Chest pain, or angina, has many causes, including cardiovascular disorders, such as hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or heart attach (myocardial infarction). However, many cases of chest pain have nothing to do with the heart or arteries. For instance, misaligned vertebrae or ribs that are slightly out of place can spark chest discomfort. Fortunately, chiropractic care may alleviate this type of chest pain.
Studies show that chiropractic is most helpful in easing chest pain caused by dysfunction involving the bones and muscles of the neck or upper back (the cervicothoracic region). The technical term for this type of chest pain is cervicothoracic angina pectoris, or CTA.
There are three major origins of CTA:
- Misaligned vertebrae.
- Misaligned ribs.
- Strained muscles.
When spinal bones (vertebrae) move slightly out of place, the ensuing condition is known as vertebral subluxation. In some cases, this malady triggers chest pain.
Ribs may also slip slightly out of position, becoming subluxated, in turn provoking chest pain. Ribs attach in the front of the body to the “breastbone” or sternum and in the back to spinal vertebrae.
Strain to the muscles in the chest, neck or upper back may also spawn chest pain. This is often the case in whiplash injury.
The good news is that chiropractic care addresses all three of the major causes of CTA. Using gentle and safe maneuvers, called chiropractic adjustments, Dr. Smith restores motion and alignment to subluxated vertebrae and ribs. Scientific studies demonstrate that chiropractic adjustments also quell pain emanating from muscle tension.