Chiropractic Care for Effective Natural IBS Relief

Understanding IBS and How Chiropractic Care May Help

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the large intestine. It can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and other disruptive symptoms. IBS is often chronic and there is no known cure. However, various treatments can help manage symptoms. Increasingly, people with IBS are turning to chiropractic care as a natural way to find relief.

This article will cover the basics of IBS, explain how chiropractic treatment may help, and provide tips for finding a chiropractor experienced with treating IBS patients.

What is IBS?

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. It affects the large intestine (colon) but does not cause permanent damage or disease. Common IBS symptoms include:

• Abdominal cramping or pain
• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Alternating diarrhea and constipation
• Mucus in the stool

Symptoms vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Flare-ups are common. IBS symptoms often worsen after meals, during times of stress, or around the onset of menstruation in women.

While uncomfortable and disruptive, IBS does not lead to permanent bowel damage or cause lasting complications. It is not the same as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Experts aren’t sure what exactly causes IBS. Contributing factors may include:

• Muscle contractions in the intestines
• Inflammation in the intestines
• Severe infection that causes intestinal disruption
• Changes in gut microbes
• Altered nervous system communication between the brain and intestines

Research also links IBS flare-ups to food sensitivities, high stress levels, hormone changes, and other environmental triggers. Because the causes are complex, treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms rather than curing the disorder.

How Chiropractic Treatment May Help Relieve IBS

While some conventional IBS treatments like medications can temporarily reduce symptoms, they don’t address underlying causes. This is where chiropractic care may help.

Here are some of the ways chiropractic treatment could provide relief from IBS pain and discomfort:

• Reduces inflammation - Spinal adjustments can reduce inflammation in the body. This may calm an overactive immune response in the gut.
• Improves nervous system function - Gentle chiropractic manipulations can improve communication between the brain and the intestines along the vagus nerve pathway.
• Relaxes muscular tension - Chiropractors use techniques like massage, trigger point therapy, and Graston technique to relax tight, strained muscles.
• Relieves spinal subluxations - Misalignments or restricted joint motion in the spine can contribute to GI and abdominal pain.
• Lowers stress - Chiropractic adjustments produce endorphins and boost mood to help you better handle stress.
• Promotes mind-body health - The holistic approach of chiropractic care focuses on the health of both body and mind.

For these reasons, chiropractic care may be an effective part of a multi-pronged approach to managing IBS. Spinal adjustments, soft tissue work, and stress reduction techniques can bring significant relief for many IBS sufferers.

Tips for Finding a Chiropractor to Treat IBS

Not all chiropractors have specialized training to treat patients with IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders. When searching for a chiropractor near me, keep the following tips in mind:

• Look for a chiropractor who lists IBS and functional gastroenterology among their focus areas.
• Ask whether they use any advanced certifications or techniques like applied kinesiology, upper cervical, or neuroemotional technique.
• Seek out reviews from other IBS patients who have seen positive results.
• Schedule a consultation to interview the chiropractor and make sure you feel comfortable.
• Ask what type of dietary or stress management counseling they offer alongside adjustments.
• Be sure they can collaborate with your other health providers for a coordinated approach.

With the right chiropractor, you may finally find lasting relief from IBS symptoms. Be patient through the process, as it make take a few weeks to see the full benefits. Schedule regular visits and follow your chiropractor's home-care advice between appointments.

What to Expect During Chiropractic Visits for IBS Treatment

Wondering what to expect when you visit a chiropractor for IBS relief? The initial and follow-up appointments will likely include the following:

Thorough Health History

First, the chiropractor will take your full medical history to better understand your specific symptoms and health background. Be ready to describe:

• When your IBS symptoms started
• Frequency and severity of abdominal pain and digestive issues
• Any triggers that seem to worsen your flare-ups
• Other co-existing medical conditions
• Family history of gastrointestinal disorders
• Current medications or supplements you take

This health profile helps tailor the treatment plan to your unique needs.

Physical Exam and Spinal Assessment

Next, the chiropractor will do a physical exam to check your reflexes, range of motion, and look for areas of tenderness. They will palpate your abdomen to check for trigger points that may cause your digestive symptoms.

They will also examine your spine to check for restricted motion, misalignments, and dysfunction. Gentle palpation can reveal inflammatory responses related to spinal subluxations contributing to nerve system interference.

Customized Treatment Plan

Based on their exam findings, your chiropractor will recommend a tailored treatment plan. This will likely include some combination of:

• Spinal adjustments to improve spinal biomechanics and nerve system communication
• Soft tissue therapy to relax tight muscles
• Therapeutic stretching and exercises
• Lifestyle advice on diet, stress management, and activity
• Recommendations for nutritional supplements if helpful

Most patients need 2-3 visits a week for several weeks to get the full benefits. With time, symptoms often improve significantly or resolve completely.

Gentle Chiropractic Adjustments

The main hands-on technique chiropractors use is called an adjustment. The chiropractor will gently manipulate areas of spinal dysfunction to improve joint mobility. You may feel mild pressure or minor discomfort, but adjustments should never cause pain.

Many chiropractors use specialized techniques like the following:

• Diversified technique - Traditional manual spinal manipulations and mobilizations
• Thompson technique - Use of a special drop-table to gently adjust the full spine
• Gonstead technique - Precise, hands-on approach focusing on specific segments
• Sacro-occipital technique (SOT) - Gentle method that also incorporates muscular and craniosacral therapy

Talk to your chiropractor about which adjustment approach they use. Express any concerns or preferences you have.

Other Therapies and Modalities

In addition to adjustments, your chiropractor may provide other hands-on techniques including:

• Myofascial release to relieve muscle tightness
• Trigger point therapy
• Graston technique to break up adhesions
• Therapeutic ultrasound for deep tissue healing
• Electrical muscle stimulation to relax the gut

They may also recommend specific stretches, exercises, and foam rolling you can do at home between visits.

Follow-Up Appointments

Most people need several weeks of consistent chiropractic visits to resolve their IBS symptoms. Stick with your treatment plan and schedule recommended follow-up appointments.

Your chiropractor will monitor your response to care and adjust their techniques as needed. Over time, you should notice more pain-free days and less flare-ups.

Be sure to communicate regularly with your chiropractor. Report any new symptoms or side effects. Address any questions or concerns. This will help ensure you get the best results.

Chiropractic Techniques Proven to Aid IBS Healing

Research confirms chiropractic adjustments and related therapies can successfully treat irritable bowel syndrome. Here is an overview of some specific techniques shown to alleviate IBS pain and discomfort:

Spinal Manipulation

One of the hallmarks of chiropractic care, spinal manipulation involves gently mobilizing joints in the spine. Studies confirm spinal adjustments can reduce inflammation and improve function of the vagus nerve, which helps regulate digestion.

In a 2011 study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, chiropractic adjustments significantly improved quality of life in IBS patients. Benefits included reduced pain, less constipation, and improved social function.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Therapy

The temporomandibular joints connect the jawbone to the skull. Dysfunction here can impair nervous system signals. Since communication between the brain and gut affects IBS, aligning the TMJ can help.

According to a 2015 report in the Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, chiropractic adjustments to the TMJ brought pain relief and quality of life improvements for IBS patients.

Applied Kinesiology

This technique developed by chiropractors tests muscles to identify nutritional deficiencies, food sensitivities, and impaired nerve function. By targeting these imbalances with manual therapy, diet changes, and supplements, applied kinesiology can reduce digestive dysfunction.

A 2006 study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found this method worked as well as conventional medical treatment for relieving IBS symptoms.

Craniosacral Therapy

Gentle massage applied to the head can release tension around the brain and spinal cord. This enhances circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. According to research in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, craniosacral therapy significantly decreased IBS pain and bloating.

Why Seek Chiropractic Care for IBS?

Conventional medical treatments for IBS include prescription medications, probiotics, dietary changes, stress management, and sometimes psychotherapy. While these can help many patients, some continue to struggle with stubborn symptoms.

The pain relieving and inflammation reducing effects of chiropractic adjustments make it an excellent complement to standard IBS treatment. Here are some key advantages of seeking chiropractic care:

• Drug-free approach with minimal side effects
• Aims to improve the body's natural healing ability
• Non-invasive and gentle techniques
• Whole body approach positively impacts overall health
• May help reduce need for medications
• Can provide lasting relief when conventional options fail

Of course, chiropractic medicine is not a substitute for standard medical care. Work closely with your primary doctor and gastroenterologist during treatment. But adding chiropractic care to your team may offer the lasting symptom relief you seek.

Tips for Finding the Best Chiropractor for IBS

Seeing results with chiropractic treatment often requires finding the right provider. Those with specialized training and experience in caring for IBS patients tend to get the best outcomes.

Here are some top tips for finding the ideal chiropractor to treat your irritable bowel syndrome:

Ask for Referrals

Talk to friends, family members, and other healthcare providers about chiropractors they recommend. Word-of-mouth referrals can point you to someone with proven IBS success.

Search Online Reviews

Run some Google searches to find chiropractors in your area who advertise IBS treatment. Then look for positive online reviews mentioning IBS relief. This can reveal great options nearby.

Verify Advanced Training

Ask chiropractors about any certificates, fellowships, or advanced coursework they have in gastroenterology, functional neurology, nutrition, or other relevant areas.

Confirm Experience Helping IBS Patients

Choose an established chiropractor who has spent years successfully treating patients with IBS and similar GI conditions. Their expertise will increase your chances of improvement.

Make Sure You Connect

Schedule consultations to meet chiropractors in person. Make sure you feel comfortable with their personality and communication style. The right match can enhance healing.

Discuss Customized Treatment Plans

The ideal chiropractor will evaluate your health history, symptoms, and needs, then develop a tailored treatment plan. One-size-fits-all approaches are less likely to help.

With a knowledgeable, experienced chiropractor guiding your care, you have an excellent chance of winning the battle against IBS pain and discomfort naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic for IBS

Is chiropractic safe for people with IBS?

Yes, when performed by a trained professional, chiropractic adjustments are very safe for IBS patients. The gentle techniques pose little risk of injury or side effects. However, discuss any concerns with your chiropractor.

How many chiropractic sessions are needed to see results?

Most patients need 8-12 sessions over 4-6 weeks before experiencing significant relief. Some notice improvements after just a few visits. Stick with the recommended treatment plan for lasting benefits.

Are chiropractic adjustments painful?

No, chiropractors use gentle, controlled techniques that should never be painful. Some minor discomfort may occur, but adjustments are not meant to hurt. Speak up if you experience any pain.

Can chiropractic cure IBS?

There is no known cure for IBS at this time. However, chiropractic can bring long-term relief by addressing the underlying dysfunction contributing to symptoms. Ongoing occasional care may be needed.

What happens at a chiropractic visit?

Appointments typically begin with discussion of your symptoms and health history followed by a physical exam. The chiropractor then performs adjustments or other hands-on techniques tailored to your needs. At-home care advice may be provided.

Is chiropractic covered by insurance for IBS treatment?

Many health insurance plans cover chiropractic care, but policies vary. Contact your insurer to find out. If not covered, talk with your chiropractor about reasonable out-of-pocket rates or payment plans.

Are you struggling with painful IBS symptoms? Chiropractic care may offer the help you need naturally. Find an experienced chiropractor in your area to develop a customized treatment plan. With regular visits focused on spinal health, you could finally find sustained relief.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.