One of the biggest myths in the Chiropractic industry is the viewpoint that we only help address back and neck pain. Here at the Specific, we see incredible results with chronic issues. Chiropractors deal with the nervous system, which is typically the root of chronic diseases. Not only are these issues prevalent and growing, but there also are not many options for non-invasive treatment, which makes chiropractic care a great option. According to the International Chiropractic Association, a chiropractic adjustment could help manage adolescent nocturnal enuresis or as it is more commonly known bedwetting.
What exactly causes bedwetting in adolescence?
Due to an infant's and child’s slow respiration, carbon dioxide in the body rises which triggers the phrenic reflex stimulating the diaphragm to release. Since the diaphragm is the body’s main breathing muscle if the reflex is not functioning properly because of a higher concentration of carbon dioxide the control of the urinary bladder is compromised due to the bladder being a smooth muscle. Once the bladder relaxes, a child will wet the bed. Nocturnal enuresis deals with miscommunication in a child's body. Now, this is perfectly normal in children, once they hit a certain age, the body has better control and communication. Unfortunately, frequent and ongoing bedwetting may be a sign of a bigger issue.
Where does this miscommunication start?
This type of miscommunication starts with the Phrenic Nerve, which is located near the cervical vertebrae. Upper cervical chiropractic adjustments specifically focus on bringing proper nervous system function and communication back to the body by removing a subluxation. Receiving a chiropractic adjustment realigns the spinal vertebrae. This process removes the stress caused by carbon dioxide build-up from the phrenic nerve, allowing the organs to function properly. A study published by the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics (Elsevier Inc., 2005) concluded that chiropractic adjustments positively affected a quarter of the 171 children in the study by reducing their bedwetting by 50%!
Now the idea of adjusting a spine, especially in a child does sound like a scary and dangerous type of treatment. Especially when spinal subluxation and pain are generally thought of together. Misalignments affect the nervous system which can cause numerous chronic issues and not just pain or discomfort in the body. The truth is Chiropractic adjustments are a safe, natural, and non-invasive form of healing and treatment. Since a child’s body is still growing, their bodies respond better and quicker to our treatments. This kind of misalignment is small and easily corrected which will ensure proper spinal health and alignment which will bring healthy function to a child.
We know how stressful Nocturnal Enuresis can be for parents and the child experiencing the problem. If your child or someone you know is suffering from severe bedwetting, we can help reduce the occurrence and may be able to remove the issue entirely.
Dr. Alexa Chilian is a dedicated upper cervical chiropractor. She focuses on the function of the nervous system and helps with ailments ranging from headaches, low back pain and neurological developmental disorders. Click here more information on upper cervical chiropractic care.
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