Chiropractic Care in Stroke Rehabilitation

Chiropractic doctor talking to stroke patient

About half a million Filipinos will be affected by stroke. It occurs when the brain stops receiving enough blood to an area of the brain. The said condition is the brain’s equivalent of a heart attack. Consequently, it can cause some parts of the brain to shut down. 

For those who are affected by the condition, immediate attention is required to minimize the damage. Continuous therapy may also be prescribed by a doctor for rehabilitation and full recovery. In line with this, chiropractic in Manila shows promising results as a complementary therapy for Filipino stroke victims, helping with musculoskeletal issues that inhibit body movements.

Chiropractic is a comprehensive healthcare procedure that involves diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders that affect the musculoskeletal system. Since stroke affects body movements and neural function, it can offer a helpful aid in rehabilitating stroke patients.

Stroke in the Philippines

In the Philippines, stroke is the second-leading cause of death. This is according to a study that was published in Research Gate. It comes with a prevalence of 0.9%. Here, ischemic stress, a condition where mental stress leads to abnormal heart muscle function, comprises 70%. While hemorrhagic stroke, a stroke that takes place when a weakened blood vessel ruptures comprises 30%.

According to the same study, age-adjusted prevalence rates for hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and obesity are 20.6%, 6.0%, 72.0%, 31%, and 4.9%, respectively. The ratio of neurologists to patients is 1:330,000, with 67% of neurologists working in urban areas. Healthcare is predominantly private, with costs typically paid out-of-pocket by patients and their families. Key challenges include providing adequate support to rural communities and underprivileged sectors.

The neurological impact of stroke

Neurological activity shuts off when a stroke occurs. Due to lack of oxygen, neurons die, and electric signals lose their channels. A stroke episode impacts different neurological mechanisms and related functions.

The nervous system

Dead brain cells form patches of gaps in the passageway of electric signals from the brain to the body’s organs. As neurons die from a lack of oxygen and essential nutrients, the nervous system fails to communicate commands to enable muscle movement and proper organ function. This leads to various impairments, including partial or complete paralysis.

Musculoskeletal system

The nervous and musculoskeletal systems are closely interconnected. When crucial neural networks in the brain are badly hit, the connected musculoskeletal parts are also impacted. As a result of this link, stroke can paralyze the muscle by rendering it stiff or limp. This affects the body’s coordination, balance, and posture.

This is where chiropractic treatment comes in. It can help improve posture, and this can pave the way to improved coordination as well as balance.

Central segmental motor control

Central segmental motor control is a condition that affects the spinal column and impairs joint movement. Improper interaction of bones meeting on a joint can restrict the central nervous system from regulating neuromuscular function. This may lead to tight vertebral muscles and issues with movement and posture.

Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity is an important concept in stroke recovery. It refers to the ability of the brain’s neural network to reorganize itself. Later on, it changes its structure to adapt to injuries and changes caused by other factors. This feature is helpful in the rehabilitation and reintegration of stroke victims into their prior lifestyle.

Chiropractic and stroke rehabilitation

Recovery from stroke involves different therapies that are designed to reintroduce skills that are lost due to impaired neurological and musculoskeletal regions. Chiropractic in Manila, Philippines provides a complementary boost to rehabilitative therapies for stroke. In fact, a study published in the National Library of Medicine found that stroke patients who had undergone chiropractic showed improvements in muscle strength.

Spinal column and the nervous system

Chiropractic focuses on the connection between the spinal column and the nervous system. Particularly, it corrects misalignment in the neuro and musculoskeletal structure of the body through measured adjustments. 

The price of chiropractic in Manila varies and is based on a number of factors. The long list includes the gravity of one’s condition, the treatment required, a doctor of chiropractic’s experience level, and so on. The relief that it brings, however, is priceless. 

Through expert adjustment and manipulation, chiropractors align the spinal column that encases the spinal cord, improving neural function and signal transmission from the brain to the muscles. This can improve joint mechanics and can trigger neuroplasticity. Factors that are helpful in stroke recovery.

Sensory receptors 

Chiro care also activates sensory receptors in joints and muscles. Later on, this facilitates seamless signal transfer along neural pathways, which enables better control of the body’s movements. Improved mobility allows patients to keep up with their primary stroke therapy and perform better. This, in turn, can also contribute to faster recovery since chiropractic can tap the body’s capacity to heal itself.

Motor function 

Getting a chiropractic in Manila can also help in managing spasticity or muscle tightness and spasms that interferes with motor function. Spasticity is a common post-stroke complication. With regular therapy accompanied by guided chiropractic care, patients can benefit from reduced spasticity and musculoskeletal pain. 

Balance and function

Another benefit of chiropractic is enhanced balance and posture. These are some of the crucial skills monitored and relearned during stroke rehabilitation. Proper adjustments in the vertebral column can increase the range of motion and allow painless bending and rotation. They can make simple tasks such as walking and standing straight easier. 

Safety and reminders

A study showed positive results linked to chiropractic for short-term treatment. To ensure that chiro is the right way to go, communicating with healthcare professionals must be continuous. Collaborate with skilled chiropractors, physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other medical experts, and keep in touch for crucial updates or progress.

Chiropractic procedures are not recommended for patients in the acute phase of stroke. They are also contraindicated among those with unstable medical conditions and tear in the arterial wall of the neck region. The said holistic approach is generally safe, but consulting experts before any type of procedure is a must. This is because it ensures that chiropractic treatment is appropriate for the patient’s condition.

Complementary chiropractic care for stroke victims

Chiropractic in Manila, Philippines is performed to complement primary stroke rehabilitation therapies. Stroke affects the interconnected neurological and musculoskeletal networks of the body, leaving patients partially or completely paralyzed after an episode. 

Chiropractic focuses on fixing misalignment in the spinal column that protects the spinal cord. This brings in several benefits, including optimal neurological function, which enables the brain to efficiently send signals to different parts of the body, improved mobility, pain management, and enhanced balance and posture.

Positive results emerged in studies, demonstrating chiro’s potential in promoting stroke rehabilitation. However, the long-term impact of the procedure remains unknown. 

Constant communication with a team of professional healthcare providers and therapists ensures that patients receive the safest and most appropriate treatment for each case. As stroke doesn’t only impact the patient, family members and caregivers must also be aware of prescriptions and contraindications by regularly consulting with experts before deciding on any procedure.

Visit us at Posture Perfect Chiropractic

Recover your physical capacity to move freely and live your life to the fullest after a stroke by undergoing chiropractic treatments. You may experience improvements in your movement, muscle control, and so forth. Book an appointment at Posture Perfect Chiropractic and discover how our doctors of chiropractic can perform treatments that can assist in your recovery journey. 

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Navigating Chiropractic Therapy: A Guide to Clinic Selection

Chiropractic clinic with bed, plants, and chair

Chiropractic therapy has become popular nowadays because it offers a drug-free and non-invasive approach to pain management. Particularly for back, shoulder, and neck pain, by addressing spinal subluxation (misaligned vertebrae) through adjustments. It can alleviate discomfort, improve joint mobility, and enhance overall health and well-being if correctly performed. 

Bear in mind that not all chiropractic clinics are created equal. That said, individuals who are considering getting treatment need to perform due diligence to select the right one. That’s because this can be a step towards achieving their health goals. Do you need help with this matter? This article can be an extensive guide that can help them navigate the whole process of finding the right chiro clinic that can best suit their needs. Read on to find out more.

Qualifications and experience

When entrusting one’s health to a holistic practitioner for chiropractic therapy, working with one who has obtained the necessary qualifications and expertise is essential. In the Philippines, chiropractors must be duly-certified by the Philippine Institute Of Traditional And Alternative Health Care (PITAHC) to practice legally. On top of this, they need to be a medical doctor and an educator practicing in the country. They should also possess good moral character and have not–in any way–violated the ethical standards of the profession. 

It’s also best to perform an extensive background check on the clinic. In the process, confirm if the necessary paperwork and licenses are obtained before operation. Such due diligence ensures that interested parties receive optimum care from reputable professionals and institutions. 

Experience

When opting for chiropractic therapy, experience is a crucial factor that should not be taken for granted. For one, experienced chiropractors have more time to refine their skill set and develop a more keen understanding of the whole musculoskeletal system. This, in turn, allows them to provide more targeted and advanced treatments. In line with this, chances are they have treated several conditions and patients. Giving them a broader perspective and the capacity to adapt their treatment method to individual needs. 

Furthermore, with experience comes the capacity to identify potential or underlying health complications that may require the attention or referral of other healthcare experts. 

Specialized training

Specialized training is essential when hiring a chiropractor because it ensures that they have the skills and knowledge to effectively and efficiently treat specific conditions or work with certain patient populations. For instance, a chiropractor who has undergone extra training in areas like sports medicine, geriatrics, pediatrics, or neurology can provide more targeted as well as extensive care for patients with specific needs. 

For instance, a chiropractic doctor with specialized training in sports medicine will be better equipped to treat and prevent sports-related injuries. This is because they have a more profound comprehension and appreciation of the unique demands of athletes. Accordingly, a chiro with specialized training in pediatrics will be more knowledgeable about children’s development and health issues. This way, they can provide more appropriate age-related care.

Clear understanding of the human body

A practitioner of chiropractic therapy should know how the human body works: the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, spine, body movements, and so forth. The holistic approach can ensure that one’s health concerns are addressed and well-rounded care is performed along the way.

In addition to the aforementioned requirements, a chiropractor should embody the following qualities:

Patient focused

A reputable and trustworthy chiropractor is going to prioritize one’s individual needs as well as comfort. They will be attentive and listen extensively to patients’ concerns. In addition to all these, they will consider treatment goals when developing a care plan.

Strong ethical values

Patients are advised to go for a chiropractor who can demonstrate a firm commitment to upholding ethical standards and providing the best possible care. They should feel comfortable discussing health concerns with them and trust their decision. This, no matter how simple or complex it, may be.

Commitment to learning

Like other forms of healthcare treatment, chiropractic is a dynamic field that’s complemented by ongoing research that paves the way to future advancements. With this in mind, it’s best to go for a doctor of chiro who makes it a point to be up-to-date with the latest research. They should utilize cutting-edge equipment and accessories to deliver effective and efficient chiropractic therapy.

Positive reviews

Going to a chiropractor with positive reviews is ideal because it provides insights into the experiences and satisfaction levels of previous patients. Positive reviews suggest that a practitioner is skilled, knowledgeable, and effective in providing treatment. Patients who take time to leave positive feedback often do so because they’ve had notable improvements in their condition or an excellent experience with the chiropractor and the clinic staff.

Summing Up 

Choosing the clinic for chiropractic therapy is a serious decision that can significantly impact one’s overall health and well-being. By considering the factors that were elaborated above, patients can make an informed decision that can align with their specific needs as well as preferences. 

When looking for a chiropractic clinic, go for one composed of chiropractic doctors with proven experience and expertise. Something in the mold of Posture Perfect Chiropractic. 

So book an appointment now. Our team is dedicated to understanding your condition and taking essential steps to help you achieve your health goals. Whether it’s addressing pain relief, managing inflammation, or improving posture, Posture Perfect has you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are red flags in chiropractic?

When considering chiropractic care, it’s essential to be aware of certain medical conditions that may be red flags or contraindications for spinal manipulations. Severe osteoporosis (metabolic bone fragility disease), multiple myeloma (cancer affecting the body’s plasma cells), Osteomyelitis (spinal bone infection).

What not to do before seeing a chiropractor?

Avoid eating a big meal before your chiropractic adjustment. You want to be comfortable during your adjustment, and a full stomach can make you feel bloated and uncomfortable. Eat a light meal or snack an hour or two before your appointment.

What are chiropractic red flags?

If a chiropractic doctor doesn’t communicate properly, explain treatments, or disregard questions, that’s a red flag. Also, if one ignores concerns and rushes appointments, he or she doesn’t prioritize your health.

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The Role of Chiropractic Care in Managing Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a serious ailment that affects millions of Filipinos. Heralded as the “silent killer” because a significant number of cases do not cause noticeable symptoms. If not addressed, it can significantly increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other life-threatening conditions.  For reference, according to Oxford Academic, it’s predicted that about 33.82% of Filipinos will be affected by the said ailment by 2050. 

The good news is that all is not lost due to the fact that the probability of developing hypertension can be reduced through chiropractic therapy.

How chiropractic can address hypertension

Chiropractic takes enhances how the spine and the nervous system interact with each other. Misalignments of the spine (subluxations) disrupt customary nerve function. This disturbance can hurt different systems in the body, including the circulatory system (heart, blood vessels, arteries, lymph system, etc.), magnifying the risk of hypertension. Gentle adjustments restores proper spinal alignment, improves nerve function, and promotes better blood pressure control.

Nervous system influence

The sympathetic nervous system plays a key role in the long-term regulation of arterial blood pressure. It allows the nervous system to process neurohumoral (heart and vasculature are regulated) signals and selectively control sympathetic neural input to specific target organs.

Chiropractic therapy for hypertension concentrates on the connection between the spine and the nervous system. Here, misalignments in the spine can impede nerve signals, potentially affecting blood pressure regulation. During therapy sessions, gentle alignments are performed to restore proper spinal alignment, improving nerve function and promoting better hypertension management.

Stress reduction

According to a study that was published in PubMed, stress can cause hypertension via repeated blood pressure elevations as well as stimulation of the nervous system to produce inappropriate amounts of vasoconstricting (narrowing of the blood vessels) hormones. This can increase blood pressure and the risk of many chronic ailments. 

Factors that affect blood pressure through stress include job issues, emotional distress, social environment, and so on. In line with this, it should be noted that stress in Manila is quite high, with a significant number of the population experiencing work-related stress, anxiety, and so forth. In fact, according to a study that was performed by AXA Mind Health, 87% of Filipinos encounter work-related stress. 

This is where chiropractic therapy comes. It can play a key role in hypertension management. Primarily through its potential stress-relieving benefits. There are several ways a doctor of chiro helps reduce stress. Some of the most notable ones are as follows:

Reduce muscle tension

Stress can tense the muscles and because of this, certain individuals may experience difficulty sleeping. A chiropractor can loosen up the tension and restore the body’s natural balance.

Restore body functions

The spine is one of the foundations of the neurological system. The brain pretty much communicates everything: breathing, swallowing, etc. A chiro, through spinal adjustments, may help restore your body functions. Consequently, individuals who undergo chiropractic treatment may feel more energized and basically less stressed.

Good nutrition

Good nutrition is one of the foundations of health maintenance. In line with this, it is important for hypertensive individuals to embrace good nutrition if they want to improve their overall health. This is where a chiropractor can be beneficial. He or she may provide counsel including supplements that their body may be lacking.

Improved blood flow

A restriction in the spine or central nervous system may be one of the culprits of reduced blood flow, putting the long-term health of certain individuals at risk. To address the need, a doctor of chiro can treat the misaligned discs via manual stimulation and other techniques. In addition, he or she can also help release pressure from the nerves and allow proper blood flow. 

The whole process also helps boost the overall health and the structural integrity of your spine to help the central nervous system perform at an optimum level. Reports show that a significant number of patients experience immediate positive results, especially when it comes to reduced pain and inflammation. 

Chiropractic therapy beyond blood pressure

Ready to take control of your health?  Schedule a consultation with Posture Perfect Chiropractic today and discover how we can help you address hypertension naturally through improved spinal alignment and nervous system function.  

Call us now or visit our website to book your appointment!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a chiropractor help with high blood pressure?

Studies suggest that chiropractic therapy can lower blood pressure. A study from the University of Chicago showed that special chiropractic adjustments lowered blood pressure among patients.

Can back misalignment cause high blood pressure?

Spine misalignments, particularly in the upper cervical area (neck area) can disrupt nervous system function, contributing to hypertension.

Is chiropractic good for the heart?

Chiropractic care can prevent heart disease by fixing spinal misalignments that can have a detrimental impact on nerve function and blood flow. This has the potential to reduce blood pressure by improving circulation, which in turn, can lead to an improved cardiovascular system.

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