Here are several conditions that can effectively be treated through Gonstead chiropractic care:

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Sciatica and lower back pain

According to studies, around 80% of people experience lower back pain at some point during their lifetime. In most cases, lower back pain is the cumulative effect of poor sitting posture, improper form when lifting, lack of exercise, and various lifestyle-related factors.

A combination of these factors causes stress and slight misalignments of the vertebrae (also known as subluxation), eventually resulting in back pain. Even simple movements such as bending down to retrieve something off the floor can lead to injury – when your spine is already compromised, even a seemingly harmless action can be enough to complicate minor problems. The pain we feel in our backs is due to the surrounding muscles that go into spasm in order to protect the damaged or stressed back tissues.

The Gonstead approach uses specific chiropractic adjustments that effectively restore the spinal bones’ normal position and range of motion. Its success is well-documented and has helped many patients avoid getting risky surgeries.

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Whiplash
Whiplash injuries usually occur in falls or car accidents. This type of injury is caused by the head violently thrusting forwards and backwards, hyperextending and hyperflexing the cervical spine or neck.

The Gonstead approach assists recovery for whiplash injuries by adjusting the neck and spine in order for it to heal properly. Practitioners of the approach also recommend strengthening exercises, massage therapy, and nutritional advice to further enhance and assist recovery.

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Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage of bones and joints degenerate due to processes that cause them to break down. It results in friction between the disc and the vertebrae, leading to strain and loss of motion in the spine’s gliding joints. When these joints are subjected to continued stress such as weakened muscles, exercise, and unavoidable factors like heredity and aging, severe pain can be experienced in the lower back and/or legs. Those suffering from osteoarthritis become more vulnerable to injury, as their spines have limited mobility and flexibility.

Through Gonstead chiropractic methods, the progression of osteoarthritis can be slowed down by using spinal adjustments, strengthening and stretching exercises, and massage therapy. The practice involves natural, drug-free ways that reduce pain and discomfort, improving the quality of life for those with the disease.

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Disc problems
Disc problems are the result of normal wear and tear, injuries, and factors such as aging or genetics. Discs function as shock absorbers between the vertebrae composing the spinal column, and are constantly subjected to the pull of gravity and stress from movement during normal day-to-day activities.

Discs can be compromised by the alignment of the spine – misalignment can force a disc to protrude, herniate, or bulge, reaching the nerves and causing pain and discomfort.

The Gonstead approach is very effective in restoring the spine to its normal range of motion, reducing stress on the discs. The method uses massage therapy and exercises which strengthen the back and the abdominals, promoting stabilization of the core, an effective countermeasure for preventing disc problems.