According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (AADA), anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting over 18.1% of the population every year. Although anxiety disorders are highly treatable, unfortunately only about 37% of those suffering receive treatment.

At Kaizo Health, we recognize the need to act in treating disorders especially related to anxiety and depression. The consistent annual rise is alarming and we want to make treatment accessible to all. How can a chiropractor help, you ask? Let’s explain.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety can be physically debilitating and have a major impact on the body’s functions. Some people may even experience various conditions that lead to anxiety.

Specific symptoms of anxiety are unique to everyone, but common physical impacts of anxiety include the following:

• • Fatigue or inability to sleep
  • Muscle tension and stiffness
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Aches and pains throughout the body
  • Built up stress in muscles due to inability to relax

Treatment for Anxiety

Physical symptoms of anxiety can be debilitating and further prolong or exacerbate the mental symptoms of anxiety making it harder to manage. However, physical symptoms can be controlled and prevented through the right treatment.

Chiropractic and rehabilitative care serves to prevent pain and eliminate built up tension throughout the body which can be caused by bouts of anxiety.

Benefits of chiropractic care and anxiety include the following:

1. All Natural

Chiropractic care aims to provide a non-invasive treatment that creates balance between the mind and body. The holistic approach used by chiropractors assesses the full body in it’s natural state and provides treatment modalities such as manual therapy, adjustments and rehabilitative exercises that are meant to improve the body’s own ability to heal, mobilize and strengthen itself.

This approach not only impacts the body but allows the brain to also send the appropriate signals for increasing the rate of physical healing. This physical healing gives the mind control over the outcomes of the body. 

Diets and supplements may also be recommended by chiropractors which can positively impact the mind-state as well.

2. Positive Hormonal Impact

When the spine is out of alignment, nerves may be pinched which can inhibit the endocrine system’s ability to regulate hormone levels in the body. After a chiropractic adjustment, studies have shown that the brain triggers hormones such as neurotensin, oxytocin and cortisol which all help to reduce stress, inflammation, and boost feelings of social bonding.

3. Improves Sleep

As mentioned before, insomnia can be a symptom of anxiety or even anxiety medication. Research has shown that chiropractic care with manual therapy improves sleep quality and can decrease sleep-related disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea and jaw clenching or teeth grinding.

4. Relieves tension, stiffness and headaches

Muscle tension can often be a symptom of anxiety. Manual therapy and rehab exercises are especially made to relieve built up stress and tension throughout the body. Particularly, adjustments and manual therapy helps relieve tension headaches which can often be associated with anxiety. Not to mention, chiropractic sessions involve muscle relaxation exercises and treatments that help the body slow down and relax.

5. Lowers Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is often present with stress and anxiety. Research has shown that chiropractic adjustments and manual therapy lower blood pressure. When blood pressure caused by stress is manageable, the feeling of stability increases especially in those with anxiety.

6. Affordability

Chiropractic care is becoming more accessible, more affordable and more widely included in a multitude of insurance plans. This is making it easier for communities to receive the effective and affordable care they deserve without the high costs. Whether preventative or for recovery, chiropractic care is a great alternative to traditional medicine.

Next Steps

In addition to the multitude of physical benefits of chiropractic care and manual therapy, treatment also has a significant positive impact on mental health. At Kaizo Health, you are our priority. That being said, upon an initial assessment, you will receive a treatment plan personalized for your needs. Our goal is to empower our patients to live healthier and happier lives which involves both physical and mental health and happiness. Are you ready to take the next step?