What is considered the most critical effect of manipulative therapy?

The most critical effect of manipulative therapy is often understood to be the quieting of sympathetic hyperactivity. This aspect is significant in chiropractic care because it addresses the body's autonomic nervous system, specifically the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. When the sympathetic nervous system is overly active, it can lead to various health issues, including heightened stress responses, chronic pain, and decreased physiological function.

Manipulative therapy aims to restore balance by decreasing sympathetic nervous system activity, which can promote relaxation and allow for a more normalized response in bodily functions. This calming effect can facilitate healing processes, reduce pain perception, and improve overall bodily function.

While increased overall mobility, relief of acute pain, and improved muscle strength are important outcomes of manipulative therapy, the foundational change in sympathetic activity is often viewed as a more critical therapeutic target because it can lead to cascading benefits in the body's systems and overall health. By addressing sympathetic hyperactivity, chiropractors help patients achieve a more balanced state, promoting long-term well-being rather than just symptomatic relief.