If you’ve been following along with my self-imposed mini chiropractic series, you may already be pretty well-versed in a few areas. You may now know what to expect from your very first chiropractic appointment — and you may even know all about the services that can complement a chiropractic appointment. (Think of things like cupping.)

If you’ve been going to a chiropractor regularly, you may have already experienced the importance of regular chiropractic care — and you may even be able to testify to the importance of maintaining regular appointments with your chiropractor.

But besides things like better flexibility, mobility, and living pain-free, you can also expect to see some other surprising changes once you’ve started seeing a chiropractor. Here are a few benefits you may not have expected to see once you begin working with a chiropractor.

Surprising benefits of going to a chiropractor

1. Better focus

The spine houses the spinal cord, which is part of the central nervous system. The CNS is also what the body uses to communicate with the brain — so if something is off in the spine, there may be some struggle to concentrate and focus in the brain. (Brain fog, anyone?)

The good news is going to a chiropractor may realign your spine (if it’s needed), which can allow for better communication between the brain and body, thereby giving you more clarity and focus.

2. Boosted libido

Need an extra boost in the bedroom? Going to the chiropractor can do just that. Think about it: The body’s functions are controlled by the nervous system — and when you have a misalignment in places like the spine, out-of-place vertebrae can block some signals traveling from your brain to the rest of your body to let it know you’re ready for action.

Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are released right below the brain stem around the C1 and C2 vertebrae — so any misalignments may make it harder for your body to realize it’s time to get it on.

However, when proper adjustments are made by your chiropractor, you may notice you feel friskier. (Doubt anyone will complain about that.) What better reason to engage in some self-exploration with your favorite sex toy or have some fun with your partner in one of these sex positions?

3. Improved digestion and bowel movements

It’s no surprise that everybody poops — but did you know going to a chiropractor can actually have an effect on your bowel movements for the better? That’s right, folks: The digestive system is directly linked to the vertebrae in the lower back, which is why an adjustment can possibly bring about some welcome changes to your daily digestion.

Battling a bout of being backed up? (Say that five times fast!) Although some foods may offer some relief, a chiropractic adjustment may also help alleviate feelings of constipation while those with normal bowel movements may see an increase in irregular digestion. Better poops? Count us in.

Additional benefits of going to a chiropractor

Michael Risher, chiropractor with The Rehab Lab, shares a few more changes you can expect to see when going to a chiropractor for regular maintenance check-ups. Think of things like…

• Better sleep
• Decreased muscle tension 
• Improved joint mobility and posture
• More efficient movement in regular activities
• Reduced overall pain

The bottom line: The next time you’re considering going to a chiropractor, know that you may experience some pretty positive changes that go well beyond a better back.