Women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) shortly before their periods tend to experience some or even all of the following: mood swings, distended abdomen, headaches, back pain, food cravings, fatigue, irritability and depression. The severity of these symptoms varies greatly, from mildly inconvenienced to grab-an-AK-47, and they may last anything from a couple of days to two weeks.
It is thought that three-quarters of menstruating women experience some degree of PMS, and it is women in their late 20s to early 40s who are likely to suffer most. 10 to 20% of sufferers will experience symptoms they find severe or even disabling.
The cause of PMS is naturally assumed to be the hormonal changes that take place during the monthly menstrual cycle, which can then be exacerbated by stress, a lack of serotonin in the brain, and subluxations in the low back.
Chiropractic care cannot remedy the hormonal changes that precede menstruation, but certain studies have shown that it can help to reduce many of the symptoms of PMS, with the added benefit of your avoiding prescription drugs. This is because the tissues in the lower abdomen are regulated by the nerves that exit the lower spine, therefore chiropractic care to alleviate any unnecessary pressure or irritation on these can help make a positive difference.
For Your Health,
Dr. Steven M. Gillis
