The Mental Health Benefits of Chiropractic Care
What are the mental health benefits of chiropractic care?
- Aims for a mind-body approach
- Improves blood flow
- Promotes better sleeping habits
- Releases positive hormones
- Relieves tension, strain, and fatigue
- Encourages relaxation
Aims for a mind-body approach
Chiropractic care generally has one main goal in mind — to find the right balance between your mind and body. To achieve this, a chiropractor will look at all possible options, including adjustments, exercises, therapies, and even diet changes. No stone is left unturned when a chiropractor tries to find the right mix of treatments for you. These efforts can create a positive impact on symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental conditions.Improves blood flow
Several studies have proven that the therapies and adjustments you receive during chiropractic care can greatly improve one’s blood flow. Researchers found that blood pressure was reduced after chiropractic sessions — these results are seen after a mere 15 minutes of massage therapy. High blood pressure is a symptom of anxiety, and can also aggravate other symptoms of the condition. This shows that chiropractic care can greatly improve one’s blood flow and as a result, help patients manage their symptoms of anxiety.Promotes better sleeping habits
Poor sleep habits — such as insomnia — can be a result of depression and anxiety. On the other hand, poor sleep can be caused by chronic pain and can increase the risk of mental illness. With chiropractic care, you may find that restful sleep is easier to achieve. Studies show that some chiropractic manipulation can effectively reduce chronic pain and other issues that negatively affect patient sleep patterns. This is because sources of pain and discomfort are dealt with, allowing your body to rest more easily.Releases positive hormones
The alignment of your spine is critical to your nervous system functions. When your spine is misaligned, pressure builds up in your nerves and brain, which can disrupt the normal chemical balance. This chemical imbalance can lead to changes in mood and increased levels of stress. After every session, treatment can trigger the production of some crucial hormones that help boost mental health, such as:- Neurotensin – eliminates stress-induced pain
- Oxytocin – boosts positive social feelings
- Cortisol - neutralizes pain caused by inflammation