Chiropractic
Aligning the Spine, Restoring Health
Chiropractic is a healthcare profession that focuses on diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, with an emphasis on manual adjustment and spinal manipulation. Chiropractic care is based on the concept that proper alignment of the spine and musculoskeletal structure enables the body to heal itself without the need for medication or surgery.
Chiropractors are licensed practitioners who use hands-on techniques to adjust misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations. They aim to improve the function of the nervous system, reduce pain, and enhance overall health and mobility.
What Do Chiropractors Do?
Chiropractors primarily treat conditions related to the spine, joints, muscles, and the nervous system. The most common reason people visit a chiropractor is for back pain, but chiropractic care is also effective for neck pain, headaches, sports injuries, joint pain, and even certain types of sciatica.
During an initial visit, a chiropractor will:
Take a detailed health history
Perform a physical examination
Possibly request X-rays or MRI scans to assess spinal alignment
Develop a personalized treatment plan
Treatment typically involves spinal adjustments, where the chiropractor uses controlled force to improve joint mobility. These adjustments may produce a “cracking” or “popping” sound, which is simply the release of gas bubbles from the joint.
Conditions Treated by Chiropractors
Chiropractic care is not limited to just back problems. Some common conditions treated include:
Low back pain
Neck pain and stiffness
Tension headaches and migraines
Herniated or bulging discs
Sciatica (radiating pain down the leg)
Shoulder, hip, and knee joint pain
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Poor posture and spinal curvature (e.g., scoliosis)
Some chiropractors also treat pediatric issues like colic, and developmental misalignments, and support prenatal and postnatal care.
Key Techniques in Chiropractic Treatment
Spinal Manipulation (Chiropractic Adjustment)
The most common technique, it involves applying quick and controlled pressure to specific joints in the spine to correct misalignment, restore motion, and reduce nerve irritatio
Mobilization Techniques
Unlike the high-velocity thrusts used in spinal manipulation, mobilization involves slower, gentle movements to stretch and mobilize joints and soft tissues.
Lifestyle and Nutritional Counseling
Chiropractors also educate patients on proper ergonomics, posture, physical activity, and dietary habits to support long-term spinal health.