Chiropractic Care: A Holistic Approach to Back Pain, Pregnancy, and Wellness

Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free healthcare discipline that emphasizes the body’s innate ability to heal through proper spinal alignment and nervous system function. With roots in the late 19th century, chiropractic has evolved into a widely recognized modality for addressing musculoskeletal conditions and promoting overall wellness. The role of chiropractic care in managing back pain, fostering holistic health, and supporting women during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. By integrating evidence-based techniques with patient-centered approaches, chiropractic care offers comprehensive solutions for diverse populations.
 

Chiropractic Care For Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent health complaints worldwide, affecting approximately 80% of adults at some point in their lives (Rubin, 2007). Causes range from acute injuries and poor posture to chronic conditions such as degenerative disc disease. Chiropractic care addresses back pain through spinal adjustments, which aim to restore proper alignment, reduce nerve irritation, and improve joint mobility.
Chiropractors employ a variety of techniques, including manual adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and therapeutic exercises, to alleviate pain and enhance function. A systematic review by Bronfort et al. (2010) found that spinal manipulative therapy is as effective as conventional treatments for acute and chronic low back pain, with fewer side effects. Beyond symptom relief, chiropractic care emphasizes prevention by educating patients on posture, ergonomics, and exercise regimens to reduce the risk of recurrence. Benefits include improved spinal alignment, increased flexibility, and enhanced quality of life, making chiropractic a cornerstone of conservative back pain management.
 

Holistic Chiropractic Care
Holistic chiropractic care extends beyond symptom management to address the interconnected aspects of physical, emotional, and environmental health. This approach aligns with the biopsychosocial model, which recognizes the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in wellness (Engel, 1977). Chiropractors conduct comprehensive assessments to develop individualized treatment plans that integrate spinal adjustments with lifestyle interventions. This includes nutritional counseling, stress management techniques, and ergonomic advice are common components of holistic chiropractic care. For example, dietary modifications may reduce inflammation, while mindfulness practices can mitigate stress-related muscle tension. Research suggests that holistic interventions can enhance immune function and improve patient outcomes in chronic conditions (Hawk et al., 2016). By empowering patients to adopt healthy habits, holistic chiropractic care fosters long-term wellness and resilience, positioning it as a valuable complement to traditional medical care.

Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Pregnancy induces significant physiological changes, including weight gain, postural shifts, and pelvic misalignment, which often result in back pain and discomfort. Chiropractic care offers safe, gentle interventions to support expectant mothers. Techniques such as the Webster Technique, a specific sacral adjustment, aim to optimize pelvic alignment and facilitate optimal fetal positioning (Pistolese, 2002). Studies indicate that chiropractic care can reduce pregnancy-related low back pain and improve maternal comfort without adverse effects (Lisi, 2006).
Postpartum, chiropractic care aids recovery by addressing spinal misalignments caused by childbirth and the physical demands of newborn care. Adjustments, combined with core-strengthening exercises, help restore pelvic stability and alleviate pain. A case series by Peterson et al. (2012) reported significant improvements in postpartum women receiving chiropractic care, highlighting its role in supporting maternal health. By providing tailored interventions, chiropractors enhance the well-being of mothers during and after pregnancy, contributing to a smoother transition into parenthood.

Chiropractic care offers a multifaceted approach to health, addressing back pain, holistic wellness, and the unique needs of pregnant and postpartum women. Through spinal adjustments, lifestyle interventions, and patient education, chiropractors empower individuals to achieve optimal health without relying on medications or invasive procedures. As a safe and effective modality, chiropractic care continues to gain recognition for its contributions to musculoskeletal health and overall well-being. For those seeking comprehensive care, chiropractic physicians such as Sentara's Dr. Gregory Schierer provide expert services tailored to diverse needs. To explore these benefits, contact Dr. Gregory Schierer at (757) 395-6900 or drgregoryschierer@gmail.com, or visit 984 Laskin Rd. Ste B, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.

References
•  Bronfort, G., Haas, M., Evans, R., Leininger, B., & Triano, J. (2010). Effectiveness of manual therapies: The UK evidence report. Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 18(3).
•  Engel, G. L. (1977). The need for a new medical model: A challenge for biomedicine. Science, 196(4286), 129–136.
•  Hawk, C., Schneider, M., & Vallone, S. (2016). The role of chiropractic care in the treatment of chronic disease. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 22(4), 259–262.
•  Lisi, A. J. (2006). Chiropractic spinal manipulation for low back pain of pregnancy: A retrospective case series. Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, 51(6), e7–e10.
•  Peterson, C. K., Mühlemann, D., & Humphreys, B. K. (2012). Outcomes of pregnant patients with low back pain undergoing chiropractic treatment: A prospective cohort study with short-term, medium-term, and 1-year follow-up. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 20(1), 15.
•  Pistolese, R. A. (2002). The Webster Technique: A chiropractic technique with obstetric implications. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 25(6), E1–E9.
•  Rubin, D. I. (2007). Epidemiology and risk factors for spine pain. Neurologic Clinics, 25(2), 353–371.