Even Hippocrates in the 5th century BC argued that with the help of manual therapy, many diseases can be treated. But controversy about the safety of this method has not subsided to this day. Today we will try to understand the features of the technique.
Chiropractic and Osteopathy
Manual therapy has come a long way. There was a time when there were two irreconcilable clans: chiropractors and osteopaths.
Chiropractic or harsh manual therapy is based on the use of jerks, metered blows and shaking. Thus, the “unblocking” of the vertebrae occurs and the general well-being improves.
Osteopathy or mild manual therapy acts more delicately – movements are performed smoothly, rhythmically, at a slow pace, without rough violence.
Nowadays, a competent specialist usually knows several manual ways effects on the spine, joints and articulations of bones, muscles and ligaments and selects the most suitable depending on the situation.
The condition of the spine directly affects overall well-being:
- neck problems cause dizziness, headaches, and even fainting;
- difficulties in the thoracic region signal themselves with “pain in the heart”;
- scoliosis – lung diseases and chronic diseases of internal organs.
But there is also the opposite effect.
Reverse effect
The scheme works and in the opposite direction: an impulse from a diseased organ enters the segment of the spinal cord “responsible” for it, causing a change in muscle tone and impaired blood circulation.
Manual therapy cures many diseases, but the lack of professionalism of a doctor can cost you your health.
A chiropractor can cure many chronic diseases and reduce pain by using your own hands as the main “medicine”. After its effect, blood circulation in the muscles is activated, thereby improving the metabolism, the muscles relax. Average the treatment course is 10-15 sessions.
On the other hand, any wrong move of the doctor may cost you your health… After all, a chiropractor, like a sapper, has no room for error. According to a consortium of Canadian physicians, almost 40% of all stroke cases in patients under 40, caused by trauma of the cervical artery, lies on the conscience of chiropractors.
Therefore, about referring to the “manuals” choose a specialist carefully: learn about his work experience, education, collect feedback from other patients and only then trust your back.
Remember that only doctor of special qualifications, confirmed by a certificate, has the right to use methods of manual influence.
According to an independent internet survey:
- 22% of respondents experienced increased pain after a manual therapy session
- 15% experienced dizziness
- 7% noted the progression of the disease
- 5% – weakening of muscle strength.