Just the other day, a patient raised concerns about receiving chiropractic care while having Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a condition known for hypermobile joints. The good news? Chiropractic care can be beneficial for individuals with hypermobility, and here’s why:
1. Purpose of Chiropractic Adjustments: Contrary to popular belief, the aim of chiropractic adjustments isn’t to loosen joints but rather to restore proper movement and alignment. By addressing misalignments, chiropractors can relieve pressure on the nervous system and enhance overall body function.
2. Spinal Mechanics: During an adjustment, chiropractors apply controlled force to a joint to increase its range of motion. This isn’t about making joints loose; it’s about improving function and reducing nerve irritability. Plus, adjustments target dysfunctional joints, leaving healthy joints untouched.
3. Joint Stability: Joints are supported by muscles, tendons, and ligaments, all of which are addressed in chiropractic care. By enhancing the function of these supporting structures, adjustments can actually improve joint stability, correcting misalignments and preventing uneven wear and tear.
4. Hypermobility Issues: For individuals with hypermobility, chiropractors adjust their approach to focus on stabilizing rather than further loosening joints. This may involve strengthening exercises and techniques to support and stabilize the joints, promoting overall health and function.
It’s essential to recognize that hypermobility doesn’t mean optimal joint health. Even if you’re naturally more flexible, misalignments can still impact your overall well-being. Chiropractic care works to restore alignment and strength, regardless of your joint mobility status.
So, to address the myth head-on: chiropractic care does not inherently make your joints loose. Instead, it’s about restoring proper function and alignment to enhance stability and overall health.
If you have concerns about joint stability or hypermobility, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your chiropractor. They can tailor your treatment plan to best suit your needs, ensuring your joints receive the support and movement they need to thrive.