication for discomfort and pain. Chiropractic is an effective discipline founded on the principle that proper maintenance of the spine through Chiropractic adjustment or manipulation will ensure the well-being of the body.

A Doctor of Chiropractic, also referred to as a Chiropractor, treats spinal column dysfunction. The Chiropractor sets out to relieve any spinal impediment to the normal functioning of the spinal column. Without spinal impediment to interfere with the essential functioning of the nervous system, the internal organs of the chiropractic patient are beneficially impacted.

Important to maintaining the good health of a patient, the Chiropractor, through manipulation, removes those obstacles which negatively interfere with the internal organs of the body. The spinal cord, housed within the confines of the vertebral casing, afford each of us a range of motion and degree of flexibility. In order to properly maintain the spinal column, the joints of the spinal vertebrae must be moving properly. When the movement of one or more vertebrae is impaired, this imbalance can disturb the nervous system. Manual treatment afford control to help the entire body.

Chiropractic is an alternative health care. It is natural and drug-free. In general, the patient who receives regular chiropractic adjustments is better equipped to maintain their good health.

Chiropractic Care For Better Health

Chiropractic is the leading profession in alternative health care. In fact, chiropractic has offered safe, effective, alternative health care for over one hundred years. Many people are surprised to learn that ten percent of the population is undergoing regular chiropractic care. Chiropractors are well trained physicians who specialize in conditions of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. A doctor of chiropractic is required to complete six years of education and pass national and state board exams prior to becoming licensed.

Chiropractic physicians treat musculoskeletal conditions involving joints, ligaments and muscles throughout the entire body. However, their primary concern is treating conditions of the spine. Specifically, chiropractic focuses on the relationship between the nervous system and the spinal column.

The nervous system is comprised of the brain, the brain stem, the spinal cord and the spinal nerve roots. The brain and the brain stem are enclosed by the skull. The spinal cord and the nerve roots are enclosed by spinal vertebra and the tail bone. The intricate design of the spine allows both mobility and protection of the spinal cord. Nerve roots exit the spinal column at each level of the spine and influence the function of every cell in the body. The nervous system is responsible for strength and coordination in our muscles, sensation to our skin and the maintenance of our organ systems.

The spinal column is comprised of the spinal vertebra and the inter-vetrebral disc. There are twenty-four vertebrae in the spine. Between each vertebra is a cartilaginous pad called the invertebral disc. These discs are responsible for protecting the nerve roots and allowing movement between the spinal vertebra. The spine and the spinal cord are surrounded by ligaments and muscles. These structures support the spinal vertebra in alignment and direct the spine's movement. Arthritic change or injury of the spinal column can result in damage to the spinal cord and nerve roots. This damage is often the cause of pain, numbness and weakness.

The Chiropractic physician restores and maintains the integrity of the spinal cord and its spinal nerve roots. This is by treating the vertebra, discs, and muscles in the problematic area. Treatment usually includes manipulation of the spine, physical therapies and exercise programs. Chiropractic treatment is safe and has been proven effective in the treatment of many spinal conditions.

Chiropractic manipulation is unique and is performed in order to return joint motion and structural integrity to the spine. Manipulation is not painful and it is done with minimal force. To gain optimal results, manipulation may need to be done several times over a period of weeks.

Most Low Back Pain Is Preventable And Easily Treated

It is well known that 80% of all adults will experience low back pain in their lifetime. Currently low back
pain is the second most common cause of missed work, only outdone by the common cold. Fortunately,
most low back pain is temporary and can be managed with conservative non surgical care. Serious
conditions involving weakness or numbness of the legs must be evaluated and treated with medical care.

The low back is comprised of five spinal vertebra located between the rib cage and the pelvis. Between
each vertebra is a cartilaginous pad called the inter vertebral disc. These discs are responsible for
protecting the nerve roots and allowing movement between the spinal vertebra. The spine and the spinal
cord are surrounded by ligaments and muscles. These structures support the spine and direct low back
movement.

The majority of low back pain derives from injuries to the discs, ligaments, and muscles. These injuries
are commonly referred to as sprains and strains of the low back. Occasionally a low back injury will
damage a disc. A damaged disc is called a bulging disc or a herniated disc.

The other major cause of low back pain is arthritis. Arthritis is inflammation of the joints in the low back.
Arthritis can be classified as either rheumatoid arthritis or degenerative arthritis. Both types are painful and
can be debilitating. Arthritis can be diagnosed with a few simple lab tests. Once diagnosed, many people
with arthritis can return to their regular lifestyle. The key to managing arthritis is diagnosis and treatment.

Most low back pain can be treated and prevented with a plan focused on therapy and active rehabilitation.
Spinal manipulation offers safe effective care of low back pain caused by strains and arthritis. Physical
therapy provides pain relief and return of function. Conservative and preventative care is recommended for
all low back pain regardless of the age of the patient or the chronicity of the condition.

The Peak Performance Center has several health care providers in our building who specialize in the
treatment of low back conditions. The center is developing as a comprehensive wellness facility.
Currently Dr. Scott D. Van Oosten D.C. is available for consultation and evaluation of patients with low
back pain. Please call 216-221-5556 to schedule an appointment today.