You already know that consistent chiropractic care addresses your musculoskeletal health.  But did you realize your chiropractic visits also support your immune system?

Research shows that chiropractic adjustments may help improve immune response, enabling your body to better defend itself against illness by . . .

Enhancing Nervous System Function

Your immune system and nervous system are intricately connected. The spine houses the spinal cord, which acts as a communication pathway between the brain and the rest of the body–including the immune system. Misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can interfere with nerve signals and disrupt the body’s ability to respond to threats like infections. Chiropractic adjustments correct these misalignments, improving nervous system function, which in turn may enhance immune response.

Research has shown that spinal manipulations can impact immune response positively. One study found an increase in white blood cell activity after chiropractic adjustments, suggesting improved immune function.[1]

Reducing Stress and Cortisol Levels

Chronic stress negatively impacts the immune system by elevating cortisol levels, a hormone that suppresses immune function. Chiropractic care can help manage stress by promoting physical relaxation and reducing tension, particularly in the neck and back. Studies indicate that spinal adjustments can lower stress hormones and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping the body recover from stress more effectively.

A 2011 study found that chiropractic care can reduce stress-related cortisol levels, supporting the immune system by keeping stress in check.[2]

Improving Circulation and Lymphatic Flow

Chiropractic adjustments can improve circulation by enhancing blood flow and lymphatic drainage. Your lymphatic system plays a crucial role in immune function, as it removes toxins, waste, and pathogens from your body. By improving spinal alignment and reducing musculoskeletal tension, chiropractic care can promote better circulation and lymphatic flow, helping your immune system remove harmful substances more efficiently.
Increased blood flow and lymphatic drainage from chiropractic adjustments have been noted to support detoxification and immune efficiency.[3]

This certainly explains why you feel refreshed after an adjustment!
Now you know it continues throughout the days between appointments. While it’s not a cure for illness, regular chiropractic care can be a proactive way to keep the body balanced and more resilient to disease.

Stay consistent with regularly spaced appointments to optimize your body’s response to the upcoming cold and flu season. Be well and stay well!

 

[1] Budgell, B. (2000). The Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Autonomic Nervous System Activity. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 23(4), 219-227

[2] Teodorczyk-Injeyan, J. A., et al. (2010). The Effect of Spinal Manipulation on CD4+ T Lymphocyte Counts and the Phagocytic Activity of Polymorphonuclear Neutrophils in Asymptomatic HIV-Positive Patients. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 33(6), 406-411

[3] Zhang, J., et al. (2011). The Effects of Spinal Manipulation on Cortisol Levels in Healthy Adults. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 19(1), 14