Dr. Smith trained in a wide variety of chiropractic techniques from the more gentle and subtle to the vigorous and profound. Adjustments affect the body on a number of levels: neurologically, energetically, and physically. They constitute an integral part of a holistic approach to the body, and Dr. Smith utilizes Chiropractic in some form with most all his clients. If you are seeking a Chiropractor in Placitas or the surrounding areas of Bernalillo, Rio Rancho, Abq, or Santa Fe call or schedule online.
A Chiropractor for You
Background
The word “chiropractic” means “to be done by hand.” Chiropractors use adjustments to restore joint function and support the nervous system. They help patients maintain optimal health while avoiding unnecessary drugs or surgery. An estimated 50 million Americans see a chiropractor each year.
Adjustments help maintain a healthy lifestyle and decrease one’s experience of pain. They do so by 1) stimulating the vital connection between the brain and body, 2) mechanically reducing inflammation in the areas involved, 3) decreasing muscle spasms, 4) restoring/increasing mobility, and 5) helping to break the neurological feedback loop of pain.
Adjusting techniques range from very gentle to extremely vigorous and can be used on almost any age and body type. Our team blends a variety of techniques to craft custom treatments specific to the individual. His more commonly used styles include: Palmer Diversified, Extremity Adjusting, SOT, Thompson Drop, Activator, Gonstead, & Craniosacral
Conservative Care
Adjustments by themselves can be quite profound, and when combined with other modalities they can be used to effectively treat many problems. They have been found to positively impact blood pressure, some types of asthma, lower back pain, neck pain, headaches (including migraine’s), and a number of other painful conditions.
Adjustments are generally considered to be safe, but have been associated with soreness, headaches, VBA and stroke in some instances. Joint manipulation should only be performed by a well-trained professional. Not all techniques are appropriate for all people, and a well-trained professional will know how to best treat your body.
Techniques used by our team:
- Sports Chiropractic
- Gonstead/Palmer Technique
- Extremity Adjustments
- SacroOccipital Technique
- Activator Method
- Thompson Drop
A History of Spinal Manipulation
Spinal manipulation, the practice of applying controlled force to a joint in the spine, has a long and fascinating history. While often associated with modern chiropractic care, its roots stretch back thousands of years and across various cultures. Let’s take a journey through time and explore the evolution of this intriguing therapeutic technique.
Ancient Origins:
The earliest documented evidence of spinal manipulation comes from ancient Greece. Hippocrates, the “father of medicine,” described using manipulative techniques to treat spinal pain and misalignments as early as 400 BCE. Similar practices were recorded in ancient Egypt, India, and China, suggesting a widespread understanding of the spine’s connection to overall health.
Medieval Resurgence:
During the Middle Ages, bone setters emerged as traveling practitioners who treated musculoskeletal problems, often using manipulation techniques. While their methods may have lacked the scientific rigor of modern medicine, they laid the groundwork for future developments.
The Modern Era:
The 19th century saw a resurgence of interest in spinal manipulation with the emergence of chiropractic and osteopathic medicine. In 1895, Daniel David Palmer, the founder of chiropractic, claimed to have cured a janitor’s deafness by adjusting his misaligned vertebra. This event marked the official birth of chiropractic, which quickly gained popularity as a drug-free approach to pain relief.
Osteopathic Medicine and Beyond:
Andrew Taylor Still, the founder of osteopathic medicine, also emphasized the importance of spinal manipulation in treating various ailments. Both chiropractic and osteopathic medicine faced initial resistance from the medical establishment but eventually gained recognition and integration into mainstream healthcare.
The 20th and 21st Centuries:
The 20th and 21st centuries have seen continued research on the effectiveness of spinal manipulation. While its mechanism of action is still not fully understood, studies have shown its potential benefits for musculoskeletal pain, headaches, and even certain neurological conditions. Today, spinal manipulation is a widely accepted therapeutic intervention used by chiropractors, physiotherapists, and other healthcare professionals.
Conclusion:
Spinal manipulation has come a long way from its ancient roots. From Hippocrates’ early insights to the development of modern chiropractic and osteopathic medicine, its story is one of resilience, adaptation, and ongoing scientific exploration. As research continues to shed light on its potential benefits and limitations, spinal manipulation is likely to remain a valuable tool in the healthcare practitioner’s arsenal for years to come.