Can a Chiropractor Help with Sinus Problems?

The spring season is upon us! And Atlanta is a delight in these months. We have so much greenery, so many blooms, and a variety of flowers, trees, and grass. But this delight often brings a fair share of problems with it. Atlanta has so much pollen in the months of March, April, and May that the spring season is known as the pollen season here! And unfortunately for those suffering from allergies, this season brings an increased risk of sinus infections.

Everyone knows how uncomfortable it is to have a stuffy, runny nose. And it is worse when you are dealing with a sinus infection! While the symptoms of a common cold usually subside in a few days, sinus problems may linger around for over a couple of weeks. It could also bring facial pain, headache, postnasal drip, a sore throat, or halitosis (bad breath)–making things more miserable.

What is a sinus infection and how does it occur? And more importantly, is chiropractic care a solution to sinus problems? I will explain-

Sinuses and sinusitis

In simple words, sinuses are the “hollow spaces” in the head–within the bones of the forehead and cheeks. These cavities are connected by narrow channels. And sinuses create thin mucus that drains out of the nose through these channels. This “drainage” is responsible for keeping the nose clean.

Now, sinus infection or sinusitis is the swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. Mucus takes over the tissues, clogs the nasal passages, and blocks drainage. While healthy sinuses are filled with air, sinus infection causes them to be filled with fluid–causing fever, swelling, and other forms of pain.

Sinus infection- 7 big causes

Below are some common factors known to cause or increase the chances of getting sinusitis-

• Common cold might trigger sinus problems

• A deviated septum. (The septum is the cartilage dividing your nose). A deviated septum is closer to the nasal passage of one side of the nose–instead of being straight. This often causes a block.

• Facial bone and jaw misalignment.

• Large nasal polyps (soft growths on the lining of sinuses or the nasal passage) might lead to frequent sinus problems.

• Dehydration could cause mucus to thicken–hindering its proper drainage.

• Cigarette smoke or other tissue irritants of this kind can increase the risks of sinus infection. Smoking is thus harmful to you and those around you.

• Nasal, seasonal allergies.

Fortunately, there are natural and non-invasive ways to treat sinus problems and restore proper drainage of the sinuses. That is where chiropractic care comes into play.

Chiropractic against sinus problems

• Chiropractors can perform adjustments designed for sinuses. Realigning the facial bones to their natural state can help open the sinus pathways for proper drainage. This would pretty much feel like loosening up big chunks of mucus.

• A misaligned jaw can be a factor behind your sinus problems. The sphenoid bone (keystone bone of the face) when misaligned or stuck, often causes sinus issues, facial pain, or headache. In my office, I can address this issue using the proper correction therapies.

• By massaging specific areas around the neck and brain stem, chiropractors can help your body relax and drain the sinus passages. Removal of excess fluid from cavities has been immensely effective in treating sinus patients.

• In my office, I can walk you through some additional therapies that you may continue at home. Simple techniques of self-massages or stretches can help ease your sinus pain.

Tip on temporary sinus relief

If you are experiencing a runny rose or other sinus problems, steaming may help provide relief. Consider these steps-

• Boil some water in a bowl, with a pinch of sea salt

• Try adding 3 drops of peppermint oil and Eucalyptus oil

• Now, use a blanket to cover yourself and the bowl, and breathe the steam into your nasal passages.

• Let the drippings drip.

Are you dealing with constant sinusitis? Please know that there is a natural path to relief. At Lotus Chiropractic Care, you can discuss your condition with Dr. Tanvi Desai. She will walk you through the best treatment options available–for you to live your days to the fullest again!