Do you have spine misalignment in Altoona?Here at the Dawson Chiropractic office, we offer a holistic approach when it comes to our patients. This means we focus on the whole person and not just the parts that are currently giving the patient some pain or discomfort. The spine protects the nervous system and the nervous system controls everything from the immune system to the digestive system. Interestingly, it also affects the hormones and enzymes of the body.

If one of the bones of the body becomes misaligned, it can put pressure on the nerve and not allow the body or the nervous system to work properly. Over time with those misalignments not being corrected you may experience symptoms such as: prone to sickness, stomach issues, low back or neck pain. As your Chiropractor it is my job to find the misaligned bones in the spine, correct them and in doing so, restore your nervous system to 100%.

You may be asking yourself how your spine becomes misaligned in the first place. There are three typical ways this happens:

1. Physical– Perhaps the most obvious of the three, physical trauma can cause the spine to misalign. Major traumas such as childbirth or a car crash are more obvious but there are also smaller more repetitive reasons like sitting at a computer desk all day. Though the major traumas might be the most obvious reasons to come in to our office, it can often be the repetitive reasons that are more important since they often cause chronic neck pain and headaches.
2. Chemical– The phrase, “You are what you eat” is said for a reason! The chemicals in what we eat and drink can cause the spine to misalign as well. That’s why at Dawson Chiropractic, our holistic approach to our patients includes a nutritional plan with proper supplements when necessary. When you start eating better and limiting alcohol and other harmful chemicals, you will feel better and your spine will thank you!
3. Emotional– Stresses throughout the day can cause muscles to tighten up and throw the spine out of alignment. It’s so important to do something every day that relaxes you. A long walk, a warm cup of coffee or some deep breaths can go a long way in keeping your entire body healthy.
   If you have any questions about how you can stay on track to keep your body working at it’s optimal level, bring them up at your next appointment. Together we can make 2015 your healthiest year!