Without the daily restoration that takes place during sleep, life takes on a raw edge – a feeling that millions know all too well. Chiropractic, in combination with complementary and alternative therapies, may be proven effective in diagnosing sleep disorders and delivering treatments that offer the promise of a better night’s sleep.

“Sleep disorders are prevalent and often disabling, but most are diagnosable and effectively treatable using chiropractic applications,” says Frederick R. Carrick, DC, PhD, DACAN, DABCN, DACNB, FACCN, and president of the ACA Council on Neurology. “Sleep is one of the most important functions of the brain. The ability of the nervous system to regulate sensory input is considered a prerequisite to sleep. Specific areas of the brain change in their function to prevent transmission of sensory information that might keep us awake. Patients suffering from pain or other sensory conditions that contribute to a continual activation of the brain may have difficulty sleeping.”

Chiropractors evaluate sleep complaints with a meticulous sleep history and physical examination with particular attention to the neurological, cardiopulmonary, and psychological functions.

“Chiropractors are very experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders associated with a variety of conditions that contribute to them. Many patients do not tell their doctors that they suffer from sleep disorders, but it is very common for patients to sleep much better after being treated for a variety of conditions not usually associated with sleep deprivation. Chiropractic treatment in general is a good alternative for those individuals who do not feel rested and who do not wish to take prescription drugs to assist them in obtaining quality sleep.”

Manipulation may improve chest wall mechanics, so that people breathe better for improved oxygenation. It may also help people with spasms and pain and joint dysfunction of the neck, shoulders, and back by decreasing pain and restlessness while increasing spinal cord reflexes that improve blood flow.

Regards,

Dr Sarah MacNeil

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