For many, a professional chiropractor (like the best local chiropractor in Wasilla, Alaska) is someone who helps to do adjustments to the body to provide relief. While this is true, a chiropractor does so much more. They can not only provide pain relief, but are an affordable and natural solution to many health issues. This article will explore more behind chiropractors and some interesting facts you might not have known about chiropractic care. 

A chiropractor is a medical practitioner who studies the musculoskeletal system. By doing so, they learn how to diagnose and treat various issues that affect the bones and muscles. They work to realign the body through the use of pressure and twists rather than with medication.  

Chiropractic adjustments might look easy, but they are very intricate. A chiropractor uses their sense of touch with the bones and tissues in an area to tell if there’s inflammation or other concerning problems. 

While many will use their hands for adjustments, there are a few tools they might implement along the way. One of the most common is an Activator Adjuster. This instrument has a spring-loaded top which the chiropractor presses onto a certain body area. After pressing the top handle of the Activator Adjuster, the tool will release a slight force. This is meant to help encourage natural motion again where that specific joint or spinal vertebrae area is. 

● Direct thrust technique: when quick, direct pressure is applied to the body, usually along the spinal cord. Loud popping sounds are usually made during this adjustment which is a sign that gas bubbles between the bones have been removed. 

● Spinal mobilization: intended mainly for those who have severe musculoskeletal pain as it involves gentle pressure. 

● Muscle energy technique: where you tighten your muscles while your chiropractor adjusts them. This type is ideal for athletes as it can help the chiropractor feel tender or stiff areas.

● Myofascial release: helps to remove tightness around the myofascial tissue through the use of hard pressure. 

Chiropractic care isn’t just about adjustments. In fact, you might be surprised to learn there are many other interesting aspects about it. 

● It’s Affordable

Unlike many doctors who sometimes charge staggering fees, chiropractors are very affordable. While some adjustments might be a little pricey for some, most adjustments are very budget-friendly. Better yet, most insurance companies help to pay for chiropractic sessions. 

● It’s a Natural Option

Many doctors like to prescribe pills to help with various aches and pains. However, chiropractic care relies on using natural methods to provide relief. Chiropractors use spinal manipulation which uses therapeutic movements on and around the spine. This can provide a release of any tension and stiffness you might be having. Because of this quick relief, you don’t have to worry about taking numerous medications in order to get help. 

● They’re One of the Most Popular Medical Practitioners in the United States

Chiropractors are some of the most popular medical practitioners in the U.S. In fact, it’s believed that one out of every ten people in the U.S. visit a chiropractor every year. Many often visit their local chiropractor every week or every few months. 

This care is also very popular for children. By giving young kids (and sometimes even infants) adjustments, it can help to:

❏ Improve their immune system.

❏ Help them get a better night’s sleep.

❏ Calm symptoms from ADHD and ADD.

❏ Decrease asthma symptoms. 

❏ Heal ear infections. 

❏ Relieve digestive problems. 

● It Can Help Heal a Wide Variety of Health Problems

A chiropractor can help you heal from a wide variety of health problems. You’ll be able to find relief for problems such as:

❏ Spinal problems

❏ Neck pain

❏ Ear infections

❏ Headaches

❏ Arthritis

❏ Scoliosis

Many people seem to find that pain they have had for years has disappeared after a few adjustments. While it might take some time, your body will work to naturally heal itself thanks to these visits. 

● It Helps to Prevent Future Injuries

Because chiropractic adjustments work to move your body around, it can help to prevent future injuries. This is because your body will be more flexible and mobile resulting in fewer injuries. 

Chiropractic adjustments can help with preventing both hyperextension and hyperflexion: 

❏ Hyperextension: when a bone or joint is pushed past its normal limits in a backward motion.

❏ Hyperflexion: when the flexor muscle is pushed past its normal limits in a forward motion. 

This is especially good news for athletes. By getting adjustments done often, your legs, arms, core, and back will not only be stronger, but help to prevent severe injuries from occurring down the road. 

Many professional sports teams have seen the power that chiropractic care can have on athletes. Because of this, many baseball, soccer, swimming, and football teams hire chiropractors to adjust the athletes. 

● The Adjustments are Painless

Some are a little hesitant to visit a chiropractor because they believe it will be painful. Many are also frightened that their bones could accidentally be broken. However, this isn’t the case. Despite occasional sounds of popping and cracking, you barely feel anything. Many patients also tend to feel very relaxed and free from tension after an adjustment. 

● It Can Relieve Stress

Chiropractic care can also help to relieve stress. This is because it can reduce tension and inflammation in the body caused by it. It also can improve circulation which can help to remove stiffness from the body. 

After an adjustment, your body will start to feel less anxious and rigid. It will also help to improve your mood which can prevent stress from causing more problems in your life. Because of this, your body will feel more relaxed, be more flexible, and even sleep better. 

While chiropractic care might seem like a simple form of healing, it’s one of the most powerful types available. It not only is an all-natural method for healing, but one that can prevent future injuries and certain health issues. 

Dr. Wells is the founder of Better Health Chiropractic & Physical Rehab which offers locations throughout Alaska. This practice is designed to help give you long-lasting relief from common aches/pains to severe injuries without having to rely on medication. Dr. Wells was inspired to begin his own practice after having experienced many unprofessional healthcare situations. Because of this, Better Health Chiropractic & Physical Rehab is designed to help provide adequate and caring support for those looking for a professional chiropractor in Alaska. 

Dr. Wells attended the University of Nevada where he received a Bachelor’s of Science degree and eventually moved on to Western States Chiropractic College where he received his doctorate. Dr. Wells is currently a member of the American Chiropractic Association and the American Academy of Spine Physicians.