Immunity and The Chiropractic Approach

What Is the Immune System?

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that protects the body from harmful bacteria, viruses, and other invaders. It also helps to identify and eliminate abnormal cells, such as cancer cells. The immune system is divided into two categories: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system.

Innate immune system

The innate immune system is the body’s first line of defense against pathogens. It includes physical barriers, such as the skin and mucous membranes, as well as cells that can attack and destroy pathogens directly.

Adaptive immune system

The adaptive immune system is a more specialized defense mechanism. It produces specific antibodies that target particular pathogens, and it “remembers” encounters with pathogens so that it can respond more efficiently in the future.

How Does Chiropractic Care Affect the Immune System?

There are several theories about how chiropractic care may affect the immune system. One theory is that misalignments or restrictions in the spine (known as subluxations) can interfere with nerve signals that control immune function. By correcting these subluxations, chiropractic adjustments may improve nerve communication and enhance immune function.

Chiropractic research and Immune system

There’s also some evidence that chiropractic adjustments can increase the production of antibodies and other immune system cells. For example, one study found that patients who received chiropractic care had higher levels of natural killer cells, which are immune cells that can attack cancer cells and viruses.

However, there is still much debate among researchers about the relationship between chiropractic care and the immune system. While some studies have suggested a positive link, others have found no clear evidence of any effect. More research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind this potential relationship.

Immunity and chiropractic; it’s all about movement!

It’s important to note that while chiropractic care may help support the immune system, it’s not a “cure-all” for immune system disorders or other health issues. Different factors can affect your immune system health, such as diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits. Chiropractic care is just one piece of the puzzle.

Overall, there’s some evidence to suggest that chiropractic care may have some positive impacts on immune system function. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the mechanisms behind them. If you’re considering chiropractic care for immune system support or any other reason, it’s essential to work with a licensed chiropractor who can tailor a treatment plan to your individual needs.

Make An Appointment 

Are you feeling sluggish or run down lately? It might be time to give your immune system a boost! New Life Family Chiropractic Center specializes in all aspects of health and wellness, and we’re excited to offer you an immunity-boosting appointment.

Our experienced team of chiropractors is dedicated to providing you with personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or acute injuries, we’re here to help.

References:

1. Teodorczyk-Injeyan JA, McGregor M, Ruegg R, Injeyan HS. Interleukin 2-regulated in vitro antibody production following a single spinal manipulative treatment in normal subjects. Chiropr Osteopat. 2010;18:26.
2. Gay CW, Robinson ME, George SZ, Perlstein WM, Bishop MD. Immediate changes after manual therapy in resting-state functional connectivity as measured by functional magnetic resonance imaging in participants with induced low back pain. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2014;37(9):614-27.
3. Martinez-Segura R, Fernandez-de-Las-Penas C, Ruiz-Saez M, Lopez-Jimenez C, Rodriguez-Blanco C. Immediate effects of upper cervical translatoric mobilization on cervical mobility and pressure pain threshold in patients with cervicogenic headache: a randomized controlled trial. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2009;32(2):101-6.
4. Morningstar MW, Strauchman MN, Weeks DA. Chiropractic care of a patient with major depressive disorder, chronic anxiety, and multiple chemical sensitivity. J Chiropr Med. 2011;10(3):204-9.
5. Wang MY, Ponomareva-Albovski Y, Kuhn F, et al. Changes in cerebral blood flow after manipulation of the cervical spine in healthy subjects. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2010;33(5):361-7
6. Sheridan, C. (2014). Chiropractic and the immune system. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 22(1), 24. doi: 10.1186/s12998-014-0024-5