Chiropractors are Just Back Crackers...

A nickname you will often hear people call chiropractors is “back cracker.” While it is true we will often adjust the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, most patients that come into the office seek care for...

• extremities 
• ribs 
• shoulders 
• elbows
• wrists
• hips
• knees and 
• ankles 
• and even toes!

What do Chiropractors Specialize in?

Chiropractors are doctors who specialize in neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Breaking this down it means chiropractors specialize in the nervous system, muscular system and skeletal system. This does not only apply to the axial or central spine, but the extremities as well. Common extremity conditions we treat include sprains, strains, capsulitis, nerve impingement, muscular contractures, inflammation and joint dysfunction.

Hiltons Law

What is the significance of getting extremity adjustments? There is a law known as Hilton's Law that explains how the nerves that innervate a joint, also innervate the muscles, soft tissue and the skin surrounding that same joint. Therefor if a joint is dysfunctional and restricted, it will result in more nociceptors (pain sensation) going to the brain from the joint itself, the muscles and skin surrounding the joint! The increase in pain sensation from the joint will also inhibit the muscle activation around that joint resulting in decreased power and stability. So, keeping proper biomechanical movement in all joints is extremely important for pain management and proper locomotion.

The Central Spine is the Power House for Extremities

Back to biomechanical movement, your body works as a whole. For example, if your middle and upper back (thoracic spine) is immobile and restricted, your shoulder blade won't be able to move as well... if your shoulder blade doesn't move well, your shoulder itself will be restricted and not move as well... if your shoulder is restricted, your elbow won't function as well and so on and so forth. This is the case with every part of the body. The main power engine the extremities depend on for proper movement stems from the central spine, meaning the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine (neck, back and low back). Therefor, circling back to the “back cracker” nickname, chiropractors will often adjust various aspects of the back, but for good reason as described above.

If you have a question regarding your extremity pain, and how our doctors can possibly help feel free to give us a call at 406-551-2177 

or reach us online at Gallatinvalleychiropractic.com