Many individuals may be surprised to find that chiropractic-like treatments have been documented and discussed by physicians in medical texts dating back thousands of years. For example, the use of spinal manipulation to relieve back pain and extremity pain has been noted in medical writings since the time of the ancient Greeks. Since then, chiropractic care has come a long way to become the widely known medical practice today, utilized by more than 35 million patients annually in the U.S. alone. Today, nearly one million chiropractic adjustments are performed daily in the U.S. to relieve a wide range of ailments patients suffer from and support overall health and functioning. In the article below, we will explore the history and evolution of chiropractic therapy.

EARLY SIGNS OF CHIROPRACTIC

History has noted chiropractic-like therapy as an effective medical treatment dating back to 2700 BC, based on ancient Greek and Chinese texts. Specifically, spinal manipulation and adjustment of lower extremities to relieve pain have been recorded in medical documents dating back thousands of years. Additionally, a world-renowned Greek physician of the classical period, Hippocrates (460-377 BC), often known as 'the father of medicine,' published texts describing chiropractic principles and techniques. He famously wrote, "Get knowledge of the spine, for this is the requisite for many diseases.”

FOUNDATION OF CHIROPRACTIC CARE

Chiropractic therapy was founded by Dr. D.D. Palmer in 1895 in Davenport, Iowa. Dr. D.D. Palmer was widely known as a magnetic healer who extensively studied anatomy and medical journals. Dr. Palmer famously first treated a patient who had lost his ability to hear after experiencing a “pop” in his neck. After receiving an adjustment from Dr. D.D. Palmer, correcting the man’s spinal misalignment, the man had regained his hearing. Although, subsequently, chiropractic care was not found to be an effective treatment for deafness, it was found to treat a wide range of other ailments. After treating other patients, the healing phenomenon found by many patients was more extensively studied. Soon after that, a clinic was established where medical doctors evaluated patients after chiropractors adjusted them. In 1896. Dr. Samuel Weed named this newly discovered field of medicine 'chiropractic' which derives from Greek 'cheiros' and 'praktikos' meaning "done by hand." Finally, in 1913, Kansas was the first state to recognize and license the practice of chiropractic care.

THE PALMER SCHOOL OF CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Palmer founded the Palmer School of Chiropractor in 1897, in Davenport, Iowa. The profession was further pioneered by Dr. Palmer's son B.J. Palmer. The work carried out by B.J. Palmer, succeeding his father, helped the profession spread and become as prominent as it is today. Chiropractic care has survived throughout the centuries because of the many patients who have continually noticed improved health and pain relief after receiving treatments. The school founded by Dr. Palmer is now known today as the Palmer College of Chiropractic.

CHIROPRACTIC CARE TODAY

Over a hundred years ago, chiropractic care was prohibited by law in the U.S. until a licensing board was established in the field, allowing chiropractors to practice. Today, chiropractic care is legally recognized in the U.S. and numerous countries worldwide as a safe and effective method of medical care. Chiropractic treatment has evolved from being known as an alternative medicine to being considered mainstream. Many doctors and patients consider chiropractic care to be an effective alternative to invasive surgeries and pharmaceutical drugs for pain relief and relief from other health conditions. In 1988, the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) was formed. By 1997, the WFC was recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). In 2002, U.S. Congress introduced chiropractic services into the U.S. military health system to help treat various ailments of enlisted soldiers. In 2015, the Joint Commission, an organization that accredits more than 21,000 US healthcare organizations, has added chiropractic to its pain management standard. In 2017, The American College of Physicians released new guidelines for lower back pain treatment and has recommended chiropractic therapy first as a gentle, non-drug treatment. Today, over 35 million patients are seen in the U.S. by a chiropractor. The U.S. chiropractic industry is estimated to be worth over 15 billion, with over 70,000 registered chiropractors in the U.S. and over 100,000 registered chiropractors worldwide. It has also been found that chiropractic techniques are 40% more effective when it comes to treating low back pain compared to traditional medical care, with a much lower injury rate. It is also estimated that you may reduce pharmaceutical costs by over 85% by regularly visiting a chiropractor.

ATLAS TOTAL HEALTH CHIROPRACTIC

Our experienced team of chiropractors at Atlas Total Health Chiropractic is grateful to have served the Southeastern Tennessee and North Georgia area for over twenty years. Contact us today at (866) 668-0108 to learn more about our services and how we may help you.

Many people know that chiropractic care can be an excellent, natural, drug-free option for treating back and neck pain. Still, fewer people know that the benefits of chiropractic care go far beyond neck and back pain relief. Regular chiropractic care will restore joint function and range of motion, encourage spinal health, support your nervous system, and offer more benefits such as stress relief. However, in addition to supporting the nervous system, chiropractic care has been shown to boost the immune system as well. Previously, we have discussed more in-depth the various benefits of chiropractic care. Here at Atlas Total Health Chiropractic, we not only specialize in treating accident victims but also believe in benefiting overall wellbeing, including strengthening the immune systems of our patients so they may remain in optimal health. We use all-natural treatments such as spinal adjustments and correction, massage therapy, and decompression to promote overall health. Below we will discuss how chiropractic care will help your immune system and keep you in optimal health.

What's Your Immune System and Why Is It Important?

The immune system's primary role is to protect the body and fight against infectious organisms. Your immune system keeps your body healthy and functioning at its maximum potential by preventing illness. If the immune system is compromised, we tend to get sick or have trouble fighting off illnesses and infections. The immune system is made out of organs, white blood cells, tissues, and proteins that work together to keep you healthy. The immune system prevents disease and infections and helps you recover from illness or injury. If the immune system is compromised, you may commonly experience conditions such as seasonal colds, the flu, asthma, allergies, autoimmune issues, and other illnesses. Regular chiropractic treatment can boost your immune system to ensure that you remain in optimal health and recover quickly from any potential illnesses or injuries.

How Your Nervous System and Immune System Work Together

The immune system and nervous system work together to allow the body to function at its best. Both bodily systems work together by releasing hormones and messengers to communicate with each other and other internal bodily organs. The nervous system sends information from the brain to the body and can directly influence immune system receptors. The brain can use nerve cells to directly communicate with the immune system and trigger an immune response. Conversely, the immune system can send signals to the brain informing it if there are any foreign invaders in the body so the brain can direct the nervous system on how to react. Moreover, the central nervous system is linked to both the thymus and bone marrow, the regions in which immune system cells are produced. The central nervous system is also linked to the lymph nodes and spleen where immune system cells are stored. Medical research has found that an immune response is related to increase brain cell activity, and when antibodies are at their highest, the brain is more active. After receiving chiropractic treatment, studies have shown increased levels of antibodies in the immune system of patients after only one adjustment. In addition, many patients have reported symptom relief from sore throats, congestion, colds, and other viruses after receiving an adjustment from a chiropractor. This is because when vertebrae become misaligned, interference to nerve impulses occur which reduce the functioning of the nervous system.

How Does Chiropractic Care Help?

Chiropractors may help you improve your immune system by providing chiropractic adjustments that indirectly boost a patient's immune system. Several studies have linked the immune system, endocrine system, and nervous system. These systems share messenger molecules that communicate throughout the body. Information gathered from one bodily system is shared with other bodily systems to create optimal bodily responses for healing and adaptation. When one system is not functioning properly, other systems will be impaired. For example, a misaligned spine may impair the nervous system's functionality, impairing the immune system, making you more vulnerable to infection and illnesses. Chiropractic care is founded on the premise that proper nerve function is essential to regulating optimal body function. By releasing stress on the nervous system, the immune system is able to function more effectively from chiropractic care. This has been supported by numerous studies, such as:

• Australian studies indicating that chiropractic treatment may influence B and T lymphocytes, NK cell numbers, antibody levels, plasma bet-endorphin levels, and phagocytic activity
• A study done by Dr. Pero that found that chiropractic patients had a 200% greater immune competence than people who had never received chiropractic care.
• A study done by Dr. Brennan that suggests that spinal adjustments may have a direct effect on immune function. Her research indicated that adjustments to the thoracic spine enhanced the ability of white blood cells to release reactive oxygen species to combat bacteria and fungi.

Boost Your Immunity at Atlas Total Health Chiropractic

Atlas Total Health Chiropractic has over 20 years of experience helping patients recover from injuries and accidents. In addition to pain relief, chiropractic care at Atlas Total Health Chiropractic will leave you with a strengthened immune system. The nervous system impacts the body’s functioning, including immunity. If you find yourself suffering from infections, colds, the flu, ad other illnesses more frequently than you should call Atlas Total Health Chiropractic today at (866) 668-0108. A chiropractic doctor will design a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs to ensure you remain in optimal health.

OVERVIEW

Despite pregnancy being a joyous time for many expectant mothers, it often doesn't come without its own unique set of challenges. Aches and pains may become quite normal, especially in the lower legs and back, which may affect your quality of life. Luckily, chiropractic care may provide relief and help you manage and overcome several types of pregnancy-related pains and symptoms. Additionally, chiropractic care during pregnancy is known to offer several benefits, outside of pain relief. This article will discuss some of the benefits of chiropractic care for pregnant women.

CHIROPRACTIC CARE – IS IT SAFE DURING PREGNANCY?

The body goes through many significant changes during pregnancy to accommodate the growing baby. Relief may be available for some of the most troublesome pregnancy discomforts, including aches, pains, swollen feet, and raging hormones. Through chiropractic care that relieves pressure and restores proper alignment to the body by adjusting misaligned vertebrae and joints, the body can function optimally and work at its best to ensure you are in peak health during your pregnancy. Chiropractic care is a drug-free, surgery-free alternative that focuses on the adjustment of joints around the spine that comes with minimal side effects. During pregnancy, chiropractic care can help you achieve optimal health and reduce stress around the spinal column, which is exacerbated during pregnancy. It is well-known as a safe and effective medical treatment during pregnancy. However, discussing chiropractic care with your obstetrician/gynecologist is always suggested before booking an appointment with a chiropractor. Chiropractic care may not be suitable for all patients. It is best to avoid chiropractic care during pregnancy if you have been diagnosed with any of the following conditions:

• Ectopic pregnancy
• Placenta abruption
• Vaginal bleeding

CHIROPRACTIC CARE AND PREGNANCY

Aside from specific cases in which your doctor or OBGYN medically recommends refraining from chiropractic care to avoid further complications, chiropractic care is safe during pregnancy. It is always recommended to discuss chiropractic care during pregnancy with your doctor or OBGYN before receiving treatment. When receiving chiropractic care, no medication or invasive surgery is involved. Instead, chiropractors use physical manipulation to restore the body's proper alignment and relieve tension and pain within the body. With proper alignment restored, your body will be able to function optimally. Chiropractic care may help with stress, anxiety, and mental health conditions, improving immune response and function, improving posture, and additional benefits. Chiropractic doctors all undergo training related to the proper care of pregnant women. Some chiropractic doctors even specialize in prenatal and postnatal care for both mother and baby. Many chiropractors have specialized equipment to accommodate a pregnant woman's growing body to allow optimal comfort. In addition, they will often recommend a variety of stretches and exercises for the mother that are beneficial and safe during pregnancy.

BENEFITS OF CHIROPRACTIC CARE DURING PREGNANCY

There are many benefits to receiving chiropractic care during pregnancy and after giving birth. Chiropractic care is a safe, risk-free option for aligning spinal joints and even offers an additional range of benefits during pregnancy. Chiropractic care during pregnancy can provide the following benefits:

• Alignment of compromised spinal curvature due to growing waistline
• Reduction of nausea and morning sickness
• Restoration of the spine’s balance
• Maintenance of pelvic alignment to improve labor comfort, facilitate fetal growth, and improve the chance of normal delivery
• Reduced stress on the body and reduction of misaligned vertebrae or joints due to enlarged abdomen, pelvic changes, changes in posture, and increased back curve
• Improved posture
• Stress and mental health improvement
• Increased immune system function

After experiencing a change in your center of gravity during pregnancy, tasks such as sleeping, standing, or sitting comfortably can become difficult. In addition, when the pelvis is out of alignment, the baby's movement space and ability to move in the best position for labor can become compromised. Pelvic balance and body alignment can be restored through chiropractic care to allow the nervous and reproductive system to work more efficiently. In addition, chiropractic care can provide pain and nausea relief and make pregnancy a more comfortable experience. Although morning sickness, aches and pains, and swollen feet are typical of pregnancy, it is not necessary for you to be uncomfortable or in pain throughout your pregnancy. Contact Atlas Total Health Chiropractic today at (866) 668-0108 to discuss how chiropractic care may help you during your pregnancy or schedule a consultation.

SCHEDULE CHIROPRACTIC CARE TODAY

Pregnancy is one of the most exciting phases in life for many women. Still, it does not come without its difficulties. Chiropractic care during pregnancy can assist you with reducing all the undesirable aspects of being pregnant. If you are looking to achieve a healthy and happy pregnancy and reduce troublesome symptoms, give us a call to help you achieve optimal health during pregnancy.

Unfortunately, workplace injuries are not uncommon in the U.S. Annually, more than 6.3 million employees are injured on the job, and nearly 6,000 people die each year from work injuries. Work injuries can cause acute and long-lasting conditions such as loss of motion, back pain, tendonitis, and other injuries. Today, more Americans are working from home than ever before, and employees are often responsible for their own workplace ergonomics to protect themselves and maximize production. Whether your work from home or at a job site, it is essential that you ensure that your workplace ergonomics protect you to maintain optimal health and energy. Below we will discuss workplace ergonomic tips to ensure you do not injure yourself while working.

1. Maintain Good Posture

Your posture is an integral part of maintaining your health and wellness. Regardless of if you have a desk job or an active job in which you are mainly on your feet, it is important to maintain good posture throughout the day. Maintaining a good posture will help improve mood, reduce stress on the muscles, spine, and joints, and will also help to prevent injury. For example, if you work at a desk, avoid slouching, try to keep your feet flat on the ground, and maintain a straight back. It is also important to note that you should have a desk that is the right height for you. Desks that are too low or too high may lead to extra straining, resulting in injuries. Many desks are available on the market now that have adjustable heights and may even rise to allow you to transition from a sitting to a standing position. If your desk is causing you back pain, discuss this with your employer to see if any alternatives may be available. Your office chair should additionally provide you with lumbar support. If your work requires using a computer monitor, adjust the monitor to the correct height and avoid twisting and turning your head to view documents. When typing, you should try to keep your wrists straight and your forearms parallel to the floor.

2. Ensure You Utilize Proper Lifting Techniques

It is incredibly easy to injure the back and sustain acute or chronic back pain, pulled muscles, hernias, and more when practicing improper lifting techniques. When required to lift, ensure that you use your legs instead of your back, maintain a proper posture, and avoid twisting while lifting. If you are required at work to lift heavy items frequently, your employer may offer a lifting belt or other protective assistance to assist with heavy lifting and help protect you from becoming injured.

3. Ensure You Allow Time for Stretching and Movement

It is crucial time to take breaks to move and stretch, whether you are completing repetitive movements while on the job or required to work in a static position for lengthy periods of time. Repetitive movements and fixed positions can increase pain and fatigue and may increase your risk of injury. Taking a quick walk on your break or performing even daily light exercise such as walking, yoga, or other stretches can go a long way to protect you from injury. Remember, pain from cumulative trauma may appear days or even years later. Frequent stretching and movement are key to avoiding injury.

4. Maintaining Adequate Lighting and Avoiding Workplace Hazards

No matter the industry you work in or whether you work at home or in the office, inadequate lighting can affect safety, comfort, and performance. Lack of proper lighting may lead to headaches, eye fatigue, and injuries. Additionally, if you primarily work on a computer, ensure the monitor is not placed in front of a window, as this can increase eye strain. Take note of any other hazards in the office, such as poor ventilation, air quality, or chemicals that may cause headaches, stress, or other injuries. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your employer.

Workplace Ergonomics and Chiropractic Care

Although being aware of proper workplace ergonomics may help protect you from injury, injuries may still occur. Chiropractic care is recognized as an effective, drug-free, natural treatment utilized by over 35 million US citizens each year to treat their conditions. Chiropractic therapy is frequently used to restore range of motion, treat pain, reduce stress, increase recovery times, and help improve overall health. In addition, an experienced chiropractor may assist you with treating common workplace injuries, such as headaches, neck pain, carpal tunnel, or back pain. A chiropractor can help maintain your health and prevent further injury from the workplace. Adjustments to the spine or neck can alleviate the pain that may contribute to many of the above-listed symptoms. The experienced team at Atlas Total Health Chiropractic utilizes an individualized approach to deliver every patient with a care plan catered to their specific needs. Call us today to discuss the symptoms or injuries you have sustained and receive a consultation.