For 26 years, I with the help of my partner Dr. Eric Valins, have been helping people get healthy from the inside out thru Chiropractic care. In the past year, our patients have been hearing us say even more emphatically than ever that Chiropractic care will help fight stress affecting our bodies with chiropractic adjustments. Many of them leave not understanding the science behind it. I have decided to explain how the body can help fight the symptoms of disease, even the Coronavirus.
Let's begin by understanding that worrying about getting the disease will only add stress on the body and mind. Look around at people. They are more stressed than ever. Where does thinking constantly about it, or talking to everyone about it help? The Coronavirus is the problem, I get it…ok? Wouldn’t it make more sense to work on the solution in the event you do get it. Chances are even with the Immunization you can STILL get it. Not to say you should not get the shot, but there are things that can help you if and when you get it. Spend more time on the solution rather the problem!
The Coronavirus reports in the news tend to focus on the tragedies, sickness and deaths which in all is terrible to go through. There are some positive, mostly overlooked, facts as well. The Coronavirus, is a common virus that causes an infection in the sinuses, nose and upper throat. Not all strains of this virus cause death. We understand that people that get the virus are usually plagued with coughs, fever and respiratory problems. Some even get pneumonia. Those who get serious symptoms usually have underlying health issues, some don't even know about because they believe they are healthy. Everyone has heard stories of people who work out, eat well, have positive attitude, and then drop dead for no apparent reason. There is always a reason, even if we are not aware of it. Antibiotics do not work on viral attacks on the immune system, they only work if its bacteria. Ultimately the best weapon for the coronavirus and flu is to build a strong, proactive immune system.
Red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the cells work hard to heal and defend the body from foreign invaders. They cause the body to begin to adapt and respond naturally without your conscious thought. This whole processes of adaption and response operates within the central nervous system. And guess where your CNS (central nervous system) is? Yes, in the spine.
There is much medical research about the connection between the CNS and the immune system. Chiropractic care plays the main role because of the spine's relationship with the immune system. Research has shown that when the spine remains misaligned and immobile, the body is highly stressed. Operating daily under consistent high stress will weaken the immune system. A Chiropractic adjustment will help the nervous system function at its ultimate capacity to heal and repair. It will improve movement, alignment and help reduce stress. There is much evidence that shows that people who are under Chiropractic care and receive regular adjustments, not only for acute care (when they have symptoms resulting in pain or discomfort), have stronger immune systems.
Research written in a Chiropractic and Osteopathy paper in September 2010 indicated that patients under Chiropractic care showed an increase of a specific molecule, Interleukin-2. This molecule regulates the white blood cells which are responsible for your immune system. It's the body’s natural response to infection and helps neutralizes foreign invaders. This protein molecule was found in higher amounts in those receiving Chiropractic spinal adjustments compared to those who didn't.
Chiropractic adjustments do not focus on treating specific symptoms or conditions. These adjustments help increase the function of the nervous system. The outcome is the removal of interference in the spine. The focus is not on changing the environment to suit the weakened body, but to strengthening the body to suit the environment.
This is not to say that those under Chiropractic care will not get the Coronavirus or any other disease. What I am saying is that with regular chiropractic care, you have a better chance of fighting it. Other ways to improve your immune system along with Chiropractic is to take vitamin D, a real immune booster. Also sleeping 7-8 hours will help immensely, since healing and repair is mostly done at rest. Removing sugar and artificial sweeteners is a must. Drinking water to cleanse your body will help indeed and of course, my favorite, EXERCISE. Moving your body will increase lymphatic flow benefiting the immune response.
I hope this has helped everyone relax a bit. Worrying about diseases will not help in any way. In fact, worry increases stress, will degrade your quality of life, and potentially bring on other problems. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment for Chiropractic care or a free Health and Wellness consultation, feel free to call my office, 631-979-8508. We have one body. Take care of it and it will take care of you. Stay strong, stay positive and remember to LIVLIFE.
Dr. Livia Valle, Mom, Chiropractor & Health and Wellness Coach.