A Body Hack for the Immune System

A client came in several weeks ago with a rising infection in the head, together with a blocked, runny nose and tightness in the throat.

“I made the comment that I would free up the drainage and help to get the body healing itself,” says Dr Jonathan Wilson (Chiropractor).

The idea of looking after your immune system is well understood by chiropractic clients. We recognise that when an infection begins to emerge, we should go to bed earlier, eat nutrient-dense foods, ensure that we get plenty of rest, and spend some time outside each day to re-oxygenate ourselves. Of course, it’s also crucial that we get our spines checked and adjusted. This allows our bodies to function more efficiently.

How Blockages Affect the Immune System

When the drainage for the head and neck becomes impaired, congestion becomes more pronounced. This increased pressure irritates the throat, creates inflammation and results in the symptoms we attribute to colds and throat infections.

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes and organs (such as your tonsils) that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. The primary function of the lymphatic system is to collect lymph, which is the clear fluid that moves out from the blood through the tiny holes in your blood vessels.

The lymphatic system collects fluid from the body and returns it to the cardiovascular system. Lymph contains infection-fighting white blood cells and is filtered in the lymph nodes.

These vessels can become blocked, leading to oedema (swelling) and creating much of the discomfort we experience when we get a respiratory infection.

How Chiropractic Care Helps Promote Healing

By helping to drain the client’s head and neck, Dr Wilson helped reduce her symptoms and promote healing. He also provided some stretches and tips for stimulating her immune system. Her response—”What a cool body hack!”