Chiropractic is a field in healthcare that emphases the relationship between the structure of the body (more specifically, the spine), and its function.
In most cases, chiropractic offers treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, including health issues related to bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues (e.g., tendons, ligaments, and cartilage).
The term “chiropractic” is a combination of two Greek words: ‘chier,’ meaning ‘hand,’ and ‘praxis,’ meaning ‘done by hand.’ The chiropractic system is a form of alternative medicine. Its approach differs from conventional medicine in terms of diagnosis, classification, and treatment of health problems.
Chiropractic has three basic concepts:
- The human body has a powerful ability to self-heal
- The structure of the body (more specifically, that of the spine), and its function have a close relationship that influences overall health
- Chiropractic therapy outlines goals of normalizing the above relationship in order to facilitate healing
Treatments offered by chiropractors
When you seek chiropractic treatment, the first thing the chiropractor does during your first appointment is take your medical history. You undergo a physical examination that focuses mostly on the spine.
The chiropractor may also perform other tests and examinations such as x-rays. If the test results determine that you are a suitable candidate for chiropractic treatment, the chiropractor develops a plan for your Columbus chiropractor Active Edge therapy.
In the course of the chiropractic therapy, the practitioner may perform one or two adjustments. Also referred to as manipulation treatment, adjustments are manual therapies that the practitioner delivers by hand, mainly to the spine. Manipulation treatments involve application of a sudden but controlled force to joins.
Chiropractic adjustments improve the quality and range of motion in the area of concern. You can also receive other types of manipulation from other healthcare professionals. These include:
- Sports medicine doctors
- Physical therapists
- Physical medicine specialists
- Massage therapists
- Osteopathic physicians or orthopedists
- Doctors of naturopathic medicine
- Doctors of osteopathic medicine
It is important to note that chiropractors perform 90% of the manipulative treatments in the US. Be sure to let your healthcare providers know about any chiropractic or similar treatment you receive. This helps them integrate all your treatments.
In addition to the manipulation treatments, chiropractors offer other treatment options including:
- Massage therapy
- Mobilization
- Ultrasound
- Heat and ice
- Rehabilitative exercise
- Electrical stimulation
- Counseling about diet, weight loss, and other lifestyle factors
- Acupuncture
- Magnetic therapy
- Homeopathy
- Dietary supplements
The bottom line
The body of research in the chiropractic field continues to grow. As more studies are done, the scientific understanding of this form of alternative medicine becomes stronger. One of the main areas of research is the fundamental science of bodily functions at the level of cells and nerves and the best time to offer specific chiropractic treatments.
When considering a chiropractor, give preference to a practitioner that has a good track record with previous patients to maximize your chances of getting effective treatment. Don’t be shy to ask questions to determine whether or not the chiropractor you are considering is the right fit for you.
