How Chiropractic Care Can Prevent The Common Cold And Flu

Chiropractic patients who have been receiving treatments understand its restorative nature. Stressed muscles and vertebrae in the back do not only cause isolated pain. These symptoms often send pain to other parts of the body, notably the neck, and legs, called sciatica. And, when a Chiropractor performs a treatment, it can heal other parts of the body, too. For example, Chiropractic treatments have an outstanding effect on the immune system, preventing — and sometimes healing — conditions like the flu or the common cold.

Cold vs. Flu: What’s the Difference?

While similar, there are key differences between these two illnesses.
The common cold is mostly caused by rhinoviruses that affect the nose, throat and other related body parts. It does not, however, carry fever symptoms with it. Rather than spreading rampantly through infection, a weak immune system is most commonly the reason for transmission.

The flu, on the other hand, is ultimately a different illness. While flu symptoms are similar to cold symptoms– congestion and a scratchy throat– the flu also brings on other symptoms, such as joint pain and sore muscles. Many people consider the flu to be a source of great discomfort. Yet, left untreated, the flu can lead to more severe illnesses, among them pneumonia.

How Chiropractic Can Heal the Common Cold

At its core, a sickness like a cold or the flu is a sign that the immune system is dysfunctional. Professionals believe that the nervous system helps regulate the immune system. Because the nervous system stems from the spine, an unhealthy spine can lead to– or set the conditions for — a winter illness like a cold/flu.

In most cases, the Chiropractor will administer adjustment techniques that are universally helpful. These include diversified adjustment, instrument-assisted adjustment, trigger point therapies, and more. Before administering these adjustments, though, a Chiropractor will perform tests to determine the ideal treatment locations.

Why Is Chiropractic Care Better Than a Medicinal Approach?

Using modern medicine as a way to heal the flu or the common cold is a common practice. For patients seeking an immediate solution, medicine seems like the perfect choice. In fact, most non-severe cases of the cold and flu can be treated with over-the-counter medication. This medication is readily available, and easily accessible. Unfortunately, though, these medications lose their effectiveness as people take them, and the virus develops a resistance.

Chiropractic care, however, is a form of natural pain management. This drug-free approach to back pain carries little to no negative side effects. In fact, Chiropractic may even carry some positive side effects, including immune system benefits. Additionally, natural pain management means that the negative symptoms are less likely to return.

Natural, consistent Chiropractic care is the best solution when it comes to a non-harmful healing method.

4 Tips from a Chiropractor to Fight the Cold and Flu

1. Washing Hands Thoroughly

Especially during winter, when germs spread more often than normal, hand washing is key to immune system protection. Doing so before meals and after using the bathroom will work wonders in preventing germ transmission.

2. Take Supplemental Vitamins

Health-minded people take vitamins throughout the year to keep their nutrition fully balanced. During the winter, though, vitamins can have a substantial impact on one’s health. Taking Vitamin D3, Zing, Ginger, Echinacea, and Vitamin C– which boost the effectiveness of the immune system– is a great way to keep your body healthy. For more recommendations about vitamin supplements, consult a Bellmore Chiropractor.

3. Keep a Healthy Diet

The right foods will make a noticeable difference in your health. Citrus fruits, probiotics, green tea, and sinus-clearing foods like peppers should be a part of your winter diet. With the right foods, you can help prevent sickness from invading your body.

4. Get Plenty of Sleep

During normal conditions, most sleep specialists recommend adults get 7-8 hours of sleep. When the human body is sick, though, it’s helpful to get even more sleep. With more sleep, your body can better restore its immune system.