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“Research indicates that minor shifts in the structure of the spine may impact function, suggesting that these structural shifts may be a factor in a number of disorders. Structural shifts may lead to nerve obstruction and could possibly result in a host of health problems such as thyroid dysfunction and gastrointestinal disorders” stated Dr. Matthew McCoy, a chiropractor, public health researcher and editor of the journal that published the study. Other chiropractic researchers have reported on similar results and reviews of the scientific research reveal numerous other studies that have shown a similar connection.
“It makes a lot of sense when you think about it” stated McCoy. “It’s reasonable to suggest that if you obstruct or damage the nerves exiting the spine, the result of the obstruction(s) and/or damage can have far reaching implications on the functioning of the body. Through research reports like this we are finding that correcting these structural shifts reduces nerve obstruction, bringing about marked improvement in people who are experiencing a variety of maladies.”
Ordinarily, people suffering from disorders such as hypothyroidism and irritable bowel syndrome may be given medications to cover up their symptoms but uncovering the cause of the problem is a much better strategy.
The patient reported on in the study was a 34-year-old pregnant female previously diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome and hypothyroidism. She was also experiencing low back, hip, and upper back pain.
She had been suffering from hypothyroidism and irritable bowel syndrome for several years and was taking thyroid medication. Her symptoms included fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, sleepiness, and constipation. She reported being under stress from her job and pregnancy.
The chiropractor examined the woman and found abnormal posture, forward head shift, decreased spinal range of motion, and significant structural shifts in her neck, mid back, low back and pelvis. Testing revealed that the structural shifts were obstructing her nervous system.
After just two months of chiropractic care to reduce the structural shifts in her spine, the patient reported much improvement in all of her complaints including irritable bowel syndrome. Blood tests of her thyroid function were now normal.
According to McCoy, these results suggest a possible link between thyroid function, gastrointestinal disturbances and spinal subluxations. Correcting the subluxations through the use of specific chiropractic adjustments are believed to have returned this woman's function to normal.
The authors call for further research on chiropractic, thyroid function and IBS.
Contact Information:
Matthew McCoy DC, MPH
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research
drmatthewmccoy@gmail.com
