Ulcers are a painful and often chronic condition that can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. Some individuals with ulcers seek various medical treatments to alleviate their discomfort, but many are not aware that a Billings chiropractor can also be helpful.
Understanding Ulcers and Their Causes
Before delving into the role of chiropractic care in your healing and health, it’s essential to understand what ulcers are and what causes them. Ulcers are open sores that can form on the mucous membranes of various body parts, most commonly the stomach and the small intestine.
Ulcers can present a range of symptoms, and among the most common is a persistent burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen. This discomfort typically occurs between the breastbone and the navel and can vary in intensity. Some individuals may experience intermittent pain, while others may have a constant ache. Nausea and vomiting can also be associated with ulcers, especially when the stomach lining becomes irritated. Additional symptoms may include heartburn, reduced appetite, unintended weight loss, bloating, and, in more severe instances, dark or bloody stools.
While they can be caused by factors such as infection, smoking, or alcohol consumption, the majority of ulcers are linked to the presence of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
The Chiropractic Approach to Health
Chiropractic care is primarily associated with musculoskeletal issues and spinal adjustments. While it may not directly treat ulcers, it can have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being. Chiropractors focus on the spine and nervous system, believing that proper alignment can enhance the body’s natural ability to heal itself. By addressing subluxations (misalignments) in the spine, chiropractors like Dr. Thomas Keogh aim to remove interference to the nervous system, which controls various bodily functions.
Stress Reduction and the Gut-Brain Connection
One way chiropractic care may indirectly help with ulcers is by reducing stress. Stress can exacerbate ulcer symptoms and may even contribute to their development. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce stress by promoting relaxation and improving the function of the nervous system. Additionally, there is a growing body of research suggesting a connection between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. Chiropractic care may positively influence this axis, potentially benefiting those with ulcers.
Chiropractors often provide holistic healthcare advice, including guidance on nutrition and lifestyle choices. While they won’t prescribe medication for ulcers, they may recommend dietary changes and stress-reduction strategies that can complement traditional medical treatments. A well-rounded approach to health that includes chiropractic care can lead to improved overall wellness.
Considering Bare Chiropractic for Holistic Care
If you’re seeking a holistic chiropractic approach to enhance your well-being and potentially alleviate some of the stress associated with ulcers, Bare Chiropractic may be the right place to start. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Thomas Keogh, can work with you to address musculoskeletal issues, help you achieve better spinal alignment, and provide valuable advice on nutrition and lifestyle changes that may support your journey to better health. Visit us today to get started!
Sources
Mayer, E.A., Nance, K., Chen, S. “The Gut-Brain Axis.” Annual Review of Medicine, 2022 Jan 27; 73: 439-453. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34669431/
McConaghy, J.R, Decker, A., Nair, S. “Peptic Ulcer Disease and H. pylori Infection: Common Questions and Answers.” American Family Physician, 2023 Feb; 107 (2): 165-172. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36791443
