Digestive Issues & Your Nervous System: A Chiropractic Perspective
What if your Chiropractor in Chatswood could help with digestive issues as well as yout musculoskeletal problems? Many people experience bloating, reflux, constipation, or irregular bowel movements. But did you know your spine and nervous system play a major role in the way your digestive system functions?
At Family Chiropractic Chatswood, we look at the body as an interconnected system. Your digestive organs rely on clear communication through the nervous system—especially via the vagus nerve. When spinal stress or subluxations affect these nerve pathways, your digestion may not perform at its best.
How the Nervous System Influences Digestion
Your brain communicates with your digestive system through the spinal cord and nerves. This “gut–brain connection” regulates:
- Stomach acid and digestive enzymes
- Bowel regularity and movement
- Nutrient breakdown and absorption
- “Rest and digest” responses
If the body is stuck in fight-or-flight mode, digestion naturally slows down. Chiropractic adjustments aim to improve spinal and nervous system function, supporting the body’s ability to return to a calmer state where digestion works more efficiently.
Subluxation, Spinal Health & Digestive Function
A subluxation refers to a spinal imbalance that may affect healthy nerve communication. Many people notice improvements in overall wellbeing, including digestion, when their nervous system is functioning better.
What does research say?
- Research in the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association found chiropractic care was associated with improvements in infants with colic and digestive discomfort, suggesting positive nervous system responses.¹
- A study from the ICPA observed improvement in adults with constipation following chiropractic adjustments, indicating changes in bowel motility may be related to spinal care.²
These findings highlight the connection between nervous system function and digestion.
To learn more about our approach, visit our New Patients page.
Natural Tips to Support Better Digestion
Here are two simple ways to support your gut today:
✅ Chew slowly and eat mindfully
This improves digestion, absorption, and reduces bloating.
✅ Add fermented foods
Foods like kefir, kimchi, yoghurt, and sauerkraut support healthy gut bacteria.
❌ Avoid eating while stressed or rushed
Take 3 slow breaths before eating to shift into “digest mode”.
When to Consider Chiropractic Care
You may benefit from a chiropractic spinal check if you notice:
- Digestive discomfort paired with upper or mid-back tension
- Poor posture (especially from computer or desk work)
- High stress, headaches or disturbed sleep
Our goal is to help your body function at its best from the inside out.
Book an appointment at Family Chiropractic Chatswood today to support your digestive and overall wellbeing.
