Chiropractic care often focuses on the spine, but extremity adjusting plays a crucial role in achieving optimal health. Extremity adjustments target joints outside the spine, such as the shoulders, wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles, to improve biomechanical function and relieve pain. This comprehensive approach addresses the root causes of discomfort and dysfunction, providing holistic healing.
Understanding Subluxation and Proprioceptive Deficit
Subluxation, or misalignment of the vertebrae, can disrupt the brain’s ability to accurately perceive the body’s position and movement, leading to a proprioceptive deficit. This confusion causes decreased neuromuscular control and instability, making the body susceptible to injuries. Correcting these subluxations through chiropractic care restores proper communication between the brain and body, reducing the risk of further injury.
Ground Force Reactions and Heel Strike Dysfunction
Ground force reactions refer to the impact the body feels during activities like walking or running. Heel strike dysfunction occurs when the heel does not strike the ground correctly, leading to improper force distribution. This dysfunction can cause issues throughout the kinetic chain, from the feet to the spine. Addressing these problems through extremity adjustments ensures proper alignment and movement, enhancing overall function.
The Importance of Spinal Adjustments Before Extremity Adjustments
Before adjusting extremities, it’s essential to ensure the spine is functioning correctly. A subluxated spine can create tension patterns that affect distant joints. For example, carpal tunnel syndrome, often seen as a wrist issue, can originate from the neck, or knee pain might be due to problems in the hip or ankle.
Our chiropractors use a holistic approach to identify and treat the underlying cause of pain, ensuring comprehensive care and effective relief. By first adjusting the spine, our doctors create a stable foundation, allowing extremity adjustments to be more effective and longer-lasting.
This approach ensures that the root cause of the problem is addressed, not just the symptoms.”
Addressing Hip, Knee, and Ankle Pain with Lower Extremity Adjustments
Extremity adjustments can significantly benefit the lower body. Hip and ankle adjustments often help resolve knee pain by ensuring proper alignment and movement throughout the lower extremity. This approach promotes healing and prevents further injury.
Upper Extremity Adjustments for Relief of Shoulder, Elbow, and Wrist Pain
Similarly, adjustments to the upper extremities, such as the shoulder and wrist, can alleviate elbow pain. By addressing the entire kinetic chain, our chiropractors ensure proper function and reduce strain on affected joints.
Global Mechanical Assessment & Addressing Kinetic Chain Dysfunction
Dr. Robert performs a global mechanical assessment to evaluate the entire body, which involves muscle testing of extremities to identify subluxations in the spine and other areas. By understanding the interconnectedness of the body’s systems, our doctors can provide targeted treatments.
Recognizing how each part of the body influences the whole is crucial, as dysfunction in one part of the kinetic chain can affect the entire system. Subluxations in joints close to the spine, such as the hip or shoulder, can cause issues down the chain. Addressing these subluxations ensures the entire kinetic chain functions properly, promoting overall health.
Move Better & Feel Better, Starting Today
Ready to experience the benefits of extremity adjusting? Contact our Port St Lucie clinic today to schedule your comprehensive evaluation with one of our chiropractors and start your journey toward greater function & pain-free living.
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