Itchy Eyes, Inflamed sinus? Spring Allergies Must Be Here
Spring brings longer days, warmer weather and for many people, a surge in sneezing, congestion, and fatigue. Seasonal allergies, often referred to as allergic rhinitis, are triggered by airborne pollen from trees, grasses, and flowers. While most people think of allergies as purely an immune system issue, they can also impact musculoskeletal health.
When your body is under stress from allergens, inflammation increases. This can lead to sinus pressure, headaches, and muscle tension, particularly in the neck and upper back. Poor posture, especially common for those working indoors during high pollen days, can further restrict proper sinus drainage and breathing. Chiropractic adjustments aim to improve spinal alignment, which supports optimal nervous system function. Your nervous system controls and coordinates every function in your body, including immune responses. The spine protects the spinal cord, which acts as the main communication pathway between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spine is misaligned often referred to as a “subluxation” it may interfere with this communication. Our focus is restoring proper alignment through adjustments to free up nerves. The idea of “freeing up nerves” centers on reducing irritation or restriction along the spine. When spinal joints are not moving properly, surrounding muscles can tighten, and inflammation may increase. This can potentially affect nearby nerves and contribute to tension in areas like the neck, shoulders, and upper back regions closely linked to sinus drainage and breathing mechanics. By improving joint mobility and reducing tension, chiropractic adjustments may help the body operate more efficiently during allergy season.
While chiropractic care is not a cure for allergies, it can be a valuable part of a holistic approach to managing symptoms. By reducing tension, supporting the nervous system, and improving body mechanics, chiropractic treatments may help you breathe easier and feel more energized throughout the spring season.
Citations:
Teodorczyk-Injeyan, J. A., Injeyan, H. S., & Ruegg, R. (2006). Spinal manipulative therapy reduces inflammatory cytokines but not substance P production in normal subjects. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 29(1), 14–21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2005.11.002
Gleberzon, B. J., Stuber, K. J., & Evans, R. (2006). A narrative review of the effects of spinal manipulation on the immune and endocrine systems. Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 14(1), 15. https://doi.org/10.1186/1746-1340-14-15
