The thyroid is an incredibly important gland in the body. It is shaped like a butterfly and located at the front of the neck. This small gland is responsible for controlling the way that your body uses energy through the creation of thyroid hormones. Thyroid dysfunction most commonly affects women, and it can cause a number of problems. The two main types of thyroid problems are hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid, and hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid. If you’ve been diagnosed with either of these thyroid conditions or you simply suspect a thyroid problem, set up an appointment to visit Dr. Jeff Vitenas at Enlightened Chiropractic in Metairie, located northwest of New Orleans.
Symptoms and Effects of Thyroid Conditions
One of the most common symptoms associated with any thyroid problem is swelling of the thyroid gland itself. While swelling of the neck could be related to something else, it should definitely be checked out either way. Significant changes in your heart rate can also indicate a thyroid problem. Those with hypothyroidism may experience a slower heart rate, along with fatigue and a feeling of sluggishness. Those with hyperthyroidism often experience a faster heart rate than normal, along with increased anxiety, heart palpitations, and an increase in blood pressure. Significant changes in energy, mood, and weight can also be linked to thyroid dysfunction. Hair loss and irregular body temperatures are common with both hypo- and hyperthyroidism. Constipation, numbness and/or tingling in the hands, dry skin, and brittle nails are typical of those with hypothyroidism, while hyperthyroidism symptoms include muscle weakness, diarrhea, and vision problems.
How Can Chiropractic Help with Thyroid Dysfunction?
Thyroid problems can cause a slew of other health concerns, and they can stem from either improper production of thyroid hormones or improper use of thyroid hormones by other systems of the body. Either way, chiropractic care has proven to be effective in treating thyroid dysfunction. The thyroid gland is located right between the lowest cervical vertebra (C5) and the highest thoracic vertebra (T1). The nerves that control the thyroid gland travel directly into and through the spinal cord, and these nerves are responsible for sending and receiving messages between the brain, the thyroid, and the rest of the body. If a vertebra near the thyroid is misaligned or twisted even the slightest bit, it can hinder the communication pathways that are necessary for proper thyroid function. When you visit a New Orleans chiropractic like Dr. Vitenas, your vertebrae will be realigned and your body will no longer have a communication hindrance in the nerves that travel through the spine.
A study published in 2017 explored the connection between hypothyroidism, irritable bowel syndrome, and spinal health. A 34-year-old female saw significant improvement in her thyroid function and IBS after just 2 months of chiropractic care. She was able to discontinue her thyroid medication completely after a thyroid function test confirmed resolution of hypothyroidism. Another study from 2018 saw a 50-year-old man reduce his need for synthetic thyroid medication due to chiropractic care.
New Orleans chiropractor Dr. Vitenas would love the opportunity to teach you more about chiropractic care and how it can help you improve your thyroid function as well as your overall health and wellness. Give him a call at Enlightened Chiropractic today
Sources
Campbell, A., Delander, K. “Resolution of Hypothyroidism & Irritable Bowel Syndrome in a 34-Year-Old Female Following Chiropractic Care to Reduce Vertebral Subluxation: A Case Study & Review of the Literature.” Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2017, October: 209-220. http://www.torquerelease.com.au/AVSR-Campbell-Delander.pdf.
Fuller, D., Douts, B. “Improved Thyroid Function Following Chiropractic Care to Reduce Vertebral Subluxation: A Case Study & Review of the Literature.” Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2018 March: 57-67. https://www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2018/03/19/improved-thyroid-function-following-chiropractic-care-to-reduce-vertebral-subluxation-a-case-study-review-of-the-literature/.
