What comes to mind when you think of your chiropractor? For many thinking of your chiropractor may mean, finally loosening up your back or releasing the aches and pains of daily life. Many individuals experience discomfort due to sitting at a desk, or physical activity and exercise. But what would you say if I told you that some of that pain could be happening due to your mental health over your physical health?
Millions of people suffer from some sort of mental health concern, from work stress to severe anxiety and depression the list goes on. Mental stress has been known to manifest itself in physical symptoms. Our bodies begin to hold and manipulate space to hold stress, it may be mental stress, but it can be affecting our bodies. Tension migraines are just one example of how our bodies can manifest mental stress. The other side of this is that our bodies when going through pain can begin to create mental stress and increased anxiety. Imagine a time when you have felt emotions in your body, whether that’s knots in your stomach or pain in your lower back due to stress your feeling from work or school. Our bodies are set up to work for us not against us, but when we do not take care of them, we begin to see
the negative side effects of what we put them through. So now the idea of seeing your chiropractor when experiencing mental health concerns probably isn’t your first idea, nor is it the only answer, but what if I told you they may just be playing a part in your body’s overall health.
Chiropractors examine the spine for misalignment and look at how they may be able to manipulate and help to align the spin by relieving any existing pressure. By removing nerve blockages, and pressure chiropractors are allowing for healthy blood flow and nutrients throughout the body. An issue with our spine doesn’t just affect our bodies functions but can be a cause of nerve and mental pain. Washington Park Chiropractors use not only adjustments but exercises, stretching and breathing, to combat both physical and mental health pain. The idea being, a total body care approach. This would mean that when the body is functioning in order the entire system can rejuvenate.
Chiropractic care is not a proven practice when dealing with severe persistent mental health concerns. There is not a “quick fix”, or easy way to begin dealing with major mental health. Mental health is a multidimensional focus that includes many different styles of care including but not limited to, talk therapy, medication, physical activity and the list goes on. We encourage you if you feel you or someone you know are struggling with mental health concerns to speak with a professional. A good contact source is the Colorado Crisis Service hotline and web site, they can be reached at www.coloradocrisisservices.com or by dialing 1-844-493-8255, you can also Texted “TALK” to 38255 (Colorado Crisis Services).