McArdle Chiropractic and Wellness Center, in Johnston, Rhode Island, is run by a husband-and-wife team, Dr. Catie McArdle and Dr. Robert Sedlor, who integrate chiropractic techniques and physiotherapies with advice in preventative care, nutritional health, exercise and proper ergonomics.

Chiropractic is a natural form of health care that focuses on the whole body and the relationship between the structure of the spine and the function of the nervous system. It is a conservative, non-invasive form of restoring the body to its optimal state of well-being. Chiropractors use their hands to manually manipulate the musculoskeletal system, without using drugs or surgical intervention. The spinal adjustments correct the misaligned vertebrae and help to restore nerve function to allow the body to heal on its own.

Although most patients seek treatment for neck and back pain, sciatica and headaches, chiropractic care can alleviate neuro-musculoskeletal dysfunctions in the extremities and sports-related injuries. Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate stress, which might include muscle knots in the neck, back and shoulders. Adjustments can also influence the immune system by targeting the nerves that may be blocking immune response.

Both McArdle and Sedlor apply various techniques and tools, such as flexion-distraction, trigger point therapy, myofascial release and physiotherapy. Flexion-distraction therapy, for example, is performed on a segmented table that moves. Combined with the movements of the table, chiropractic manipulations stretch and decompress the spine to relieve back, leg, neck or arm pain.

Physiotherapies complement manual adjustments and can help to decrease the healing time of an injury, strengthen muscles and reduce muscle spasm, pain and inflammation. Physiotherapies include  electric muscle stimulation, ultrasound therapy, hydrocollator heat therapy and cryotherapy with ice.

McArdle Chiropractic provides dietary recommendations and prescribes nutraceuticals manufactured by Metagenics, a research-based company that is recognized worldwide for its high standard of quality, purity, safety and effectiveness.

During the initial evaluation, each patient articulates his personal goals, and the practitioner assesses the patient’s current condition and starts to develop an individualized treatment plan. A goal may be to get off pain medication or something as simple as being able to garden or do some other activity.

“Every patient comes in with a different goal,” says McArdle, “whether it be picking up their grandchildren, or running a marathon. We strive to get patients healthier so they can achieve that goal.”

The patient-tailored treatment plan incorporates proper care of the self and spine at home, including stretching and strengthening exercises, as well as ergonomic changes, such as sleeping and sitting positions. It’ll also include physical and systematic re-evaluations, so adjustments can be made if needed.

The McArdle team offers chiropractic care for all ages and recently celebrated its one-year anniversary at their new location, in Johnston.