At Bare Chiropractic, we often discuss the holistic benefits of chiropractic adjustments, which can have an impact on far more than just physical wellness. But one aspect that doesn’t always come to light is the potential impact of spinal health on memory function. Understanding the hidden connection between chiropractic care and memory is important to deciding whether care from a Billings chiropractor could contribute to better cognitive function.
The Spine-Brain Connection
While the spine is technically made up of bones, it is much more complex than just bones: it is also a critical component of the nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. This system is responsible for sending and receiving messages throughout the body. Proper spinal alignment supports the transmission of these messages. When misalignments occur—often referred to as subluxations—they can affect this communication process, potentially affecting various bodily functions, including memory.
Neurological health is a large part of memory and cognitive functions, and it can be enhanced by ensuring that the nervous system is free from interference caused by spinal misalignments. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore this alignment, working toward optimal nervous system function and potentially improving cognitive abilities.
Common Memory Problems
Memory issues can appear in various ways, and some may be more serious than others. Generally, they can fall into one of these categories:
Forgetfulness
Occasional forgetfulness, like misplacing keys or forgetting an appointment, can be frustrating. While many factors contribute to memory lapses, spinal health plays a role as well. Misalignments in the spine can disrupt the nervous system’s ability to send and receive clear signals, including those necessary for memory recall.
Difficulty Concentrating
Concentration is essential for absorbing new information and retrieving it later. If your spine is misaligned, it may affect nerve signal flow, leading to reduced mental clarity and focus. This can result in feeling more easily distracted or struggling with concentration on a particular task.
Fatigue
Excessive tiredness not only affects your physical health, but it also impairs cognitive function. A misaligned spine can strain the body, leading to poor sleep quality and chronic fatigue. This ongoing tiredness can weaken cognitive performance, including memory retention and recall abilities.
How Chiropractic Care Supports Cognitive Function
Regular chiropractic care ensures that your spine remains in alignment, thus supporting the uninterrupted flow of information between your brain and the rest of your body. Maintaining this flow is essential for all aspects of health, including those that govern mental processes like memory and concentration.
At Bare Chiropractic, we take a comprehensive approach to your wellness. By returning the spine to its proper form, we help clear the pathways necessary for your nervous system to work effectively. This not only improves physical coordination and pain relief but may also enhance cognitive functions, including memory.
If you’ve noticed changes in your memory or cognitive functions or if you simply want to maintain your mental acuity as you age, come see the benefits of chiropractic care with Dr. Thomas Keogh. Contact us at Bare Chiropractic today to learn more about how we can support your journey toward a healthier life.
Sources
Heck, N., Dos Santos, M. “Dendritic Spines in Learning and Memory: From First Discoveries to Current Insights.” Advances in Neurobiology, 2023; 34: 311-348. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37962799/
Lelic, D., Niazi, I.K., Holt, K., Jochumsen, M., Dremstrup, K., Yielder, P., Murphy, B., Drewes, A.M., Haavik, H. “Manipulation of Dysfunctional Spinal Joints Affects Sensorimotor Integration in the Prefrontal Cortex: A Brain Source Localization Study.” Neural Plasticity, vol. 2016, Article ID 3704964, 9 pages, 2016. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/np/2016/3704964/
