The first week of September is Women’s Health Week, with a focus on different topics for each day from the 4th to 8th of September 2023. Women’s health is a broad category that covers conditions related specifically to women, such as menstruation and pregnancy. Understanding and improving women’s health is a central part of Chiropractic Works’ care.
In the quest for holistic health and wellness, women are increasingly turning to alternative therapies that address their unique physiological needs. Among these approaches, chiropractic care stands out as a promising avenue for improving women's health. Chiropractic care offers a wide array of benefits that cater specifically to women's well-being. Let's explore some of the empowering advantages that chiropractic care can bring to women's health.
1. Hormonal Balance: Women undergo various hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives, from puberty to pregnancy and menopause. These fluctuations can impact the musculoskeletal system, potentially leading to discomfort and pain. Chiropractic adjustments aim to align the spine and allow the nervous system to function properly. By promoting optimal nervous system function, chiropractic care may assist in managing hormonal symptoms1, such as mood swings, cramps, and bloating.
2. Pregnancy Support: Pregnancy brings about significant changes to a woman's body, including shifts in weight distribution and changes in posture. Chiropractic care during pregnancy can provide relief from common discomforts like back pain, sciatica, and pelvic pain. Gentle adjustments tailored to a pregnant woman's needs can help maintain pelvic alignment, preparing the body for a smoother labour and delivery2.
3. Postpartum Wellness: After childbirth, a woman's body undergoes a range of adjustments as it returns to its pre-pregnancy state. Chiropractic care can aid in this process by addressing issues such as postural imbalances, pelvic misalignment, and strains resulting from labour3. By supporting the body's natural healing mechanisms, chiropractic care may contribute to a faster and more comfortable postpartum recovery.
4. Menstrual Comfort: For many women, menstruation brings with it a host of uncomfortable symptoms, including lower back pain, cramps, and headaches. Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate these symptoms by reducing tension in the spine and improving nerve communication4. By enhancing the body's ability to manage pain, chiropractic care can make menstrual cycles more manageable and less disruptive.
5. Stress Relief: The demands of modern life can lead to chronic stress, which can negatively impact both physical and mental health. Chiropractic care not only addresses physical discomfort but may also aid in stress reduction. When the spine is properly aligned, the nervous system can function optimally, encouraging relaxation and allowing you to deal with everyday stressors more effectively. Your chiropractor can also tailor breathing exercises and rehabilitative activities to further aid in relieving stress.
6. Bone Health: Osteoporosis, a condition characterised by weakened bones, is more common in women. Based on research by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 23% of women over 50 suffer from osteoporosis. Chiropractic care can play a role in maintaining bone health by ensuring proper spinal alignment. When the spine is aligned, the body's weight is distributed evenly, reducing the risk of developing musculoskeletal issues that can contribute to bone loss5.
Incorporating chiropractic care into a comprehensive wellness routine can empower women to take control of their health and embrace a more balanced, vibrant life. Through a thorough assessment of individual health needs and goals, our chiropractors will ensure that each patient’s specific requirements are tailored to.
Give the clinic a call to see how chiropractic care can benefit you this women’s health week and beyond!
References
- Kushnir A, Fedchyshyn B, Kachmar O. Review of effects of spinal manipulative therapy on neurological symptoms. J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2023 Apr;34:66-73. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2023.04.009. Epub 2023 Apr 12. PMID: 37301560.
- Weis CA, Pohlman K, Barrett J, Clinton S, da Silva-Oolup S, Draper C, Lee J, Kumar R, O'Beirne M, Stuber K, Hawk C. Best-Practice Recommendations for Chiropractic Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Patients: Results of a Consensus Process. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2022 Sep;45(7):469-489. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2021.03.002. Epub 2021 Nov 24. PMID: 34836673.
- Henry L. Chiropractic management of postpartum pubic symphysis diastasis: A case report. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2015 Mar;59(1):30-6. PMID: 25729083.
- Meschino JP. Premenstrual syndrome: the role of nutrition, supplementation and chiropractic in PMS management. Dynamic Chiropractic. 2002;20(10):1-1.
- Cook A, Moss T, Malaya C. Osteoporosis: a review for chiropractic clinicians. Journal of Contemporary Chiropractic. 2023 Feb 10;6(1):29-51.
