Chiropractic recognizes that the body has a
powerful inner ability to heal itself. It recognizes that the master
system of the body is the nervous system which controls all cells and
organs in the body. When there is interference to the nervous system,
loss of function and disease of the body will result.
Chiropractic works to help remove interference to the nervous system to
allow proper communication of the brain to the body through the nerves.
It is common for this disruption of communication to occur when bones of
the spine become misaligned. This is because these misaligned bones
will irritate surrounding tissues and cause pressure on the nerves in
and around the joints. This will cause interference to the normal flow
of energy through the nerves.
Chiropractic is very effective in helping neuromusculoskeletal
complaints which are often caused by irritation of the nerve system.
Some of these include but are not limited to neck pain, back pain, pain
in the joints of the arms or legs and headaches.
Chiropractors practice a natural, drug-free hands on approach to health
care. This will include a patient examination, diagnosis and treatment.
Chiropractors are also trained to provide therapy modalities and
recommend therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises. They also provide
dietary, nutritional and lifestyle counseling.
The most common procedure which chiropractors perform is a chiropractic
adjustment or spinal manipulation. The purpose of this procedure is to
restore motion and alignment to spinal bones and other joints of the
body that become misplaced. They do this by applying a controlled force
into the joint that is restricted.
Joints can become injured through a single traumatic event, such as a
car accident or improper lifting. They can also become injured through
repetitive stress, such as through improper lifting or sitting in an
awkward position over a period of time. In addition to the joints
becoming misaligned, the tissues around the joint can become inflamed
and damaged. This can result in pain and loss of function. Manipulation
or adjustments help to restore proper motion and allow the surrounding
tissues to heal. For example chiropractic adjustments can help to reduce
inflammation and muscle spasm of muscles that are often affected.
Chiropractic is often the primary method of treatment of conditions such
as low back pain. Chiropractic can also compliment treatment of
conditions where other medical treatment is required. Chiropractic will
focus on helping the musculoskeletal component of the condition
involved. Chiropractors work with other health care professionals to
coordinate and provide the health care needed.
Chiropractic Physicians work to assess patients through clinical
examination, diagnostic imaging and laboratory testing. These diagnostic
tests help to determine when chiropractic is needed and when it is not.
These tests also help to determine what will be the most effective
treatment for the patient. Chiropractors are trained to refer to other
health care providers when needed.