Bone fractures are very common injuries that can affect anyone at any age, but they are more widespread in those who are older than 50. This makes holistic and complementary treatments such as chiropractic massage more important than ever. The said statement is more affirmative if we take a closer look at the data.
According to a study that was published by the National Library of Medicine (NLM), there were 178 million new fractures (an increase of 33.4% since 1990) and 455 million prevalent cases of acute or long-term fracture symptoms (an increase of 70.1% since 1990). A separate report that was released by the NLM showed that by 2050, 50% of hip fractures will take place in Asia due to its growing as well as enduring population. With osteoporosis in men becoming a significant burden in the healthcare systems of Asian nations such as the Philippines.
Putting the said factors into consideration, it can be said that bone fractures are prevailing health concerns in the Philippines. On the one hand, conventional medical methods such as orthopedic surgery and casting play essential roles when it comes to managing the said condition. On the other hand, chiropractic massage and adjustments have emerged as complementary treatments that can support the healing process. This write-up delves into the nature of bone fractures, the benefits of chiropractic adjustment therapy, and how the said fields intersect in the Philippine context.
Bone Fractures: An Overview
In simple terms, a broken bone is medically referred to as a bone fracture, which can be partial or complete. It is usually caused by falls, accidents, sports injuries, and other traumas. However, repetitive forces like basketball, running, and other sports activities may also lead to the said condition. To add, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, osteoporosis, cancer of the bones, and other conditions that weaken the bones may heighten the risk of fractures.
When a fracture develops, it is classified as either open and closed, below is its definition according to the National Institutes of Health:
Open fracture
An open fracture is an injury wherein the broken bone or fracture hematoma is exposed to the external environment. It is often complemented by a traumatic violation of the skin as well as the soft tissue.
Closed fracture
A closed fracture is a rupture in the continuity of the bone, but the skin is intact.
The Benefits of Chiropractic Massage and Therapy in Bone Fracture Treatment
Speeds up Recovery
Chiropractors utilize chiropractic massage techniques as well as treatments that involve adjusting the joints, muscles, and bones of the body. If done properly, they offer holistic as well as healthier ways to speed up recovery by tapping the body’s natural healing capacity.
Reduces Pain Medication Use
Chiropractic treatment can reduce the need for painkillers, muscle relaxants, and the like. What does a chiropractor do to deliver such a benefit? By increasing the body’s mobility as well as range of motion. These factors can strengthen the muscles and reduce stiffness. Later on, this may relieve pain and discomfort.
To add, it should be noted that misalignments in the spine can have a negative impact on how the brain communicates with the nerves. Having compromised nerves, especially those that are set around broken bones can make the whole healing process more painful and uncomfortable. And since this can be treated by chiropractic massage, the need for muscle relaxants, pain killers, and the like, are significantly reduced.
Prevents Spinal Subluxations
Spinal subluxations are misaligned disks, or separation of the articular (the surface of the joint where the ends of the bones meet) can make bone fractures more painful. If not immediately addressed, they can cause complex muscle pains, which may lead to joint pain, excess scar tissue, and hemorrhaging, among others.
The good news is that chiropractors have undergone extensive training to correct subluxations and other misalignment issues. They can effectively, efficiently, and safely restore misaligned vertebrae to their appropriate position in the spinal column. The said healthcare practitioners do this with a combination of manual stretches and spinal adjustments.
On top of these, they may relay exercises that can be done at home. By religiously performing them, patients can limit subluxations from re-developing. This, in turn, can play a role in limiting swelling, improving posture, and, therefore, speeding up the healing process.
Minimizes Risk of Future Bone Fractures
Improved balance is one of the most significant benefits of chiropractic massage. This is according to a study that was published in the National Library of Medicine (NLM). It showed that patients who underwent an 8-week program experienced improved balance, and some showed reduced neck pain and dizziness.
As unimportant as it may seem, such a benefit can go a long way when it comes to reducing the risk of future bone fractures. That is because according to the NLM study, dizziness, with symptoms of excessive motion, imbalance, and spinning, contribute to bone fractures, disability, and the like.
What to Look for When Seeking Chiropractic Care in Manila
Interested individuals who are considering chiropractic massage and care for bone fracture should consider the following before signing the dotted line:
Don’t neglect medical evaluation
Prior to seeking chiropractic care, it is important to have the bone fracture diagnosed as well as treated by a medical doctor. It is important to note that the former should not be a substitute for conventional medical treatment.
Go for a qualified practitioner
Make sure that the chiropractor that is consulted is licensed as well as highly experienced when it comes to bone fractures and other musculoskeletal injuries.
Communicate
Patients should be transparent with regard to their bone fracture and medical history. This is important because being open with a chiropractic doctor ensures a collaborative approach.
Have realistic expectations
It is best to not go overboard when it comes to expectations. While the benefits of chiropractic medicine, especially when it comes to treating bone fractures, is simply profound, it should be noted that it is not a miracle cure. Therefore, it is best to set realistic expectations that align with fitness goals.
Summing up
Chiropractic massage and other forms of care are valuable complementary treatments for individuals with bone fractures. This is because of the fact that it can speed up the healing process, alleviate pain, boost mobility, improve balance, and so forth.
Along with chiropractic care, our doctors at Posture Perfect can come up with a comprehensive approach to bone fracture management that can complement your present fitness level and your health goals.
