Should chiropractic be a last resort?

The vast majority of people seeking a chiropractor are seeking relief from pain, discomfort, or some other unpleasant symptom.  I've never known a chiropractor who isn't excited when they've helped someone find the relief or resolution of symptoms their patients are seeking.  The before and after comparison and tracking of the results is quite rewarding!  However, the truth is, the pain probably could have been avoided.  

Repetitive stresses can cause micro-tears in the ligaments and discs of the spine that we usually don't feel, allowing a slight instability that allows the misalignments that then get "stuck" out of place.  We all like to think we don't have repetitive stresses, but if we take a realistic look at our daily lives... how much time do we spend with our heads down looking at a cell phone, reading a book, preparing food, or doing schoolwork.  What about sleeping with a pillow propping your head too far forward or the slumped posture we all tend to have on the couch watching our favorite shows?  I could go on all day with the modern stresses (perhaps constant stress is more accurate than repetitive stress?) that lead to misalignments and muscle imbalances.  Remember the saying:  If you don't use it, you lose it?... Misalignments decrease movement (form affects function).  Less movement means less use, and you can begin to see degenerative processes like degenerative disc disease and bone spurs later on.   

So how can Chiropractic care help prevent these micro-tears from becoming disc bulges, bone spurs, or worse, and keep your misalignment from being a quite literal pain the neck or back?...

Chiropractors are trained to identify areas that need a correction before there are symptoms like pain.  A decreased area of movement, among other signs, help point the chiropractor in the right direction.  An adjustment not only improves the form (alignment), but also the function, improving movement and weightbearing so the micro-tears can heal in the right position and you can continue to use it, so you don't lose it!  

And we've only scratched the surface...the function of the spine is not only to allow for distribution of forces and free movement, but also to  protect the nervous system.  Do you think that's just a little important?  It kind of controls everything.  

So go see a chiropractor BEFORE you are in pain!  I think you'll be surprised at how good you'll feel and function!

Side Note.  If you already have pain and degeneration, it's not too late.  It is commonplace to see improvements in disc health and spine function with consistent chiropractic care.