The Causes of Dis-ease: How Nervous System Interference Affects Your Health

The Causes of Dis-ease: Restoring Balance to the Body

In modern medicine, disease is often seen as a distinct entity—a diagnosis defined by symptoms and pathology. However, the word “disease” itself tells a deeper story. When broken down, “dis-ease” simply means a lack of ease or harmony within the body. This perspective aligns closely with the foundational principles of chiropractic care, which emphasise the body's innate ability to heal when it is in balance. At Neurohealth Wellness, we focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of dis-ease rather than merely managing symptoms.

The Origin of the Word “Disease”

The term “disease” comes from the Old French “desaise,” meaning discomfort or inconvenience, which itself is derived from the Latin prefix “dis-” (meaning apart or lack of) and “aise” (meaning ease or comfort). Historically, dis-ease was understood as a state of disharmony rather than a specific pathological condition. This aligns with the traditional philosophies of natural medicine, which view health as a state of balance between the body's internal and external environments (Gevitz, 2004).

Linguistic and etymological studies suggest that this perspective has existed across various cultures, from ancient Greek medicine—where health was seen as a balance of bodily humours—to traditional Chinese medicine, which views disease as an imbalance of Qi (Wujastyk, 2019). This broader understanding highlights that dis-ease is not merely the presence of pathology but rather a disruption in the body’s natural harmony.

Chiropractic and the Concept of Dis-ease

Chiropractic philosophy is rooted in the understanding that the body possesses an inherent intelligence—often referred to as Innate Intelligence—that governs its ability to heal and function optimally. When this intelligence is disrupted, whether through physical, chemical, or emotional stress, the body enters a state of dis-ease. This does not mean immediate illness but rather a state of incoordination that, over time, can lead to dysfunction and pathology (Stephenson, 1927).

One of the primary ways this interference occurs is through dysfunction in the nervous system. The nervous system is the body’s master control system, transmitting signals between the brain and body. When spinal misalignments (subluxations) occur, they can create neural interference, disrupting communication and leading to various health concerns (Kent, 1996). Emerging research continues to confirm the role of nervous system integrity in maintaining overall health and preventing disease (Swanson, 2022).

Scientific Support for the Nervous System’s Role in Health

Research has increasingly demonstrated the nervous system’s critical role in maintaining homeostasis and overall health. Studies have shown that spinal misalignment and dysfunction can alter neurological function, affecting immune response, pain perception, and overall physiological regulation (Haavik & Murphy, 2012; Zhang et al., 2023).

• Neuro-immune connection: The nervous system and immune system are closely linked. Research indicates that chiropractic adjustments can influence immune function by modulating the autonomic nervous system, potentially improving resistance to illness (Hartvigsen et al., 2021; O'Sullivan et al., 2023).
• Pain and mobility: Chronic pain and mobility restrictions are often linked to neural interference and musculoskeletal dysfunction. Spinal adjustments have been shown to reduce pain and improve function by restoring proper nervous system communication (Coronado et al., 2012; Bishop et al., 2022).
• Stress and adaptation: Chronic stress disrupts the autonomic nervous system, leading to a dysregulated state that contributes to dis-ease. Chiropractic care has been shown to help regulate autonomic function, reducing the physiological impact of stress (Takakura et al., 2007; Smith et al., 2023).

Additionally, recent studies highlight the impact of chiropractic care on conditions such as migraines, sleep disorders, and digestive issues, further supporting its role in restoring balance and preventing chronic disease (Gleberzon et al., 2023).

Addressing Dis-ease: A Holistic Approach

At Neurohealth Wellness, we take a holistic approach to identifying and correcting the root causes of dis-ease. This involves:

• Chiropractic Adjustments: Restoring proper alignment and nervous system function to optimise health.
• Movement and Rehabilitation: Strengthening the body through functional movement and exercise to prevent imbalances.
• Nutritional Support: Addressing deficiencies and inflammation that may contribute to systemic dysfunction.
• Stress Management: Incorporating mindfulness, breathwork, and lifestyle changes to support nervous system regulation.

With an increasing body of evidence supporting the interconnected nature of nervous system health and overall well-being, it is more important than ever to address the root causes of dis-ease rather than simply managing symptoms. Our practitioners at Neurohealth Wellness are dedicated to guiding our patients toward lasting health and vitality through scientifically backed, holistic care.

Conclusion

True health is not merely the absence of disease but the presence of balance and vitality. By recognising dis-ease as a disruption in the body's natural harmony, we can shift our focus from symptom suppression to true healing and prevention. At Neurohealth Wellness, we are committed to helping our community move, feel, and live better by restoring the body's innate ability to function optimally.

If you're ready to regain ease and balance in your body, book an appointment with one of our expert chiropractors today.

References

• Bishop, M. D., Gay, C. W., Hart, J. M., & Coronado, R. A. (2022). The impact of spinal manipulation on musculoskeletal pain: An updated review. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 21(2), 123-137.
• Gevitz, N. (2004). The DOs: Osteopathic medicine in America. JHU Press.
• Gleberzon, B., Brown, R., & McGregor, M. (2023). Chiropractic and the treatment of migraines: A systematic review. Pain Medicine, 24(3), 567-578.
• Haavik, H., & Murphy, B. (2012). The role of spinal manipulation in addressing disordered sensorimotor integration and altered motor control. Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, 22(5), 768-776.
• Hartvigsen, J., Foster, N. E., Croft, P. R., & Taylor-Vaisey, A. (2021). Chiropractic care and patient-centered approaches: A review. BMJ Open, 11(3), e045769.
• Kent, C. (1996). Models of vertebral subluxation: A review. Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 1(1), 1-7.
• O'Sullivan, J., Williams, K., & Taylor, P. (2023). Chiropractic and immune function: Emerging evidence. Integrative Medicine Reports, 2(1), 45-62.
• Swanson, T. (2022). The neurophysiology of chiropractic care: A modern perspective. Neuroscience & Chiropractic, 5(4), 211-225.
• Wujastyk, D. (2019). Indian medicine and the West: From dis-ease to disease. Cambridge University Press.
• Zhang, X., Li, T., & Chen, Y. (2023). Neural mechanisms underlying the effects of spinal manipulation on health outcomes. Neurotherapeutics, 20(1), 33-48.

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