Chiropractic Care For Mental Health

At Thame Chiropractic Clinic, we’ve always known that chiropractic care is about more than easing aches and pains, it’s about supporting your overall health and well being. And now, growing research is beginning to explain why so many of our patients leave not only moving better, but feeling better too.

A recent US survey of almost 35,000 people found that nearly 70% reported improved overall health after receiving chiropractic care. Even more encouraging, over 40% said it helped them sleep better, feel more relaxed, and reduce stress. These findings are especially important in today’s world, where mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression are affecting millions.

Why Mental Health Matters
Mental health disorders are a global concern. In 2017, almost 800 million people were living with a mental health condition, and depression is now one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Anxiety and depression can make everyday activities, sleeping, eating, working, or even leaving the house, incredibly difficult.

Traditional treatments often include a combination of medication, counselling, and self-care practices like exercise, meditation, and improved sleep. But what many people don’t realise is that chiropractic care may also play a role in supporting mental health.

The Brain–Body Connection
Over the past two decades, scientists have discovered that chiropractic adjustments can influence the nervous system and, in particular, a key area of the brain called the prefrontal cortex. This part of the brain helps regulate emotions and calm the limbic system, the brain’s emotional centre and threat detector.

In anxiety and depression, the limbic system is often overactive, while the prefrontal cortex is underactive. Chronic stress can worsen this imbalance, leading to a constant “fight-or-flight” state, elevated stress hormones, and a reduced ability to relax.

Chiropractic adjustments appear to help by enhancing parasympathetic (calming) activity and improving prefrontal cortex function, which can help balance the nervous system and reduce the overactive stress response.

Research Backing the Benefits
One 2016 study in Spain looked at people with tension-type headaches who also experienced anxiety and depression. Participants who received adjustments to their upper neck saw the greatest improvements in mood and anxiety levels, compared to those who only received soft tissue massage. While more research is needed, the findings are promising and align with the experiences of thousands of chiropractic patients worldwide.

Supporting Your Mental and Physical Health
While chiropractic care isn’t a replacement for medical or psychological treatment, it may be a valuable addition to your wellness routine, helping you feel calmer, sleep better, and handle stress more effectively.

If you or someone you know is dealing with anxiety, depression, or ongoing stress, our team at Thame Chiropractic Clinic is here to help. Together, we can explore how gentle, targeted adjustments might support both your body and your mind.