Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic is a drugless, non-surgical method of health care delivery which involves correcting biomechanical deficiencies in the joints of the body, especially in the spine, to return the body to normal homeostasis.
In addition, many doctors of chiropractic use adjunctive therapy to accelerate the body's natural healing process--such as ultrasound, hot/cold packs, electrical stimulation, traction, corrective exercise, etc.
Chiropractic is concerned with the relationship between structure, primarily the spine, and function, primarily the nervous system, of the human body because that relationship may affect restoration and preservation of health.
Qualifications for Practicing Chiropractic:
- Complete required general college-level studies.
- Obtain a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and complete clinical externship through an accredited four-year chiropractic college program.
- Pass required National Boards.
- Meet individual state requirements for licensure.
How Does a Chiropractor Improve My Health?
Your doctor of chiropractic is uniquely qualified to restore the health of your spine. Along with spinal adjustments and related treatments, your chiropractor emphasizes healthy everyday living.
The chiropractic adjustment is a skilled and specific form of manipulation. Spinal manipulation, 94% of which is provided by a doctor of chiropractic, is a treatment modality which is designed to restore normal function to a musculoskeletal joint causing disability and/or pain. It consists of providing a specific maneuver to the affected joint (articulation) to achieve this end. Its purpose is to mobilize the joint, thereby returning it to its normal function and allowing other parts of the musculoskeletal system -- which often compensate to the improper functioning joint(s) -- to return to their normal relationships and function as well.
Some of the beneficial effects of spinal manipulation and the restoration of normal motion, function and biomechanics which follow such treatment include:
- Relief of pain
- Reduction in joint swelling
- Relaxation of tight muscles
- Restoration and maintenance of ligament and muscle flexibility
- Restoration of normal muscle tone and coordination
- Restoration and maintenance of normal joint sensation and proprioception
- Improved alignment of new connective tissue
- Prevention of scar tissue shortening and chronic stiffness
- Promotion of quicker, more effective healing
- Reduction in the risk of re-injury and degeneration
(Slosberg, M. Validating Chiropractic: Documenting the Scientific Basis of Clinical Practice [Seminar], Chicago, 1993.)
Can Chiropractic Care Help Me?
Your doctor of chiropractic looks at your overall health—focusing not only on your spine, but also on your lifestyle. This integrated approach helps determine the most effective care for you.
History
To help identify the cause of any problems you may have, you and your chiropractor will discuss your symptoms, your family's health history, and your lifestyle, including recreational and work-related physical activities.
Physical Exam
Physical, orthopedic, and neurological tests can help reveal the condition of your spine. Static and motion palpation tests check for tenderness, pain, swelling, and restricted range of motion.
X-rays
As "blueprints" of your spine, x-rays can reveal misaligned vertebrae, fractures, arthritis, diseases in your spine, or other problems. Additional tests will be done, if necessary.
Diagnosis
Based on the examination and findings, your chiropractor may recommend an individualized treatment program to realign your spine and improve your health. If needed, your chiropractor will consult with other medical specialists about your condition.
Skilled, Dedicated Support
Your chiropractor's education includes a minimum of six years of training in the sciences and health care, leading to a doctor of chiropractic (DC) degree. He or she is well qualified to evaluate your condition and provide you with dedicated care. In a nationwide Gallup study, nine of ten chiropractic patients felt their treatment was effective. Your chiropractor works to restore your health and guides you in a personalized approach to overall wellness—through spinal care, exercise, good nutrition, and stress management.
Research Shows Spinal Manipulation Is Safe and Effective for Treating Low Back Pain
Scientific research is showing what millions of chiropractic patients already know:
- Spinal manipulation is more effective than other treatments for low back pain.
- Chiropractic adjustments take less time and the benefits last longer.
- Chiropractic adjustments are safe.
- Chiropractic care costs less and results in fewer lost workdays.
These findings are supported by studies conducted by the U.S. government, by state and foreign governments, by medical doctors, and by private corporations, as well as by doctors of chiropractic themselves.
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