Whether you've only recently been diagnosed with Crohn's disease or have managed this condition for years, you may be looking into treatment options that can help you manage your symptoms and enjoy a more active lifestyle. One often overlooked procedure that has demonstrated some benefit to Crohn's sufferers is chiropractic treatment, particularly adjustments to the lower spine and pelvis. Read on to learn more about how chiropractic adjustments can improve the function of your digestive system, as well as how you can determine whether this treatment is right for you.

How can chiropractic treatment help with Crohn's symptoms?

You may associate chiropractic adjustments with the treatment of back or neck pain or other joint problems. However, regular and targeted adjustments have been shown to be effective on a number of autoimmune disorders ranging from psoriasis to allergies. 

Although it's unclear precisely how chiropractic treatment can help manage certain autoimmune conditions, many doctors believe that by "releasing" nerves in the spine from encasement in scar tissue or air pockets, these nerves are then better able to communicate with the body's organs. And because your intestines and lower stomach have millions of nerve fibers that congregate around your lower spine, targeting adjustments to this area can help reduce your Crohn's symptoms relatively quickly.

During your first treatment, the chiropractor will likely spend quite a bit of time on your medical history to gain a full understanding of the type of treatment that will benefit you the most. He or she may also take x-rays of your spine to determine whether there are any spinal issues that require quick attention. 

How do you know whether you're a good candidate for this treatment?

If you're considering seeking this care, you should run your plan by your current physician to ensure that he or she has a complete picture of your treatment regimen. He or she will likely give you the go-ahead and may even have some specific recommendations. 

Although chiropractic treatment is generally safe during pregnancy, this may not be the best time to begin a Crohn's management regimen. You might also want to avoid this treatment if you've recently undergone surgery (unless your surgeon consents), or if you suffer from osteoporosis. Other than that, there are very few physical restrictions on chiropractic treatment, and it is a worthwhile alternative to explore if you're still having trouble balancing your Crohn's symptoms with everyday life. 

Get in touch with a chiropractor, like those at Irondequoit Chiropractic Center, to further explore the possibility of using chiropractic adjustments to manage your Crohn's disease symptoms.