The Connection Between Chiropractic Care and Healthy Digestion

Recently there has been an increase in cases of digestive problems and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down. These digestive problems can range from chronic issues such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Chron’s Disease to chronic inflammation of the intestines caused by other diseases or even food allergies. Then there are those of us that have the uncomfortable inconvenience of a slower digestive system. Regardless of the cause, symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and/or a change in bowel movements.

Fortunately, you don’t have to put up with the uncomfortable, troublesome, and even painful symptoms. Many have found relief by merely changing their diet. When you have a balanced diet, eat a lot of fiber, and stay away from the sugar, you will find that it will significantly improve your situation.

Certain medications often help with the symptoms such as diarrhea, heartburn, and constipation, however, it rarely solves the underlying problem. Also, many medications recommended to help with digestive issues, especially laxatives, can create more problems for you. Understanding the problem will help you find the right solution to healthier digestion.

For example, it has been noted that regular visits to a chiropractor can alleviate discomfort and have promoted more frequent, less painful bowel movements. But how exactly does a chiropractic adjustment affect your digestion?

While it’s well known that chiropractic care can reduce inflammation and promote healing, there is a little more to it. When your spine is out of alignment, it can prevent your body from digesting food properly. This is because the nerve cells in the intestines tell your muscles to push the stool out the body. The same nerves connect to the celiac ganglion, which connects to the spinal cord and nerve roots that go through the spine in the lower thoracic and upper lumbar region. When your spine isn’t aligned correctly, it can cause pressure on these nerves, thus interfering with normal bowel functions.

How do chiropractors help fix the problem? They gently correct the position of your vertebrae in a safe and non-invasive manner using their hands to guide them back into place. Doing this takes the strain off the nervous system, and they can once again function naturally.

After a few visits to your chiropractor, you will experience improvement in your digestive health and may even find that the symptoms disappear altogether.