The body’s immune system is responsible for fighting off infections and keeping people healthy. It is comprised of proteins, tissues, organs, and white blood cells, all of which work in tandem with each other to protect the body from viral and bacterial contagions. While there’s no way for people to eliminate their risks of getting sick completely, boosting the immune system can both reduce the chances of catching contagious diseases and reduce the severity and duration of their symptoms. Read on to find out how chiropractic care can help.
Nerve Dysfunction and Natural Immunity
Nerve dysfunction, often a result of spinal misalignment, contributes to immunity problems. A weakened immune system won’t be as effective at fighting off illness and protecting the body. Heading to a chiropractor for a spinal realignment can reduce nerve dysfunction, which gives weakened immune systems a much-needed boost.
The compression of nerve pathways, known medically as subluxation, is one of the primary causes of immune system dysfunction. Getting just one realignment can start to put the immune system back on track, but it’s even better to schedule regular appointments for ongoing chiropractic care.
Improve Mobility
Regular exercise is also known to boost immunity. Those who struggle with chronic pain often find that it’s hard to get up and moving without treatment, though, which can place them at higher risk of getting sick. A chiropractor can help patients find safe, natural solutions to mobility issues caused by chronic pain, making it easier to stick to a healthy exercise routine.
Chiropractors often use a combination of spinal manipulation and manual therapies to reduce the inflammation and muscle tension associated with many types of chronic pain. They can also recommend targeted stretches and exercises intended to improve mobility without causing further damage, provide postural education, and may even be able to offer informed advice about beneficial lifestyle changes.
Reduce Stress
Stress and anxiety can also reduce the immune system’s ability to fight off infections, making people more susceptible to infections. Stress hormones suppress the immune system by lowering the number of lymphocytes available to release antibodies and destroy infected cells. Prolonged stress also makes people more prone to adopting unhealthy coping mechanisms like drinking and smoking, which further reduce the ability of the immune system to function normally.
Chiropractic manipulations help to reduce stress. They release muscle tension, soothe irritated nerves, and improve circulation to the brain, which can help to induce a more relaxed state. Many chiropractors can also suggest other lifestyle changes and relaxation techniques that could help.
The Bottom Line
Regular chiropractic care helps to boost immunity by ensuring proper nerve function, reducing stress, and making it easier for consumers to get up and moving, further improving both mood and natural immune system responses. It’s best for consumers not to wait until they’re already sick to start getting chiropractic care. Instead, they should call to schedule a consultation as soon as they notice issues like pain and stress affecting their lives, especially if they’ve been feeling sick.