Chiropractic is a healthcare profession focusing on disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.
Doctors of Chiropractic are referred to as chiropractors or chiropractic physicians.
Chiropractic care primarily treats neuromusculoskeletal complaints, including:
- back pain
- neck pain
- pain in joints, arms, legs
- headaches
Chiropractic care involves a complete patient history, examination, diagnosis and treatment. Chiropractors have broad diagnostic skills and are trained to provide therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises, as well as nutritional, dietary and lifestyle counseling.
The primary treatment modality utilized by doctors of chiropractic is the adjustment and manipulation of the spine and articulations of the body. They are also skilled in soft tissue treatment therapies.
History
Chiropractic developed as a defined profession in the late 1800's in the United States. It has since spread throughout the world and is recognized and regulated by law in approximately 40 countries.
The profession has evolved to be a cost-effective, efficient healthcare profession that deals primarily with neuromusculoskeletal issues. There is evidence that shows that chiropractic is extremely effective for managing low back and neck pain through conservative non-surgical methods.
Numerous articles have been published in international, peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating the efficacy and cost effectiveness of chiropractic care for a variety of conditions.
Research Studies on Chiropractic
A Comparison of Osteopathic Spinal Manipulation with Standard Care for Patients with Low Back Pain
Cost-Effectiveness of Medical and Chiropractic Care for Acute and Chronic Low Back Pain
Neurophysiology of Spinal Manipulation
Spinal Manipulation, Medication, or Home Exercise With Advice for Acute and Subacute Neck Pain
Chiropractic: A Profession at the Crossroads of Mainstream and Alternative Medicine