Most people only think of going to a chiropractor if they are already suffering from muscle pain or their joints are stiffer than they used to be. However, chiropractic treatment is not only effective at providing relief for pain that is already present. If you are aware of common risks to spinal health and indicators of spinal problems, you can visit a chiropractor for treatment before chronic pain develops. Here are some signs that visiting a chiropractor could be beneficial to your health.

You Work at a Sedentary Job

If you are like many adults in the U.S. with a sedentary job, you may be doing more damage to your spinal health than you think. Long periods of sitting at a desk often leads to bad posture that puts excess pressure on your shoulders, neck, and upper back. Over time, your spinal discs can shift enough to pinch nerves and cause chronic pain.

To avoid the problems caused by prolonged sitting, you should consider seeing a chiropractor regularly soon after you start working a sedentary job. Chiropractors can provide spinal adjustments that counteract the effects of sitting and reduce the chances that a permanent injury will develop. A chiropractor can also give you advice about stretching and how often to take breaks from sitting that will further lessen the negative impact of sedentary work.

You Have Signs of Spinal Misalignment

Pain is not usually the first sign that your spine is out of alignment. There are a few subtle indicators of spinal problems that can help you avoid chronic pain if you know how to recognize them. You should first pay attention to the positioning of your head and neck when you are sitting. Your should be able to keep your head resting comfortably directly above your shoulders. If you are more comfortable with your head jutting slightly forward from your shoulders, you should consider seeing a chiropractor for spinal adjustments.

Because chiropractors primarily work with the back, shoulders, and neck, it may surprise you to learn that you can detect subtle spine misalignments by examining the soles of your shoes. If your spine is in perfect alignment, both soles should wear evenly. Spine misalignment can cause one of your soles to wear out more quickly than the other by shifting the balance of your entire skeletal system.

Keep these tips in mind so you can detect potential spinal problems before pain develops and visit a chiropractor for preventative treatment. For more information, contact All American Chiropratic Center or a similar location.