Most people think of chiropractic care only when they’re experiencing back pain — but according to Dr John Fortuna, a seasoned chiropractor with over 20 years of clinical experience, there are many other signs your body may be signaling it’s time to see a chiropractor. These signs often go unnoticed or are mistakenly chalked up to aging, stress, or poor sleep. In truth, they could be early indicators of spinal misalignment and nervous system dysfunction.
Here, Dr. Fortuna shares the most common symptoms he sees in patients who ultimately benefit from chiropractic care — and why paying attention to these signals can help you take control of your health sooner.
- Frequent Headaches
Tension headaches and migraines are often linked to neck and upper back misalignments, poor posture, or restricted blood flow. “Many patients are surprised to learn that their headaches aren’t just from stress or dehydration,” says Dr John Fortuna. “After a few spinal adjustments, they often see a significant drop in frequency and intensity.”
- Persistent Neck or Back Pain
This is the most obvious sign, but too often it’s ignored or treated with temporary fixes like pain medication. If you’re experiencing chronic discomfort or stiffness in your neck, shoulders, or back, it could mean that your spine is out of alignment or that there’s nerve compression. A chiropractor can address the root cause rather than masking the symptoms.
- Limited Range of Motion
Are you struggling to twist, bend, or stretch the way you used to? A reduced range of motion in your neck, back, or joints might be due to musculoskeletal imbalances. “We often see athletes or active adults who think they’re just sore, but after an evaluation, we find restrictions in the spine that can be corrected,” explains Dr. Fortuna.
- Tingling or Numbness in Limbs
A pinched nerve caused by spinal misalignment can lead to numbness, tingling, or weakness — particularly in the arms, hands, legs, or feet. These symptoms may signal conditions like sciatica or cervical radiculopathy. Chiropractic adjustments can relieve pressure on affected nerves, helping restore normal function.
- Fatigue and Trouble Sleeping
A misaligned spine can cause low-grade, chronic discomfort that interferes with sleep. Poor sleep then contributes to daytime fatigue, mental fog, and a compromised immune system. Chiropractic care can help the body relax and reset by improving nervous system function and reducing pain-related sleep disturbances.
- Poor Posture or a Sedentary Lifestyle
If you spend long hours sitting — especially at a computer — your posture may be suffering. “I see a lot of tech neck and lower back strain from desk jobs,” says Dr John Fortuna. Regular adjustments, along with ergonomic advice and stretches, can prevent long-term damage and improve posture.
Listen to Your Body
Your body is constantly sending you signals. By paying attention to these common warning signs and seeking professional help early, you can avoid more serious issues down the line. Dr. John Fortuna emphasizes that chiropractic care isn’t just about treating pain — it’s about promoting long-term wellness and helping the body function at its highest potential.