Chiropractic care · Raynham & Taunton, MA

Be well.
Live well.

Optimal health and wellness through chiropractic care, from brothers Dr. Shawn Eaton and Dr. Darren Eaton — over 30 years as Doctors of Chiropractic.

We are in most insurance networks: Blue Cross, Harvard Pilgrim, Medicare, Wellpoint, Tufts, Mass. Health, WellSense and more.

30+years as Doctors of Chiropractic
2000year Eaton Chiropractic opened
2brothers, practicing together
M·W·Foffice hours, 9–12 & 3–6

About us

Active lives, taken seriously.

Dr. Darren and Dr. Shawn are not only life long advocates for physical fitness and strength training, equipped with advanced expertise in anatomy and physiology, and the handling of neuromusculoskeletal issues as Doctors of Chiropractic for over 30 plus years. We ourselves have been persistently committed to health and fitness for over 40 plus years, embodying a lifelong dedication to physical wellness and strength training.

As a result we deeply understand the challenges of maintaining an active lifestyle while navigating the effects of injuries and aging.

The information on this site is for everyone seeking knowledge on the wonders of good health through chiropractic. Our office recognizes the challenges that acute and chronic pain can cause in your quality of life. Your health not only affects you, it affects your family and everyone around you. We believe everyone deserves a healthy life.

Please take advantage of all the information provided and contact us personally if we can offer specific information suited to your healthcare needs. It has been our pleasure to be part of the lives of so many patients and their families over the years serving the Raynham, Taunton, Lakeville and Middleboro area. While we are excited and proud of our many achievements and the great health benefits our patients have received through Chiropractic, we continue to pledge to our patients and the community to uphold the highest standards of excellence in practice and public service.

We are in most insurance networks: Blue Cross, Harvard Pilgrim, Medicare, Wellpoint, Tufts, Mass. Health, WellSense and more.

Doctors & staff

Meet the Doctors

Dr. Shawn F. Eaton

Dr. Shawn F. Eaton earned a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1995 and became licensed to practice in Massachusetts the same year. After serving as an associate chiropractor in Methuen, MA from 1996 to 2000, Dr. Eaton established a private practice with his brother Dr. Darren Eaton where he continues to provide dedicated patient care.

With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Eaton is skilled in diagnostics, x-ray interpretation, and advanced chiropractic techniques focused on improving range of motion, reducing pain, and supporting overall wellness. As co-host of the radio show Health Matters on 1530 AM from 2008 to 2014, he discussed a wide range of health and fitness topics to help educate the public.

An avid gym enthusiast for more than four decades, Dr. Eaton understands the challenges of maintaining health and performance. He is deeply committed to helping patients reach their full potential through knowledgeable, proactive, and compassionate chiropractic care.

My brother and I practice together. I feel very fortunate everyday to have my brother for my partner. Our main focus is your well being.

We are highly interested in educating you about the integral part that chiropractic plays in a healthy lifestyle and giving you choices. It's your health, all we can do is give you the information, what you choose to do with that information is completely up to you. We make it a point to explain everything in advance, answer questions and attempt to over communicate. We help all kinds of patients: ranging from neck and back pain, headaches, stress management, problems in the extremities, and most importantly, the overall wellness of the human body.

Education

Palmer College of Chiropractic

I earned my Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree and bachelor degree in science from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa in 1995. I performed my internship in the Palmer College Clinics. After my graduation from Palmer College I practiced as an associate in Methuen, Massachusetts for 5 years. In 2000 we opened Eaton Chiropractic.

Co-host Radio talk show Health Matters 1530AM WVBF 2008-2014

Dr. Darren R. Eaton

Most people ask how I got interested in Chiropractic. My story is that while attending Springfield College earning by Bachelors in Health and Fitness, I suffered a neck injury while playing football. I had pain in the neck and down the right arm. I went through the usual, Medical Doctor and physical therapy with not much success. This was going on for approximately three weeks and very discouraging. I was loaded up with muscle relaxers, anti-inflammatories, and pain killers. A good friend of mine finally said "you need to see my chiropractor". I was like a what? He said come with me and I will show you. I went with him the Chiropractor did a history, examination, and x-rays he showed me I had a pinched nerve (more complicated than that) and he adjusted me that day. I immediately felt a release of pressure on my arm and I said to myself there is something to this. I told the Medical Doctor and the therapist that I went to the chiropractor they both advised against it. I said but I feel better! They said not a good idea. I don’t remember what reason they gave me but it wasn’t good enough for me. They didn’t even care that I felt better. I knew they didn’t have my interest at heart they had an issue with the chiropractic profession. I continued to see the Chiropractor with fantastic results. That’s why I became a Chiropractor.

After graduating from Springfield College in 1989, with a Bachelors in Health and Fitness. I pursued a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic and graduated in 1994. From 1994 until 2000 I practiced with another chiropractor in Seattle, Washington. I met my wife, Yvonne, 1998 we married in 2000 and moved to Massachusetts where I grew up.

Co-host Radio talk show Health Matters 1530AM WVBF 2008-2014

Services offered

Hands-on care, built around you.

01

Chiropractic Adjustments and Manipulations

02

Ergonomics

03

Joint Mobilization

04

Lifestyle and Nutrition Advice

05

Manual Therapy

06

Neuromuscular Re-Education

07

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

08

Therapeutic Exercise

09

Trigger Point Therapy

New patients

What should you expect on your first visit?

At our chiropractic center our examinations procedures are geared toward detection and correction of the "Vertebral Subluxation" (see “What Is a Subluxation?” in the Wellness Library below). The procedures we use are therefore specifically selected for your spine and nervous system health. There are a couple of things that you should expect when you have a first visit at our clinic.

Our Examination consists of a thorough spinal and nervous system exam which includes "Palpation". Palpation essentially is checking your spine by hand. With this exam the doctor can feel areas of your spine that may be involved with subluxations problems. Spinal position, curvatures and muscle tone can also be examined as it relates to possible spinal subluxations. Your examination may also include some specialized equipment designed to better access your spine and nervous system. This examination could involve several components.

The first part of this examination process may involve reading spinal heat differences from one level of the spine to another, as well as from one side of the spine to the other. Heat is a byproduct of circulation, which is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. From this we can see how subluxation may be affecting these functions of your nervous system.

In the second part of this examination scans may be performed on the surface of your spinal area to evaluate surface electrical impulses and measure them along your spine. This helps measure the effect of subluxation on the motor nerve system and the affect subluxations may be having on your muscles.

The importance of each of these tests will be explained to you at your Report of Findings. However, it is important to note that this examination helps scientifically understand the subluxation processes going on in your spine. It also gives us a baseline for future tests so we can accurately measure your progress to see how your spine is correcting and your nervous system is functioning. Using these examination procedures is much more accurate than just depending on "how you feel" on any given day.

Spinal X-rays may be taken depending on your age, and situation. There are many reasons why we would not take x-rays on certain patients including pregnancy, most children, recent usable spinal x-rays and some other various situations. Aside from these situations, x-rays are a common part of the examination process when looking for vertebral subluxations. X-rays give us important information including the position of the spinal bones, and the quality of the spine and safety of adjusting it. X-rays also tell us the relative length of time subluxations may have been involved in your spine. Commonly, most patients receive three spinal x-rays at the beginning of care.

With this important information we can make a more accurate determination of the type of adjustments your spine needs as well as the ongoing frequency of your care. Your x-rays will be explained to you and covered in detail at your Report of Findings. You will be scheduled for your Report of Findings within a few days of your initial visit. This visit is your most important visit and may take up to one hour. It is at your Report of Findings that we will give you a care plan and go over any special instructions you will need to obtain the best and fastest possible results. We have set aside specific times for these visits so as not to interfere with regular patient care hours. Our staff will schedule your Report of Findings with you after your first visit.

Our Chiropractic Care utilizes the most modern chiropractic analytical, and adjustive procedures and equipment available. We consider subluxations to be a serious threat to the quality and quantity of your health and that of your family. It is therefore imperative that we utilize the most modern, and the well established time-proven procedures to help you. We feel you're worth it!

Wellness library

Learn how your spine and nervous system work.

Subluxation

In simplest terms, a subluxation (a.k.a. Vertebral Subluxation) is when one or more of the bones of your spine (vertebrae) move out of position and create pressure on, or irritate spinal nerves. Spinal nerves are the nerves that come out from between each of the bones in your spine. This pressure or irritation on the nerves then causes those nerves to malfunction and interfere with the signals traveling over those nerves.

How does this affect you? Your nervous system controls and coordinates all the functions of your body. If you interfere with the signals traveling over nerves, parts of your body will not get the proper nerve messages and will not be able to function at 100% of their innate abilities. In other words, some part of your body will not be working properly. It is the responsibility of the Doctor of Chiropractic to locate subluxations, and reduce or correct them. This is done through a series of chiropractic adjustments specifically designed to correct the vertebral subluxations in your spine. Chiropractors are the only professionals who undergo years of training to be the experts at correcting subluxations.

Now, the detailed explanation.

Subluxations are really a combination of changes going on at the same time. These changes occur both in your spine and throughout your body. For this reason chiropractors often refer to vertebral subluxations as the "Vertebral Subluxation Complex", or "VSC" for short.

In the VSC, various things are happening inside your body simultaneously. These various changes, known as "components," are all part of the vertebral subluxation complex. Chiropractors commonly recognize five categories of components present in the VSC. These five are:

The osseous (bone) component is where the vertebrae are either out of position, not moving properly, or are undergoing physical changes such as degeneration. This component is sometimes known as kinesiopathology.

The Nerve Component is the malfunctioning of the nerve. Research has shown that only a small amount of pressure on spinal nerves can have a profound impact on the function of the nerves. This component is scientifically known as neuropathology.

The Muscle Component is also involved. Since the muscles help hold the vertebrae in place, and since nerves control the muscles themselves, muscles are an integral part of any VSC. In fact, muscles both affect, and are affected by the VSC. This component is known as myopathology.

The Soft Tissue Component is when you have misaligned vertebrae and pressure on nerves resulting in changes in the surrounding soft tissues. This means the tendons, ligaments, blood supply, and other tissues undergo changes. These changes can occur at the point of the VSC or far away at some end point of the affected nerves. This component is also known as histopathology.

The Chemical Component is when all these components of the VSC are acting on your body, and therefore causing some degree of chemical changes. These chemical changes can be slight or massive depending on what parts of your body are affected by your subluxations. This component is often known as biochemical abnormalities.

Chiropractors have known about the dangers of subluxations for over one hundred years. Today, more scientific evidence is showing the dangers of subluxations and the health benefits of correcting them. To be truly healthy, it is vital that your nervous system be functioning free of interference from subluxations. Our goal is to allow your body to return itself to the highest level of health possible by correcting VSC. Chiropractors are the ONLY health professionals trained in the detection, location, and correction of the VSC.

This is a representation of one type of subluxation. A subluxation, as defined by the Association of Chiropractic Colleges is: "A subluxation is a complex of functional and/or structural and/or pathological articular changes that compromise neural integrity and may influence organ system function and general health." When a subluxation occurs it causes nerve interference in some portion of the body affected by those nerves. The subluxation causes changes to the structure as well as the nerves. These changes get progressively worse as time is allowed to work on the subluxated area of the spine. These changes take the form of ongoing degeneration known as "subluxation degeneration". By understanding the type and amount of changes, it is possible to reasonably estimate the time subluxations have been present in a spine. Having this information is useful in understanding the time and effort needed for correction.

Near Normal

This is a side x-ray view of the neck. As with all the pictures you will see on this page, the patient is looking to the right of the screen, so you are viewing the right side of their neck. We will call this picture a "near normal" spine. Compare this spine with the ones you will see below on this page. Notice the normal forward curve of the neck. This curve helps absorb shock. Notice how each of the disc spaces between C2 (second bone in neck) and C7 are thick and even, this again is normal. Also notice how the front portions (right on the x-ray) of each of the vertebrae (called the 'body' of the vertebrae) are fairly square with clear and well defined borders. This type of arrangement is normal in the neck. Normal vertebrae in other parts of the spine also have similar characteristics to what we see here. When subluxations occur and are left uncorrected, ongoing relentless changes occur that result in damage to the structure and function of the spine along with nerve damage and the resulting problems caused from improper nerve supply.

Phase One - Subluxation Degeneration

Phase One Subluxation Degeneration is seen in subluxations that have been present for up to twenty years. This phase is characterized with a loss or change in the normal curve in the spine. On this example you can see that the normal forward (lordotic) curve is lost. This spine even has developed a reverse curve in the neck. The disc spaces have also begun to exhibit a slight change in shape. One good point is that the bodies of each of the vertebrae (the square part in front) still exhibits clean clear borders. Segmental motion may be abnormal but overall motion is probably not affected. Chiropractic reconstructive care for a phase one can take from 6 to 18 months. More than 80% of people with Phase One Subluxation Degeneration have no pain. Therefore, if left uncorrected, phase one continues to progress with time until it eventually reaches the next phase.

Phase Two - Subluxation Degeneration

Phase two subluxation degeneration is normally seen in subluxations that have been present between 20 and 40 years. This phase has some of the same characteristics of the previous phase including a loss of normal curvature and position as well as an alteration in segmental motion. In addition, spines with Phase Two Subluxation Degeneration many times show a reduction in the patient's range of motion in that area. X-rays of a phase two begin to show calcium changes or buildup at certain levels of the spine. These changes are sometimes called by many names including spurs and arthritis. Disc spaces between the affected vertebrae are noticeably narrower and may appear to be flattening out. Although most people with Phase Two Subluxation Degeneration may not exhibit any symptoms, some may start to feel stiff or achy. Chiropractic reconstructive care for patients in phase two ranges from 1.5 years to 2.5 years. Again, if Phase Two Subluxation Degeneration is left uncorrected it slowly advances to the next phase.

Phase Three - Subluxation Degeneration

Phase Three Subluxation Degeneration is caused by subluxations that have been continuing on for between 40 and 65 years. This phase has all of the attributes of the previous phases, only worse. The curvatures are abnormal, the disc spaces are vastly decreased and changed. Calcium changes on the spine are abundant in this phase. Normally, people in phase three have a restricted range of motion and probably exhibit symptoms of some kind. In phase three the vertebrae show obvious changes and mutations in shape. Projections made of calcium, sometimes referred to as "spurs or lipping", can be readily seen on x-ray. Chiropractic reconstructive care for patients in phase three ranges from 2.5 years to 3.5 years. This does not mean that at the end of this time that any or all of the calcium changes will be gone. In many instances the body adapts to the presence of the calcium and positive changes can only be measured from a functional standpoint. As before, if Phase Three Subluxation Degeneration is left unchecked it slowly advances onward into the next phase.

Phase Four - Subluxation Degeneration

Phase four subluxation degeneration is seen with subluxations that have been raging on uncorrected or altered for over sixty five years. Phase four is a grave condition that will negatively affect the patients longevity and quality of life. The massive amount of neurological damage caused by years of subluxation that have lead to phase four are probably taking a serious toll on this person's health status. X-rays in phase four show serious severe structural changes. Vertebrae exhibit massive calcium changes, disc spaces appear blurred, and the bones themselves appear fused. In this scenario the patient will have a severe restriction of range of motion in addition to probably a number of other health issues. Reconstruction may not be possible in phase four, but care can be directed to some reduction in subluxation with the goal of improvement in the quality of life remaining. Patients in Phase Four Subluxation Degeneration have a serious situation both structurally and neurologically, but they are certainly not beyond hope. Many patients in phase four report significant improvements in symptoms, conditions, mobility and quality of life.

It should be noted that the above are common guidelines and not hard rules. Every person is dynamic and different. People degenerate at different rates and heal at different rates. The further along your spine may be with subluxation degeneration the more strenuous and time consuming your road to improvement will be. For this reason we always stress early care to stop and prevent the advancement of subluxation degeneration. Of course, if you're not under chiropractic care, the best time to start is NOW!

Each vertebra protects nerves that serve specific parts of the body. This chart lists what each level of the spine is associated with.

VertebraAreas affectedPossible related issues
C1 (Atlas)Blood Supply to Head, Bones in Face, Brain, Ears, Eyes, Heart, Inner/Middle Ear, Lungs, Pituitary Gland, Scalp & Sympathetic Nervous SystemChronic Tiredness, Dizziness, Headaches, High Blood Pressure, Migraines, Paralysis
C2 (Axis)Auditory Nerves, Eyes, Forehead, Heart, Mastoid Bones, Optic Nerves, Sinuses & TongueDeafness, Earaches, Eye Trouble, Sinus Troubles
C3Bones, Cheeks, Face, Lungs, Outer Ear, Teeth & Trifacial NerveAcne or Pimples, Bad Teeth, Bleeding Gums, Facial Nerve Pain, Neuralgia, Plaque, Spots, Tinnitus, Toothache
C4Eustachian Tube, Lips, Lungs, Mouth, Mucus Membranes & NoseAdenoids, Catarrh, Chapped Lips, Constant Cold, Cramped Lip Muscles, Hearing Loss
C5Neck Glands, Pharynx & Vocal CordsChronic Cold, Hoarseness, Laryngitis, Sore Throat
C6Neck Muscles, Shoulders & TonsilsCroup, Goiter, Pain in Upper Arm, Stiff Neck, Tonsilitis, Whooping Cough
C7Elbows, Bursa in Shoulders & Thyroid GlandBursitis, Colds, Depression, Fear, Thyroid Conditions
T1Arms, Esophagus, Forearms, Hands, Heart, Trachea & Wrists/FingersFurry feeling in Fingers, Ligament Inflammations, Lower Arm/Hand Pains, Neck Cramps, Shoulder Pains
T2Heart including Valves and Coronary Arteries & Lungs including Bronchial TubesChest Pain, Disruption in Rhythm, Fears, Heart Trouble
T3Breast, Bronchial Tubes, Chest, Heart, Lungs & PleuraAsthma, Breathing Difficulties, Bronchitis, Cough, Disruption in Chest, Influenza, Pleurisy, Pneumonia
T4Bronchial Tubes, Common Duct, Gallbladder, Heart & LungsGallbladder Troubles, Gall Stones, Headaches on One Side, Jaundice
T5Circulation, Esophagus, Heart, Liver, Solar Plexus & StomachAnemia, Arthritis, Circulatory Weakness, Disruptions in Liver, Fatigue, Low Blood, Shingles
T6Duodenum, Esophagus, Liver, Peritoneum & StomachDiabetes, Heartburn, Stomach/Digestion Problems
T7Adrenal Cortex, Appendix, Kidneys, Large Intestine, Ovaries, Pancreas, Spleen, Testes & UterusDuodenal Ulcers, Feelings of Weakness, Hiccups, Lack of Vitamins, Stomach Complaints
T8Adrenal Cortex, Gallbladder, Liver, Pancreas, Pyloric Valve, Small Intestine, Spleen & StomachSpleen Problems, Weak Immune System
T9Adrenal Cortex, Gallbladder, Ovaries, Pancreas, Small Intestine, Spleen & UterusAllergies, Nettle Rash
T10Adrenal Cortex, Appendix, Kidneys, Large Intestine, Ovaries, Pancreas, Spleen, Testes & UterusChalked-Up Arteries, Chronic Tiredness, Kidney Problems, Retaining of Salt
T11Adrenal Cortex, Adrenal Medulla, Ileocecal Valve, Kidneys, Large Intestine, Ureters, Urinary Bladder, Uterus & OvariesBoils, Eczema, Psoriasis, Raw Skin, Skin Diseases like Acne, Spots
T12Ileocecal Valve, Kidneys, Large Intestine, Lymph Circulation, Small Intestine, Urinary Bladder & UterusDisruption in Growth, Erectile Dysfunction, Infertility, Problems with Small Intestine, Rheumatism, Wind
L1Inguinal Rings, Large Intestine & UterusCirculation in Intestine, Constipation, Diarrhea, Problems with Large Intestine
L2Abdomen, Appendix, Upper Leg & Urinary BladderHyper Acidity, Problems with Appendix, Stomach Cramps, Varicose Veins
L3Bladder, Knees, Large Intestine, Prostate, Sex Organs & UterusBed Wetting, Bladder Pain, Impotency, Knee Pain, Menopause Problems, Menstruation Pains, Miscarriages
L4Lower Back Muscles, Prostate Gland & Sciatic NerveLumbago, Painful/Frequent Urination, Prostate Trouble, Sciatica
L5Ankles, Feet, Lower Legs & ProstateCirculation in Legs/Feet, Cold Feet, Leg Cramps, Swelling of Legs/Feet, Weakness in Legs
Sacrum / CoccyxAnus, Buttocks, Genitalia, Hip Bones, Prostate, Rectum, Sex Organs, Ureter & Urinary BladderAbdominal Problems, Chronic Constipation, Hemorrhoids, Itching of the Anus, Pain Sitting, Pains in Legs/Feet, Sacral Plexus, Sciatica

Overview

Regardless of age, a properly functioning nervous system, free from interference from subluxation, is essential for development and growth. Chiropractic has not only been shown to help children with a variety of health challenges, but chiropractic helps children achieve a higher level of performance and function.To find specific articles and research about a health issue or age group, please use the article topic search feature to the right of this page.

Pregnancy

Chiropractic has helped countless women throughout their pregnancies. Expecting mothers report that their problems with back and leg pain are helped, while others experience an easier birth process with chiropractic. Clinical research has documented chiropractic helping numerous cases of pregnant women whose fetus was in a less than optimal position or breech. After specific forms of chiropractic care, many pregnant women achieved improvement of the fetal position resulting in an easier birth.

Newborns, Infants and Babies

It has been well documented that the birth process can be traumatic on a young newborn’s spine. Nerve system interference, known as subluxation, created during the birth process can have a serious impact on a baby’s health and development. Many clinical studies have documented a variety of health issues in infants being resolved under chiropractic care.Adjustments given to newborns, infants or babies are very different from those given to adults. Specific adjusting techniques are used to gently correct spinal issues safely, with no discomfort. Studies have proven the effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care on the youngest of the population.

Toddlers and Pre-school

As toddlers begin to walk, a whole new dynamic of spinal function comes into play. Not only is gravity being applied to the spine differently than when the baby was crawling, but toddlers often fall when learning to walk. This is a critical time to make sure that the spine and nervous system is free from interference due to subluxation. A large volume of documented cases have shown that children with a variety of health issues lead normal and healthy lives with chiropractic. Many common childhood issues would be less common if more children had their spines checked for subluxation.Adjustments given to toddlers and children are specifically designed for their young spines. Chiropractic has been shown to be both safe and effective for this age group.

Children

Children in school are subject to a variety of spinal stresses that can create issues in their young spines and nervous systems. Not only are they sitting at a school desk for extended periods of time, but in many cases, they are carrying heavy backpacks on their developing spines. Additionally, many children are either starting sports and increasing their activity, or spending more time in front of electronic media, and the possibility of subluxation creation becomes obvious.Attention to a child’s spine and nervous system is the best way to ensure that your child grows and develops properly. Chiropractic is the one health profession that deals with the detection and correction of subluxations, thus allowing children to express better health.

Overview

Athletes want to win! Winning requires optimum performance. The ability to perform at the highest level is dependant on the proper function of the nervous system. Therefore, the athlete's nervous system must be functioning at its peak level to be competitive in any sport or activity.Chiropractic helps both professional and amateur athletes perform at their best. Chiropractic is the only profession that deals with the detection and correction of subluxations. Subluxations are when spinal vertebrae are malpositioned and create interference to the function of the nervous system.Subluxations not only create nerve interference that can alter the signals coming from the brain heading to the muscles, they can also alter the signals that return to the brain to report how the muscles are functioning. Chiropractic care focuses on the correction of subluxations, thus removing the interference to the nervous system and allowing the athlete to perform at their highest possible potential.

How an Athlete Performs

Athletic performance depends upon the ability to properly coordinate movement, endurance, and strength. These functions are all controlled by the nervous system. The brain generates the intent and sends the signals to the individual muscles to perform the activity intended.It is essential that the signals generated in the brain are transmitted clearly and cleanly to the intended muscles. Only then can those muscles perform the complex and exact movements necessary for athletic performance. Any interference with nerve signals will decrease the athlete's ability to perform at the highest competitive level.

Optimum Performance with Chiropractic

Participation in any sport requires proper function of the muscles and the nerves that control them. A nerve system free from subluxations will allow for optimal performance in any sport, both on the highest professional level, and for the weekend enthusiast.Many professional sports teams, including every team in the National Football League, have chiropractors on staff to ensure that their players can perform at their maximum level. Studies have shown that chiropractic care can result in a 14.8% increase in reaction time. For a player, this can be the difference between making the team, or making the hall of fame.Athletes depend on the highest levels of performance. Many will report having achieved personal bests in their respective sports after starting chiropractic.

Sports Injuries and Chiropractic

Both professional and amateur athletes test the limits of their bodies while performing their sports. A body that is functioning at less than 100%, due to subluxations, will be more prone to injury. This is another reason why many athletes are under regular maintenance chiropractic care. Avoiding injuries is the best way to stay in the game.In sports, injuries are sometimes unavoidable. Chiropractic helps athletes recover quickly and completely by making sure the nervous system is is free of interference therefore maximizing the body's healing abilities. If subluxations are present, the resulting nerve interference will cause the healing process to take longer, or not heal correctly.Regardless of whatever other treatments an athlete may seek for their injury, chiropractic should be included as part of the recovery regime.

Wellness and Quality of Life

Even if you are not a professional level athlete, your quality of life and enjoyment of activities depends on a properly functioning nervous system. This is why millions of people see a chiropractor on a regular basis.Movement depends both on proper structure and proper function. Chiropractic allows for better structure and function by correcting subluxations that can negatively affect both your physical structure and your nervous system function.Good health is important to everyone. Being physically fit is only one part of being truly healthy. Proper diet, proper physical activity, a good mental attitude, proper rest, and a properly functioning nervous system free of interference from subluxation are all essential for being totally healthy.No matter what your chosen sport or activity is, chiropractic can help you perform better, while increasing your enjoyment and quality of life. Simply put, chiropractic can help you - be a better you.

Chiropractors do not claim to treat infectious diseases. What chiropractic does is allow your body to function free of nerve system interference and closer to your full potential. Understanding the spread of infectious disease and how best to defend yourself can lessen the fear as well as your chances of being impacted by infectious pathogens.

Two Types of Defenses

There are generally two types of defenses to viruses and pathogens. One is external and the other is internal. An external defense is something you can do to lessen your chances of being infected, or if infected, decrease the severity of the event. An internal defence is working with your body's own immune system to heighten your natural immunity and decrease the chances of catching the disease or the impact from it should you catch it.

External Defences

External defences include measures having to do with reducing the risk of exposure. These include general cleanliness and disinfectants. Precautions such as avoiding sneezing on someone, or being sneezed on by someone is obvious. Hand washing after using public facilities, as well as the correct usage of hand sanitizer can also help. It should be noted that overuse of hand sanitizer is detrimental and can actually weaken your defenses.Masks and protective clothing are recommended for use by health professionals who are most at risk to exposure to infectious pathogens as well as for those who are already infected. Authorities in the U.S.are not recommending masks for general usage in lesser risk situations. Our clinic staff takes every precaution, and is extremely diligent to ensure that our facility and equipment are sanitized to eliminate the threat of infectious disease spread.

Internal Defences

Internal defenses are those that your body innately has. These defenses are an important line of defense against any sort of pathogen. Functioning at the highest possible level, your immune system should be nearly impenetrable to the normal exposure to pathogens that can make you sick. The key here is having your immune system functioning as close to 100% of its innate ability as possible.

Do Not Lower Your Innate Immunity

There are two ways to ensure that your defense systems are functioning properly. The first way is to not do things to yourself that can lower your internal immune system. Avoiding things such as smoking and alcohol are big factors. Avoiding stress as best you can is also important. We should also minimize unnecessary medications and over-the-counter remedies that may weaken the body's ability to defend itself. A big area that we have control over is what we eat. Processed food, refined sugar, bleached flour, and foods with additives can have a negative impact on your immune system. There is a large volume of information available on what foods negatively impact your immune system.Lack of exercise or sleep can have a negative impact on your immune system. It has been shown that people who exercise properly and get the correct amount of sleep are less likely to get sick. Daily good habits in this area can help you against the threat of infectious diseases.

Maximizing Your Innate Immunity

Your nervous system controls and coordinates all the systems in your body. Anything that interferes with proper nerve system function will have a negative impact on all your body systems including your immune system. Chiropractic is based on restoring proper nerve system function. The purpose of chiropractic care is to correct interference in your nerve system by correcting vertebral subluxations. Subluxations can cause your nerve system to function at less than optimum and therefore have a negative effect on your overall function and health.Correcting subluxations through specific scientific chiropractic adjustments help to ensure that your nerve system and, therefore, all systems in your body are functioning as close to their maximum innate potential as possible. This increases your potential to stay healthy.

The Aging Population

The aging process is inevitable. But getting on in years does not have to mean the loss in our quality of life. Good health is essential to enjoying our later years. Having good health at an older age is not a matter of chance. There are many things that contribute to good health and an enjoyable life. Chiropractic is one of those things.Whether you are old or young, your nervous system controls all the functions and systems of your body. The signals that emanate from your brain must be clear and exact when they reach the intended body part. Any interference along the pathways between the brain and the body will result in that body part not being able to function correctly.Chiropractors know that the most common cause of interference to the nerve system is from subluxations. A subluxation (a.k.a. Vertebral Subluxation) is when one or more of the bones of your spine (vertebrae) move out of position and create pressure on, or irritate spinal nerves. This pressure or irritation on the nerves then causes those nerves to malfunction and interfere with the signals traveling over those nerves. Subluxations are the main focus of what Doctors of Chiropractic work to correct.

Mobility

One of the biggest concerns that seniors express is the desire to remain mobile. Mobility means independence and allows us to participate in our daily activities.Mobility is not only dependent on the ability of your joints and muscles to move properly. Mobility is also a function of the nerves that control those muscles and joints. It is, therefore, essential that your nervous system be functioning at its maximum potential and free of interference from subluxations.People under chiropractic care report that they not only have better mobility, they also experience a better quality of life and more freedom that comes from increased mobility.

Function Better

Proper function is a key factor for experiencing good health. You cannot be truly healthy if parts of your body are not functioning at their highest potential.Most people know that the nervous system controls the function of muscles. Also important is that the nerve system controls the functions of all your internal organs and systems. It is, therefore, vital that the nerve system messages leaving the brain arrive clearly to all the organs and systems of your body.Any interference from subluxations with the signal between your brain and your internal organs will result in those organs not functioning properly. The end result is ill health.

Too Many Medications

The amount and number of medications that the senior population is taking has been called an ongoing health crisis. The elderly population consumes more medications than any other age group. Most seniors want to reduce or eliminate the amount of medications they take, but many believe that they have no choice.Chiropractic is not an alternative for medication. The goal of chiropractic is to get your body to function properly so that medications are no longer necessary. Similarly, Doctors of Chiropractic do not prescribe medications, and do not take patients off their medications. Chiropractors work to bring about a condition of health in which medications may no longer be needed. It is then up to the prescribing health professional to reduce or eliminate the drugs.

Adding Years to Life - And Life To Years

The secret to living a long and healthy life is not really a secret. Living a long and enjoyable life is assured when your body functions at its maximum potential.If you look in almost any anatomy book, you will see a description of how the body works with one basic truth. "The brain and nervous system controls and coordinates all the functions of the body." It is obvious that a nervous system free from subluxations is the best assurance for proper function.Chiropractors are experts at locating and correcting subluxations. Correcting subluxations allows you to function at your highest possible level, thus allows you to ..."... add years to life, and life to your years."

Ask the Experts

Some of the foremost experts in chiropractic have taken the time to answer common questions on video.

Does chiropractic help strength training?

Dr. Jack Barnathan explains how chiropractic can help in strength training to help you get the most out of your workouts and develop the level of strength you desire.

Do families need chiropractic care?

Dr. Eric Plasker explains why families should get a chiropractic check-up, and how regular chiropractic care can benefit your entire family's health.

Why do some people get sick more often than others?

Dr. Jeff Slocum describes how body balance affects your ability to remain healthy and the role chiropractic plays in this dynamic.

What is a subluxation?

Dr. Richard Plummer explains in basic terms the fundamentals of a subluxation and its effects on the human body.

Health Articles & Newsletter

Chiropractic Causes an Increase in Athletic Performance and Recovery Time

Some people think of chiropractic care as something you turn to when your back or neck hurts. But growing evidence suggests it may play a much bigger role in how the body performs and recovers. A case published in the first quarter 2026 issue of the Asian-Pacific Chiropractic Journal followed a physically . . .

Recovering from Whiplash: Why Completing Chiropractic Care Matters

Whiplash injuries are incredibly common, often resulting from car accidents or sudden impacts that snap the head forward and back. The result can be ongoing pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and even difficulty concentrating. What many people don’t realize is that the effects of whiplash can linger . . .

Chiropractic Care Facilitates Improvement in Constipation in Children

Constipation is a very common issue in children, affecting millions of families worldwide. While it may seem like a simple digestive problem, it can actually have a much bigger impact on a child's life. Children dealing with constipation may experience discomfort, embarrassment, and even anxiety around . . .

Chiropractic Helps Give Relief After a Whiplash Injury

Neck injuries from automobile accidents can have lasting effects long after the damaged vehicle has been repaired. Many people continue to experience chronic neck pain, headaches, stiffness, and reduced mobility for months or even years following a collision. These lingering symptoms can make everyday . . .

Chiropractic Care and Recovery After a Whiplash Injury

A motor vehicle collision can place tremendous stress on the neck, sometimes leaving problems that continue long after the crash itself. A case report published in Cureus on August 26, 2026, followed a 27-year-old man who developed neck pain, low back pain, daily headaches, lightheadedness, nausea, difficulty sleeping, brain fog, and other symptoms. . .

Birth Stress, Feeding Difficulties and the Infant Spine

The birth process can place considerable physical stress on a newborn's developing body, particularly the neck, head and jaw. Research published in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health - Chiropractic on July 1, 2026, examined the records of 145 infants from birth through 12 months of age who were brought to a chiropractic office for. . .

Chiropractic Care Linked to Increased Disc Height in the Neck

The discs between the bones of your neck play an important role in keeping your spine flexible, absorbing stress, and maintaining enough space for nerves to leave the spinal column. When those discs lose height, the spaces around the spinal nerves can become smaller and the way forces are distributed through the neck can change. A study published. . .

Chiropractic Care May Help Improve the Neck's "Internal GPS"

Most of us rarely think about how we know exactly where our head is positioned, even when our eyes are closed. This ability is called proprioception, and it is part of the nervous system's built-in awareness of where the body is in space. Proprioception helps with balance, posture, coordination, and smooth movement. Research published in the Journal. . .

Our practice newsletter shares recent research each month — call the office to be added to the list. Blog: Shoulder Pain Solutions: How Chiropractic Care Restores Movement and Relieves Discomfort.

Testimonials

In our patients’ words.

Before care

After being very active and accustomed to taking a 3 mile walk daily and going to Curves 2 times a week, I was reduced to walking with such pain in my left leg that I had to abandon these activities. At the same time I was suffering from discomfort in my neck. I was very discouraged having been led to believe that at 66 most of this pain was probably age related.

How chiropractic helped

Without going into great detail, I came to Dr. Darren Eaton complaining only of my leg pain. Not only am I back to my daily walk, moving pain free with no limp, he discovered my neck problem and has me moving a lot more freely. In the course of my treatment with Dr. Eaton I have many times asked questions about other problems and aches and pains. I feel that I have found a friend who always listens, carefully considers, and most often finds an answer.

— Anne H.

Before care

I was experiencing 3 to 4 debilitating migraines per week, where I would need to consume large doses of pain relief and/or anti-inflammatory medication just to make it into work. After experimenting with several prescription medications designed to treat migraines that provided no relief, I decided to try Chiropractic care.

How chiropractic helped

Dr. Darren discovered that I had lost all curvature in my neck, causing misalignment of discs. Dr. Darren placed me on a treatment plan, during which the frequency and the intensity of the migraines consistently decreased. I have been completely migraine free for 9 months now. Everyone at Eaton Chiropractic is not only conscientious and diligent in treating their patients, they become friends with their patients.

— Kim M.

Before care

Severe lower back pain couldn’t bend over to put my shoes on. Also a stiff neck.

How chiropractic helped

I now have virtually no back pain. It is great to be free of major pain. I sleep better, move better, and just feel better.

— Ray F.

Before care

Mid and lower back pain, neck pain, sleeplessness, and anxiety attacks.

How chiropractic helped

Neck and mid back pain are gone. We’re still working on the lower back pain, and the anxiety attacks are gone. I wish I didn’t wait so long to go see Dr. Darren. I feel that he and I as a team are making a lot of progress and I feel 100% better. Dr. Eaton is an outstanding Chiropractor and person and I’m glad to know him.

— David H.

Before care

I experienced severe back pain which made it extremely difficult to walk. Additionally, over the last few years I had discomfort in my left leg which occurred only sporadically so I never pursued treatment.

How chiropractic helped

After just several treatments with Dr. Eaton, I felt almost pain free. With continued treatments I now, for the first time in years, am pain free. I wish I had sought chiropractic treatment years ago.

— Carole G.

Before care

I have been suffering from a hiatal hernia for several years.

How chiropractic helped

After a short period of time, the pain and discomfort of this condition has been relieved. I can stop taking the acid reducer medication I was prescribed by a physician. I can now eat and drink the foods I had to avoid because of the hernia. I am also getting a better night’s sleep.

— Denise M.

Before care

I started looking into chiropractors because I am a horseback rider that has taken a few too many falls. For years I have taken Motrin or Tylenol when I hurt my back riding, to the point where over the counter medicines just weren’t working and started to give me stomach problems.

How chiropractic helped

I have been going for a few months now and I feel great. Not only does my back feel better, but my stomach does not hurt from all of the medicine I was taking to mask the pain. I am extremely happy with the care I have been getting and I would recommend it for anyone.

— Lauren O.

Before care

Prior to chiropractic care I suffered from chronic acid reflux, colitis, and lower back pain. Also my feet and my right knee gave me a lot of pain. My mental and physical health was generally poor, and for the most part I just did not feel good.

How chiropractic helped

Tremendously. Now after just a few weeks I feel great most of the time. I hardly ever take medicine for acid reflux or colitis. I don’t have ANY lower back pain and my knee is much, much better. I am able to wear shoes that I haven’t been able to tolerate for years! Thank you Dr. Eaton from the bottom of my heart!

— Suzann S.

Contact & location

Visit Eaton Chiropractic.

Eaton Chiropractic
Village South Plaza
473 South Street West, Suite 17
Raynham, MA 02767
Across from Raynham Flea Market

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Office hours

Monday9–12, 3–6
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday9–12, 3–6
ThursdayClosed
Friday9–12, 3–6
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed

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