Our sinuses consist of eight hollow spaces located in our forehead, temples, and cheeks. Each of these cavities has coatings of mucous membranes, which assist in trapping foreign particles such as microbes and dust.

Whenever our sinuses become inflamed, their ability to drain mucous is heavily affected, causing several problems, including possible infection. This condition is also known as sinusitis. Several common factors which can cause this include unusual structure of the sinus area, and chronic allergies, and sudden changes in pressure and altitude (such as during flying or driving).

Inflamed sinuses can cause headaches characterized by mild to severe pain felt in the forehead and cheek area, usually experienced during morning, gradually decreasing towards the afternoon.

The most common form of inflamed sinuses is known as acute sinusitis, which happens whenever fluid interferes with the tissues in our sinuses, often causing bacterial infection. Its symptoms include runny nose and headache, and can last for as long as an entire month.

Who’s affected by sinusitis?

People of all ages are prone to getting sinusitis, but it typically occurs for those aged 18 to 45 years old. Children can also develop sinusitis in case they’re exposed to allergens, cigarette smoke, and illnesses from other children. For adults, the most common factors that can lead to sinusitis are smoking and bacterial infection.

Individuals who have the following have the highest risk of developing sinus problems:

• Nasal mucous membrane swelling
• Narrow drainage ducts
• Nasal polyps
• Drainage duct blockage
• Immune deficiencies

How Gonstead chiropractic can treat sinus problems
The Gonstead system of chiropractic focuses on assisting the body’s nervous system by restoring and improving function and removing any interference. Barring the existence of bone spurs, nasal polyps, or other abnormal structures, Gonstead chiropractic in Torrance can be a very effective alternative treatment for patients with sinus problems.

Chiropractic is known as an effective remedy for treating headaches. Various studies have shown that chiropractic treatment is a proven method of enhancing the functions of both the immune system and the nervous system, improving their ability to work as a whole. This makes it very ideal for treating sinus problems, as the mucous membranes of the sinuses are affected by both the nervous system and the immune system.

What to expect during a chiropractic sinus adjustment
On your initial visit, your chiropractor will ask several questions regarding your medical history and perform a physical exam to determine the source of your pain. He or she may also use x-rays to determine which areas will require treatment.

A chiropractic sinus adjustment focuses on the bones and mucous membranes lining the sinus cavities. During the procedure, your chiropractor will apply light, controlled pressure to the targeted areas. Depending on the location of your sinus problem, your chiropractor may focus on bones within your facial region and other body parts, including your spine.

Some chiropractors also use nasal-specific techniques in conjunction with more traditional methods for more effective treatment. This may be a bit more invasive than traditional methods, as it typically involves small balloons inserted into the cavities to expand its openings. Nasal-specific techniques are effective for those with sinus problems, as these can help with draining excess fluid and alleviate pressure.