Exploring the Connection Between Chiropractic Care, Mental Health, and Lumbar Disc Herniations
- Julian Simpson
- Apr 28
- 4 min read
Updated: May 1
Exploring the Connection Between Chiropractic Care, Mental Health, and Lumbar Disc Herniations
Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a significant medical condition that profoundly impacts individuals’ health, work capacity, and overall quality of life.
This condition arises when the soft inner gel of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in the tougher exterior, often leading to nerve compression and a variety of symptoms. The incidence of lumbar disc herniation is notably high, affecting a wide demographic, from young adults to the elderly, and it can lead to chronic pain and disability that hinder daily activities and employment opportunities. The ramifications of LDH extend beyond physical discomfort, as they can significantly alter a person's lifestyle, limiting mobility and independence.
Moreover, low back pain, which is frequently associated with lumbar disc herniation, is linked to various psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety. These psychological conditions can exacerbate the experience of pain, create a cycle of suffering, and ultimately result in poorer treatment outcomes. The interplay between physical pain and mental health is complex, as individuals suffering from chronic pain may find it increasingly challenging to engage in activities that bring joy or fulfilment, leading to feelings of hopelessness and isolation.
A high prevalence of kinesiophobia, or the fear of movement, has been observed in patients with chronic low back pain. This fear can significantly hinder rehabilitation efforts, as it may prevent individuals from participating in prescribed physical activities or therapies that are essential for recovery. Kinesiophobia is thought to play a detrimental role in rehabilitation outcomes, as it can create a barrier to engaging in exercises that promote strength and flexibility, which are vital for improving overall function and reducing pain.
Chiropractic treatment options for low back pain encompass a variety of approaches designed to alleviate symptoms and improve function.
Chiropractic manual therapy is one such method employed to reduce pain and enhance joint and tissue mobility. This therapeutic approach also aims to inhibit sympathetic reflex activity, normalize muscle tone, and dissolve adhesions that can restrict movement. By focusing on the spine and its associated structures, chiropractic care seeks to restore balance and function to the musculoskeletal system.
Chiropractic manual therapy encompasses two distinct applications: manipulation and mobilization. Manipulation involves a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust applied passively to a joint, designed to exceed the physiological range of motion without surpassing anatomical limits. This technique aims to restore proper alignment and function to the spine, potentially alleviating pain and enhancing overall mobility.
Chiropractic adjustments are characterized by their strong thrust, which is intended to create a therapeutic effect on the joint. These adjustments can provide immediate relief from pain and discomfort, promoting a sense of well-being and improved function.
Research has increasingly focused on the effects of manual therapy on low back pain and its influence on psychological factors that contribute to quality of life. This includes examining the impact of manual therapy on kinesiophobia, anxiety, and depression within affected patient populations. Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing comprehensive treatment plans that address both physical and psychological aspects of care.
The results of such research have revealed the following findings:
Through the application of manual therapy, a significant decrease in the pain levels of patients was observed, indicating the effectiveness of this approach in managing low back pain.
Additionally, positive effects on depression were noted, suggesting that addressing physical pain can lead to improvements in mental health.
Moreover, the research indicated positive effects on anxiety, highlighting the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being.
Further, improvements in kinesiophobia were documented, suggesting that reducing fear of movement can enhance rehabilitation outcomes.
How does manual therapy decrease pain? - Chiropractic therapy activates the gate control mechanism, inhibiting the impulse transmission of the thin A-delta and C fibres that carry pain stimuli. This is achieved by stimulating the thick myelinated A-β fibres, which activate the mechanoreceptors in the joints responsible for carrying non-painful sensations, thereby providing relief from pain.
Furthermore- Manual therapy induces stretching of the joint capsule, which activates sensory signals to the spinal cord via proprioceptors located within the capsule and surrounding muscles. This process stimulates the periaqueductal grey matter (PAG) of the midbrain, a crucial area involved in the modulation of pain, further contributing to the overall pain-relieving effects of chiropractic treatment.
For more information about how we can help. Please call Health Wise Chiropractic 03 9467 7889 or book online to see one of our Chiropractors in Sunbury or Melton/Strathtulloh Today!
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Reference
Taşkaya B, Taşkent İ, Çakıllı M, Yılmaz Ö. The Effect of Manual Therapy on Psychological Factors and Quality of Life in Lumbar Disc Herniation Patients: A Single Blinded Randomized Clinical Trial. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2024 Sep 18;21(9):1234. doi: 10.3390/ijerph21091234. PMID: 39338117; PMCID: PMC11432183.
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