Chiropractic and Aerobic Fitness

We think mostly of chiropractic treatment in terms of lower back pain, neck pain, and headaches. In fact, there are numerous additional wide-ranging benefits to chiropractic health care. Many of these benefits are related to getting more out of our exercise activities.

For example, aerobic exercise improves cardiovascular function.1,2 As a result, during periods of rest the heart rate is slowed and the ability of the lungs to take in air (vital capacity) is increased. A slower heart rate means the heart is working more efficiently. Likewise, increased vital capacity means the lungs are working more efficiently. Fewer heart beats per minute and fewer breaths per minute result in reduced "wear and tear" on these critical systems. Aerobic exercise makes us healthier.

When we have stress, our muscles get tight. Sometimes this tightness is prolonged, and the normal mobility of our bones and joints is compromised. Reduced mobility of the spinal column creates a spiraling effect of tight muscles, tight ligaments, and further loss of mobility in the neck, middle back, and lower back. We experience pain in these areas as a result.3

These patterns may persist. We all know people who have frequent neck pain or lower back pain. These patterns of pain and limited mobility may result in changes to the normal curves of the spine. Normal curves may become flattened, and these changes result in further discomfort, muscular tension, and pain.

Importantly, loss of the normal spinal curvature in the neck and middle back may place additional stress on the heart and lungs. The actual physical space in which these organs function may become reduced. Maximum function may be compromised and efficiency is lost. Brisk walking used to be easy. Climbing stairs used to be no problem. Now these normal daily activities may leave you out-of-breath. You're huffing-and-puffing and don't know what's happened.

You begin doing aerobic exercises to try to improve cardiovascular function. But the potential benefits are limited by these underlying muscle, ligament, and joint problems. You spend a lot of time exercising but don't seem to be making any improvements.

Chiropractic health care may be able to restore more normal functioning. Chiropractic treatment restores mobility to spinal joints. The gentle treatment relieves stress on the spinal muscles and ligaments, which in turn improves spinal range of motion. Muscle tightness eases, pain and stiffness are reduced, and you become more flexible.

In addition, this improved flexibility allows your chest and rib cage to expand much more fully when you breathe. Your heart and lungs have more room to function, and you can now actually begin to receive the full benefits of your aerobic exercise.

Chiropractic care helps you get fit and stay fit!

1Pivarnik JM, et al. Effects of maternal aerobic fitness on cardiovascular responses to exercise. Med Sci Sports Exerc 25(9):993-998, 1993.
2Jackson EM, Dishman RK. Hemodynamic responses to stress among blackk women: fitness and parental hypertension. Med Sci Sports Exerc 34)7):1097-1104, 2002
3Petrella RJ, et al. Can primary care doctors prescribe exercise to improve fitness? Am J Prev Med 24(4):316-322, 2003

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After Hours call (715) 824-2040

Plover Office

Monday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

1:30 pm-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

1:30 pm-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

1:30 pm-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

1:30 pm-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

1:30 pm-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

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Testimonials

Reviews By Our Satisfied Patients

  • "Powers Chiropractic offers friendly service in addition to more comprehensive adjustments than a traditional chiropractic establishment. The results are noticeable and often quickly felt after a visit or two. Definitely a business worth trying!"
    PB
  • "My daughter is 15 years old. She is in volleyball; she is very active. She runs and jumps on the trampoline. She is in volleyball and an active Sports person. I brought her to Dr. Powers because her spine is curved somewhat, she has bad knees, and flat feet. Since she has been coming here, she is also learning a lot and he is very thorough with her and explains how this goes with that, and that's why this is occurring. She really likes him, and we will keep coming here for future appointments as it helps her a lot.Keep up the great work.YMI enjoy coming here. Dr Powers is very comprehensive and explains everything, and I learn so much when I come here for my appointments. My back, neck, arm, groin, and ankle were in so much pain and thanks to him and his assistant it is getting better. I wish he was able to be my primary doctor and I will continue to keep coming to Future appointments so I continue to feel better. Thank you guys! Dr Powers and Terri... You are amazing!!"
    BM
  • "does a good job. very nice person"
    Brittany H.
  • "I was in a car accident in November that left me with back and shoulder pain. After going to see Dr. Powers I felt so much better, I could feel the difference before walking out of my appointments. He tailors his treatment for what works best for you and gives you great tips and advice to help you heal. I would recommend him to anybody!"
    Amanda M.