Can Chiropractic Care Help with Anxiety?

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting over 18.1% of the population each year, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (AADA). Unfortunately, only about 37% of those suffering from anxiety disorders receive treatment.

Many anxiety conditions can be treated effectively with a combination of psychological therapy and other therapies, like chiropractic care.

In this article, look at how chiropractic care can benefit those suffering from anxiety or depression.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is the body's natural response to stress. The fear of something happening in the future triggers this response. People can be anxious when faced with new experiences, such as moving or getting a new job. A variety of situations can trigger anxiety.

Anxiety Signs & Symptoms

Stress can negatively affect the body's functioning and be physically debilitating. Although anxiety symptoms can vary from person to person. Common physical symptoms include:

• Fatigue or difficulty sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Migraines or headaches
• Stiffness and tension in muscles
• Body aches and pains
• Muscle tension due to inability to relax

How Chiropractic Care for Anxiety Work?

The purpose of rehabilitative and chiropractic care is to prevent pain and relieve tension throughout the body caused by anxiety.

Chiropractic care may reduce anxiety in several ways:

1. All Natural

Chiropractic care provides a non-invasive treatment that maintains a balance between the mind and body. Using the holistic approach, chiropractors evaluate the whole body in its natural state and offer modalities, including manual therapy, adjustments, and exercises for strengthening the immunity of the body.

Besides influencing the body, this approach also allows the brain to send signals to increase physical healing. Physical healing gives the mind control over the outcomes of the body.

A chiropractor may also recommend dietary and nutritional supplements, which can also positively affect the mind.

2. Release Positive Hormones

When the spine is out of alignment, nerves can be pinched, inhibiting the endocrine system's ability to regulate hormone levels. Studies have shown that the brain triggers hormones like neurotensin, cortisol and oxytocin following a chiropractic adjustment, reducing stress, inflammation, and boosting feelings of social bonding.

3. Reduces Tension, Stiffness, & Headaches

Muscle tension often accompanied anxiety. The purpose of manual therapy and rehab exercises is to release built-up stress and tension throughout the body. Adjustments and manual therapy are effective for relieving tension headaches, which are often related to anxiety. Chiropractic treatment involves muscle relaxation techniques that help the body to slow down and relax.

4. Improves Sleep Quality

Insomnia can be a symptom of anxiety or even anxiety medication. Studies have shown that chiropractic treatment with manual therapy can improve sleep quality and decrease sleep-related disorders such as sleep apnea, insomnia, teeth grinding, or jaw clenching.

5. Lowers Blood Pressure

Stress and anxiety are often associated with high blood pressure. Studies have shown that chiropractic adjustments and manual therapy lower blood pressure. When stress-induced blood pressure is under control, a sense of stability increases, especially in those who have anxiety.

6. Affordability

Chiropractic care is becoming more accessible, affordable, and more comprehensive in many insurance plans. This makes it easy for communities to get the effective and affordable care they deserve without high costs. Chiropractic care is an excellent alternative to conventional medicine, whether it is for prevention or recovery.

Takeaway

In addition to its physical benefits, chiropractic care and manual therapy also have a significant positive impact on mental health. At Family Chiro Plus, your health is our top priority. Following an initial assessment, you will receive a treatment plan customized to your needs. We strive to empower our patients to live healthier and happier lives that include both physical and mental wellness.