The word “chiropractic” is derived from the Greek words “cheir” meaning “hands” and “praxis” (practice). So it mostly deals with “hands-on” therapy. Chiropractic treatment is mainly used as a pain relief substitute for the nervous, muscular and skeletal system; and for connective tissue such as cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.
Chiropractors are health care professionals who are concerned with patients who have neuromusculoskeletal conditions involving nerves, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones. They apply techniques like spinal adjustments and manipulation amidst others to tend to a patient’s health issues like neck and back pain. This manipulation is often used to reestablish movement to joints obstructed by the injury. The main focus of this manipulation is often spine care. The injury may be a result of repetitive stress, falling, or sitting without back support.
These professionals assert that when the spinal joints are misaligned, it tampers with a person’s neuromuscular system and can lead to a low level of immunity and resistance to disease. It also leads to other poor health conditions. This theory was named “vertebral subluxation complex”. Therefore, they believe that when the body’s musculoskeletal structure is aligned appropriately, most notably the spine, the body will be able to heal itself without having to undergo surgery or medication. However, not every chiropractor believes in this anymore. The practice has evolved such that they no longer hold on to this claim. The people who still believe in the vertebral subluxation complex are often referred to as “straights” while those who have moved on from this approach are referred to as “modern”. The modern chiropractors see themselves as “solely musculoskeletal practitioners with a focus on spinal pain”.
In light of this, it is advisable that before you schedule an appointment; find out whether the chiropractor adopts a modern or straight approach. So, you can make know beforehand about the sort of treatment to expect.
How do chiropractors work? Before commencing treatment, they would evaluate a patient’s medical condition by going over his/her medical history, listening to the symptoms seen by the patient, and even touching to pinpoint the affected area. A chiropractor may also analyze the patient’s spine, reflexes, and posture. The treatment itself involves neuromusculoskeletal therapy – adjusting the spinal column and other joints of the patient by hand.
Moreover, the chiropractor may manipulate the joints by using an exact, swift pressure to boost the range and functionality of motion to an optimum state. The professional may also include additional treatments; s/he may apply a hot or cold compress to the injured area of the patient, use electrical stimulation, and adopt relaxation techniques. Chiropractic may also be combined with good exercise, good nutrition, and good sleeping habits.
Benefits and Risks of Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care and spinal manipulation are generally perceived as safe and effective forms of treatment for acute, chest pain, low back pain, neck pain, and headaches. The moderate pressure used by both chiropractors and deep tissue massage practitioners can serve as effective treatments for osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. However, spine manipulation may cause mild side effects, including heightened pain, muscle stiffness, headache, tiredness, and discomfort. Patients with conditions such as osteoporosis, inflammatory arthritis, spinal cord compression, or people who are using blood-thinning medications are at serious risk if they undergo spinal manipulation. It is not advisable for them to undergo this surgery. Furthermore, people who have a cancer history should ensure they first get an approval or a check-in with their medical doctor before they opt for chiropractic therapy or undergoing spinal manipulation. Always consult your medical doctor or health care provider to ensure that whatever condition you are in will benefit from chiropractic or other pain relief substitutes.
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