Veterans Day, PTSD, and Charlotte Chiropractors
Each Veterans Day, we pause to recognize and honor the bravery, sacrifices, and dedication of the men and women who have served in the military. Their contributions to our freedom and safety are immeasurable.
Sadly, beyond the uniform and their years of service, many veterans continue to face battles, especially those involving mental health and physical well-being. For some veterans, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a part of life after service and significantly impacts their quality of life. In addition to traditional support resources, chiropractic care in Charlotte offers a unique approach to help veterans find relief and balance at home.
PTSD Is Physical, Too
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Veterans who have experienced the intense pressures of combat or other service-related situations often find themselves coping with PTSD, which can affect them both emotionally and physically. Common symptoms include anxiety, hypervigilance, insomnia, and chronic stress. Additionally, veterans with PTSD may experience frequent headaches, muscle tension, and fatigue, often resulting from the body’s chronic stress response.
The mind and body are closely connected, and mental health conditions like PTSD can contribute to persistent physical issues. For instance, stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that, when constantly elevated, can lead to physical discomfort, stiffness, and pain. This cycle can create an ongoing state of physical distress, making daily life challenging for veterans. This is a big area where chiropractic care may offer supportive benefits for veterans with PTSD, helping them better manage physical symptoms so they can focus on overall healing.
Chiropractic Care: A Holistic Approach to Support Veterans’ Health
Chiropractic care focuses on aligning the spine to support the nervous system, which plays a vital role in both mental and physical health. When the spine is well-aligned, it allows for improved communication between the brain and body, which may help reduce the physical effects of chronic stress. Chiropractic adjustments also help release tension in the body, encouraging relaxation and potentially lowering stress levels.
For veterans, the benefits of chiropractic adjustments may extend to improved sleep, reduced muscle tension, and relief from headaches and back pain. By promoting relaxation and balance, chiropractic care can complement other forms of mental health support, offering a well-rounded approach to wellness. Many veterans have found that incorporating chiropractic care into their routines has helped them manage some physical symptoms of PTSD, enhancing their quality of life and supporting their resilience.
Honoring Our Veterans Year-Round
Each year, we are honored to celebrate Veterans Day as a special occasion to honor those who have served, but supporting veterans’ health and wellness is something we can work on year-round. For veterans in Charlotte dealing with PTSD, exploring chiropractic care may be a valuable step toward improved well-being. By focusing on the connection between the spine, nervous system, and overall health, Dr. Grant Lisetor supports veterans in living fuller, more balanced lives.
To all veterans, we thank you for your service and sacrifices. If you or a loved one could benefit from chiropractic care in Charlotte, reach out to learn more about how we can support your health and wellness journey.
Sources
Burdick, R., Corcoran, K.L., Zhao, X., Lisi, A. “The rate of use of Veterans Affairs chiropractic care: a 5-year analysis.” Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 2022 Jan 21; 30 (1):4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35062971/
Coleman, B.C., Corcoran, K.L., DeRycke, E.C., Bastian, L.A., Brandt, C.A., Haskell, S.G., Heapy, A.A., Lisi, A.J. “Factors Associated With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Veterans of Recent Wars Receiving Veterans Affairs Chiropractic Care.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2020 Oct; 43 (8): 753-759. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32534740/
