Neuroendocrine-immune system function could benefit from chiropractic care

Chiropractic is best known for its role in musculoskeletal health. But what does the research say about the neuroendocrine-immune system?

In a Cureus article published in March 2024, the authors provide evidence that correcting vertebral subluxations could promote neuroendocrine-immune system function. This article reviews evidence supporting chiropractic’s role in not just improving musculoskeletal health but also improving the function of the neuroendocrine-immune system.

What is the neuroendocrine-immune system?

The neuroendocrine-immune system consists of the immune, nervous and endocrine systems. The latter two are commonly referred to collectively as the neuroendocrine system, while all work together to maintain homeostasis in the body.

Research indicates the immune and neuroendocrine systems are heavily interconnected. Both strive to recognize environmental cues (such as temperature, stress and pain) and then communicate information provided by these external signals to the internal body, often serving as a “sixth sense.” The exact information communicated affects the body’s immune response, such as by instigating hormonal changes in the gut.

Some major diseases have been suggested to impact the body through the neuroendocrine-immune system. For example, a 2023 article in Trends in Neurosciences contends that this system is hijacked by cancerous tumors, which take control and disturb homeostasis through the release of substances that mediate neurohormonal and immune responses, thus creating an environment where cancer can expand.

Chiropractic’s benefits

Authors of the March 2024 Cureus article reference evidence-based research supporting chiropractic’s role in promoting neuroendocrine-immune system function. Spinal manipulation provides this effect by correcting vertebral subluxations, resulting in reduced nervous system interference. The better the flow in the nervous system, the lower the risk of physiological maladaptation in the endocrine and immune systems.

After reviewing the evidence, the authors concluded that correcting vertebral subluxations through spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustment may promote neuroendocrine-immune system function by impacting or changing a patient’s:

• Blood pressure
• Cortisol levels
• Cytokine activity
• Heart rate variability
• Sleep quality
• Substance P and tumor necrosis factor-alfa (TNF-α) levels, both of which play a role in inflammation

Based on this evidence, the authors suggest that chiropractic plays an important role in integrative physiology since many of the body’s systems are so interconnected. In addition to promoting musculoskeletal health, it can also promote health in the nervous, endocrine and immune systems—supporting a person’s optimal health.

Additional ways to improve function

This effect is similar to those achieved with other complementary and alternative modalities, such as osteopathy and acupuncture. Each approach alters central nervous system input, inciting positive changes that occur both inside and outside the neuromuscular system.

For example, a 2020 meta-analysis revealed that when compared to a sham treatment, acupuncture was more effective at improving musculoskeletal pain for more than six months, also improving quality of life and functionality in the short term. At the same time, other studies have connected acupuncture with the improvement of non-musculoskeletal issues through its effects on the NEI system, such as one piece of research that shares acupuncture’s ability to help relieve irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Reducing external signals

Because the neuroendocrine-immune system works by interpreting and responding to external signals, such as stress and pain, finding ways to reduce these signals may have a positive impact as well. In the case of stress, engaging in relaxation techniques can help. Deep breathing exercises, physical activity and meditation can all relax the body and mind.

If pain is a frequent external signal, finding relief may reduce this signaling. Chiropractic can provide a double effect in certain instances, easing musculoskeletal pain while also reducing signals that have the ability to change neuroendocrine-immune system function. This creates a two-lane road to greater health, making spinal manipulation even more important for patients with pain-based issues.

Final thoughts

Chiropractic does more than promote musculoskeletal health. Studies indicate it also helps improve the health of the nervous, endocrine and immune systems.