Friday, October 19, 2012

It’s a Gut Feeling: Chiropractic Care with Constipation and Diarrhea



We had some excitement at our office earlier this week and I had no opportunity to do a Monday post. My apologies! Hopefully you will find this interesting.

Our bodies are made up of so many different parts that I love sharing with you some of the fascinating things which I have learned over the years. Today let’s talk about the ileocecal valve.

The ileocecal valve is where the ileum (small intestine) connects to the cecum (large intestine) and is located in the lower-right abdomen. The small intestine absorbs the majority of the proteins, fats and carbohydrates contained in the food we eat, and the large intestine absorbs the excess water which keeps the food liquid enough to pass through the intestines. Many vitamins and chemicals which are water-soluble get absorbed at the same time.

A valve is located at this junction and is normally closed. The act of swallowing solid foods causes the valve to open momentarily and the liquid waste held behind the valve squirts into the large intestine for water removal and expulsion. This is why a healthy person often has a bowel movement shortly after a meal. When the ileocecal valve sticks closed, the person often experiences constipation; when the valve sticks open – diarrhea.

I would love to say that a chiropractor discovered how to treat ileocecal valve problems, but I was told that it was probably originally an osteopathic treatment. It involves deep tissue massage of the valve and you can find some chiropractors and some massage therapists who know how to perform it. I would be surprised to find any osteopaths still utilizing the various massage treatments they pioneered. Naturally, a chiropractic treatment administered concurrently would help the body to heal the valve and minimize future recurrences.

Your chiropractor can help with a variety of complaints and ailments. If you want to get rid of pain, or just feel better, consult with a chiropractor. I know that you will be pleased with the results.

Getting rid of your pain,
Dr. Steven Ray, Chiropractor
Val Vista Chiropractic

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