Single Chiropractic Session Helps Stroke Victims
By Chris Brown
As of 2019, an estimated 17 million people worldwide experienced a significant stroke incident annually. Because strokes are causing fewer and fewer fatalities (stroke mortality rates lowered by 21 percent from 1990 to 2010), an increasing number of sufferers end up living with stroke-related disabilities. For such stroke survivors, research is finding that even a single session of chiropractic may be able to restore some functionality.
The Disabilities of Strokes
Strokes occur when a clot blocks one of the brain's small blood vessels, causing a part of the brain to damage or die from lack of blood flow. Since strokes impact the brain, a wide range of problems can result for survivors. Everything from complete paralysis to cognitive difficulties to motor function disabilities can result, depending upon the location and severity of the stroke. Two of the most common side effects are motor function problems and muscle strength loss. Regaining these lost abilities is crucial for improving life quality of stroke survivors.
Stroke Survivors Regain Motor Control From Short-Term Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic's spinal manipulation has shown itself as an efficacious treatment for improving functionality following a stroke. One study found that just four weeks of chiropractic care, plus physical therapy, caused statistically measurable improvements in motor function over physical therapy alone. And, in a second 2021 study, cervical mobilization improved diaphragmatic breathing and pulmonary function in patients with post-stroke forward neck posture. This allowed victims to regain their breath without the assistance of oxygen tanks. More amazing still is a study that found a single session of chiropractic measurably improved stroke victims' ability to walk.
Single Chiropractic Session Improves Post-Stroke Strength
For a group of stroke survivors with plantar flexor muscular weakness (which limits the foot muscles' ability to stand or walk), just one session of chiropractic manipulation caused significant strength improvements and cortical drive output. In this 2019 study conducted by a multinational team of researchers and doctors, cortical drive brain output (the neural driver of bodily movement), H-reflexes (a sensitivity test of nerve conduction), and strength output were measured for patients following a chiropractic session. The team found improvements in both plantar flexor muscle strength and cortical output of neurologic signals from the brain. The incredible aspect of these results is that the changes occurred after only one session of treatment. While further research is required to study the true long-term potential of chiropractic on regenerating lost abilities of stroke victims, these initial findings provide a positive indication of its capability.
If you or a loved one has suffered from a stroke, and is experiencing disabilities as a result, even a single chiropractic adjustment at The Joint Chiropractic may be able to help. While The Joint's cost-effective memberships offer a spectacular deal for regular visits, that can restore even more functionality over time, its individual sessions are always affordable, without insurance. The Joint offers walk-in adjustments, so that the inconvenience of making an appointment never causes added stress. So stop by The Joint today to experience the amazing power of spinal manipulation.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Coral Springs, Fla.