G.I. Disorders
All of the organs in our body are connected to two different nervous
systems. One is called the sympathetic and the other, the
parasympathetic. The nerves of the sympathetic system run from the
lower cervical spine (neck) to the upper lumbar spine (lower back.) The
parasympathetic nerves are found in the middle and upper regions of the
cervical spine and the lower lumbar spine and sacrum (the bone between
the pelvis).
Together, these two nervous systems help to control digestion by
sending signals to the organs (efferent pathways) and returning signals
from the organs (afferent pathways.) If an organ is in trouble, it may
send excessive signals back through the afferent pathways, to the
spine, and up to the brain. This can cause a sensation of discomfort in
either the area near the organ or in one of the pain referral areas
associated with that organ. A well-known organ that refers pain is
gallbladder. People with a history of gallbladder trouble often
complain of felling a colic-like (on-again off-again grabbing) pain
between the shoulder-blades
The connection of a GI problem to your spine comes from the existence
of these two nervous systems through a response known as the
viscerosomatic reflex. Chiropractors believe that the irritation at the
level of the spine that corresponds to the involved organ can cause the
muscles around the vertebra above and below the nerve to become
hyperactive. This increased activity to the muscles is a result of the
shared nerve supply between these muscles and the sympathetic supply to
the organ. If the muscle spasm exerts enough force to create a
subluxation (a misalignment between the vertebrae) or creates enough
congestion to the blood supply, more nerve interference is experienced.
This inhibitory action results in a decreased ability of organ
function.
Conversely, chiropractors also believe that problems with the organs of
digestion may have started because of spinal subluxations. An
interesting study that took place at the Harvard Medical School
demonstrated this theory. Researchers at Harvard discovered that many
people who suffered from Chron’s Disease (A severe bowel
disorder) had marked (sever) subluxations of the second cervical
vertebra. Chiropractors believe that the Vagus nerve (the
parasympathetic nerve supply to every digestive organ in the body) may
be irritated when a severe second cervical subluxation is present.
Although the Vagus nerve is one of the twelve cranial nerves that come
directly from the brain) the Vagus nerve passes closely enough to the
structures between the first and second vertebra that subluxation at
these levels may create enough irritation to the nerve to create
problems with digestion
Chiropractic can also help you if you suffer from a digestive disorder
by reducing your level of stress. Patient’s who
receive
chiropractic care will readily comment on this. Your digestive systems
works best when the mind and body are in a relaxed state and
manipulation, massage, acupressure, and moist heat therapies are just
some of the many ways your chiropractor can help you obtain a healthier
working digestive system.
Many chiropractors also include nutritional consoling as part of their
practices. Your chiropractor may recommend vitamin and
mineral
supplements, digestive aids, healing herbs, or simply recommend a
proper diet with an emphasis on what foods to eat and what foods to
avoid to improve your digestion.
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DISCLAIMER:
Articles posted on this site are for informational purposes only.
Articles are not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment. Users of
this site should consult with their doctors before making any decisions
regarding their health care.
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