Webster's Dictionary defines the word "symptom" as "subjective evidence of disease or physical disturbance" or "something that indicates the existence of something else."

However, modern culture has strayed from this definition, instead regarding symptoms as the first stage of illness.  I am extemely concerned about this common misconception, which results in a "disease-focused" attitude toward healthcare, rather than a "prevention-focused" approach that promotes wellness.

A New Outlook

The traditional "disease-focused" Western methodology of health care teaches that symptoms are the first sign of illness.  I as well as other holistically minded professionals uphold the opposite point of view: symptoms are often the final mark of infirmity.  And a wealth of scientific research supports this revolutionary outlook.  

Following is a sampling of studies confirming that symptoms are delayed in many diseases - and what I'm doing to help prevent these health complaints before the onset of symptoms.

Spinal Dysfunction

Symptoms associated with vertebral subluxations, dysfunctional areas of the spine where movement is restricted or bones (vertebrae) are slightly misaligned, often occur in the disorder's latter stages.

Vertebral subluxations are linked wtih an increased risk of osteoarthritis, back pain, neck pain, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, intestinal problems, headache, asthma and ear infections.  And that's just the tip of the iceberg.  

Ongoing research suggests that vertebral subluxations also inhibit the nervous system.  Nerves exit the spinal cord between vertebral bones; consequently, researchers theorize that dysfunction in the spine may hinder nerve flow to vital organs and structures throughout the body.

Like anything else, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to vertebral subluxations.  That's why Dr. Kruse focuses on preventing spinal disorders before the onset of symptoms.  This is accomplished through regular chiropractic checkups.

Spinal Arthritis & Disc Disease

Research indicates that spinal osteoarthritis is not necessarily associated with symptoms of pain or dysfunction, especially during its early stages.  In addition, spinal disc herniation or degeneration is frequently without symptoms  (Spine 2003;28:582-8)

Doctors of chiropractic ward off spinal osteoarthiritis and disc degeneration by correcting vertebral subluxations, keeping the spine mobile and fostering healthy joint cartilage.

Overuse and Repetitive Motion

Injuries related to overuse or repetitive motion inflict trauma to joints, bones, muscles and connective tissue (ligaments, tendons and fascia).  Tennis elbow, shin splints and pitcher's shoulder are all examples of sports related overuse injuries.  Work related overuse injuries, commonly associated with repetitive strain, include carpal tunnel syndrome, from keyboard use; neck pain, from improper workstation ergonomics; and back pain, from repetative lifting.

It's easy to imagine how trauma to the structures affected by repetative strain accumulates long before the onset of pain.

Focus on Prevention, Not Symptoms

From childhood, most individuals are taught that symptoms of pain or illness are the body's way of telling us it's time to seek help from health-care professionals.  Actually, symptoms are the body's last-ditch attempt to get our attention.  In our frenzied-pace society, we've learned to disconnect from our bodies and ignore the subtle signs they send, indicating the early presence of disease.  We are  encouraged not only to wait until the onset of symptoms but also until those symptoms are so severe we can no longer put up with them.

This chiropractic office challenges patients to shift their way of thinking about symptoms.  Focus on prevention by keeping regular chiropractic wellness checkups.  If you haven't had a chiropractic checkup recently, commit to taking charge of your health and schedule one today - for yourself and everyone else in your family!