CHRONIC PAIN AFFECTS YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

Research suggests that the neural regulation of the immune system relies on the sympathetic nervous system, which can be immunosuppressive, and the parasympathetic nervous system, which modulates the immune system through the vagus nerve. Pain triggers a heightened stress response, potentially weakening the immune system by disrupting the balance between the sympathetic (stress) and parasympathetic (healing) nervous systems.

Studies indicate the following effects of chiropractic care on immune health:

1. Poor Mechanical Loading Leads to Cell Death: Under poor mechanical loading conditions, cells prepare for death and increase inflammation. Chiropractic care can address mechanical loading issues. Link to Article

2. Chiropractic Boosts Immune Function: Manipulative therapy, like chiropractic care, has been found to improve immune response. This suggests that chiropractic adjustments can positively impact immune health. Link to Article

3. Neuroimmunomodulation: Spinal manipulative treatment (SMT) reduces inflammatory cytokines and improves immune-regulated responses. SMT can temporarily increase antibody synthesis, and it may influence interleukin-2 immune-regulated biological responses. Link to Article

4. Enhanced Antibody Synthesis: Thoracic manipulation, particularly with cavitation, can increase the synthesis of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies. Chiropractic care can influence interleukin-2 immune-regulated responses. Link to Article

5. Improved T Lymphocyte Response: Chiropractic care may enhance T lymphocyte response to interleukin-2, independent of joint cavitation, suggesting that it can influence immune-regulated biological responses. Link to Article

6. Reduced Inflammation: Chiropractic lower back manipulations can normalize the mediators of inflammation, particularly in individuals with chronic low back pain. Link to Article

7. Boosted sIgA Levels: Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) can increase secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) levels, offering preventive and protective effects, especially in those under high stress or at risk of respiratory tract infections. Link to Article

8. Neuroimmunology Advances: Advances in neuroimmunology, the study of interactions between the nervous and immune systems, contribute to our understanding of immune function. Link to Article

9. Autonomic Nervous System and Immune Interactions: The autonomic nervous system and immune system interact, influencing immune responses. Link to Article

10. Increased Phagocyte Function: Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to enhance phagocyte function, which is crucial for the immune system. Link to Article

Incorporating chiropractic care into healthcare options may help individuals maintain better immune health and improve their overall well-being