Many consumers equate being healthy as being disease free. They may also be aware of the issues surrounding Canada's health care system, but did you know that health isn't just about the health care system? It is about wellness.
Wellness is more than the number of hospitals or the number of beds for acute and chronic care. It's about more than the number of doctors, and procedure waiting lists. This is not to say that these issues are not valid or important - but to bring into focus the bigger picture of health - that is wellness.
- Health is the capacity to function optimally and to achieve well being.
- Wellness is about taking responsibility for your own health and well being, and that of your family, community, society and environment as a whole.
Each person needs to define or redefine what health and wellness means. You may need to rethink how you deal with the issues and the problems in your life. You should also consider alternatives to treating diseases and disorders.
Chiropractic Care is Evidence Based Care
One such example concerns low back pain, one of the most costly diseases or disabilities in Canada. Chiropractic treatment, based on evidence as reported in "The Manga Report" (often referred to as the Pran Manga report) clearly states, "the area of low-back pain offers governments and the private sector an excellent opportunity to attain the twin goals of greater cost-effectiveness and a major reduction in health care costs."
The Manga Report was supported and solely funded by the Ministry of Health, Government of Ontario.
Chiropractors are More than Spine Doctors
Chiropractic care is about more than treating spinal health issues. It is a profession that treats the whole person, not just a back, a neck, a knee, or a shoulder joint.
When you consult a chiropractor you should know you are consulting a highly trained healthcare professional who not only addresses your spinal health needs but the issues that are affecting your spinal health. For example, when you have pain in your neck or low back, he or she will not only treat you, but also inquire as to "how you are doing and what have you been doing?"
This should tell you that your chiropractor is not only interested in you as a person, but he/she is taking the time to find out what may be causing your spinal health problems. For example, you may tell him/her that you have been lifting furniture, that you are under stress, or whatever the case may be.
Chiropractors Treat the Whole Person
Chiropractors are not only concerned with treating the spine and muscular skeletal conditions. They are also concerned with treating the whole person and educating people on a number of issues, such as how to lift objects correctly, educate you on the correct exercise techniques, what steps to take to deal with stress, correct posture, as well as other tips to prevent muscular skeletal injuries.
Most people have regular dental check ups, so why wouldn't you also consider going for a spinal health check up? If you've never consulted a chiropractor, you should. Spinal health is as important as caring for your teeth. Health is more than being disease free, it is also about caring for your spinal health and living well.
For more information go to The Canadian Chiropractic Association's website or consult a chiropractor in your community.
