If you’re tall like me, you can probably relate to issues around back pain. From slouching to looking down at my laptop, to hunching forward when washing the dishes to having limited leg room on long haul flights, it really isn’t a tall person’s world.
Life can be challenging for tall people. Everything seems to be designed with people of average height in mind, making life a constant struggle – imagine having to constantly bend or stoop to fit into spaces designed for people without such challenges.
It’s no surprise this can lead to a real pain in the back and all sorts of posture problems. In this article I discuss how I was able to address my back pain with the help of chiropractic care. Read on to find out more about this ‘hands-on’ form of health care.
First, What is Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care is a primary healthcare modality focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, primarily those affecting the spine. It is a ‘hands-on’ practice with a Doctor of Chiropractic using the famous ‘chiropractic adjustment’ to treat back pain, neck pain and other postural problems.
At its core, chiropractic care is about understanding the intimate relationship between your spine and your nervous system, and how this relationship affects your overall health and wellbeing.
In short, their approach extends beyond a single symptom and looks to address the root cause of pain and dysfunction.
For me, this was looking at WHY I was struggling with back pain and WHAT we could do about it.
Commonly Helped Conditions
Throughout my experience and interactions with healthcare professionals, I’ve learned that chiropractic care can be particularly beneficial for a range of conditions, not just back pain. Here is how they may help.
Back Pain
Chiropractors are most famous for helping with lower back pain. This was my initial reason for seeking chiropractic help, and the relief I experienced was profound.
Neck Pain
Like the back, chiropractors can often help when your spine or neck is misaligned, or you experience neck tension. Through targeted neck adjustment and stretching exercises, these sessions can relieve any associated tension or poor posture contributing to neck pain.
Headaches
Many people don’t realise that chiropractic care can also help with tension headaches and migraines. If your tension headaches are caused by stress, anxiety, or muscle strain – especially in the neck and shoulders – give chiropractic a try!
Disc Pain and Bulging Discs
It can be very scary – not to mention painful – to hurt a disc in your lower back. Chiropractors help with bulging discs by using spinal adjustments and manipulation techniques to relieve pressure on the affected disc, nerves and surround area. It may take some time, but you can heal up and recover after a disc injury.
OK – So How Does the Adjustment Work?
A chiropractic adjustment is an unforgettable experience. At my first adjustment, I lay down on a specially designed table. At the same time, my chiropractor performed sudden but controlled movements on my spinal joints to increase motion, relieve nerve pressure, and restore body alignment. He used his hands to apply force.
Before my adjustment, I remember feeling both anxious and excited. The chiropractor patiently explained each procedure step to me, making me feel safe and informed.
Adjustments were quick and painless. I heard a distinct “popping sound”, which turned out to be gas released from within my joint during the adjustment—a completely everyday occurrence during healing.
As soon as my chiropractor adjusted my area, I felt immediate relief and lightness in that area. Within a few hours and days, my back pain subsided, while my posture improved significantly – as if my body was slowly settling into its new, more natural position.
I continued with treatment on and off for several years and it formed part of my ongoing health care regimen.
I remember one particular moment, when the positive impact that chiropractic care had on my wellbeing became apparent. As I walked down my office hallway at work, for the first time in my life, I actually felt tall! And not just tall, but specifically, six foot two – which is my height.
I mean, I’ve always technically been tall, however this was the first time I ‘felt’ tall!
This moment was a pivotal one. Even my colleagues would comment “Marshall, are you getting taller?” they’d wonder, noticing the change.
A Holistic Approach
Apart from the adjustments, my chiropractor emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to health. I received advice on ergonomics, exercise, and lifestyle changes that would support my care while preventing future issues from arising.
Reflecting on my experience, I’m 100% sure that chiropractic care had a transformative effect on my life. It’s more than just adjustments; it’s a holistic approach to health that considers the physical, emotional, and environmental factors contributing to well-being. Approach chiropractic care with an open mind and see how your body responds. Although it may take time to see results, chiropractic care can have you standing tall and straight in no time!
