What is Chiropractic? Chiropractic is a type of health
care that is used to treat musculoskeletal (joint and muscular)
problems, without the
use of drugs or surgery. The Doctor of Chiropractic, through a
procedure called an adjustment or manipulation, helps to restore range of motion and
decrease pain to joints that are not functioning properly. In
addition, many Chiropractors (including our office) use physical therapy to help decrease
muscle spasm and healing time. Chiropractors utilize case histories,
clinical examination and diagnostic testing (such as X-Rays) in
order to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
What kind of education do
Chiropractors have
Doctors of Chiropractic undergo a rigorous and
professional education equivalent to most doctors. To obtain a Doctor of Chiropractic degree one must
complete several years of prerequisite undergraduate education and
spend as many classroom hours at a fully accredited Chiropractic
College as physicians do in medical schools. Doctors are thoroughly
trained in the appropriate use of sophisticated diagnostic
equipment, including x-rays. laboratory procedures, and state of the
art investigative technology. Doctors of Chiropractic must pass four
parts of national boards, similar to the board exam of medical
doctors, as well as a licensing exam for the state in which they
choose to practice. In addition, most states require Doctors to
attend clinical continuing education programs.
Do Chiropractors prescribe medicine? Chiropractors do not prescribe
medication or perform surgery in their treatment programs.
Chiropractors use manipulation and physical therapy in order to
treat musculoskeletal conditions. However, Chiropractors are trained
in diagnosis and are able to refer you to relevant specialists when
medications or surgery are required.
What is manipulation
or an "adjustment"? A
manipulation, also known as an adjustment, is the Doctor's way
of correcting joints that are not functioning properly. In most
cases this involves the use of the Doctor's hands to apply
corrective pressure to the spine in a specific direction and
location.
Does an adjustment hurt? Under normal circumstances
Chiropractic adjustments are painless. In cases of recent trauma,
such as whiplash, mild discomfort may be experienced due to
inflammation.
How safe is Chiropractic for my child? Chiropractic is one of the safest
forms of healthcare. A child's spine is more fragile than an
adult's, and the Doctor accordingly applies only a slight pressure to
make spinal changes. Under normal circumstances, manipulation is painless and will not hurt your child. The safety of
chiropractic treatments is indicated by the fact that malpractice
insurance rates for Chiropractors are only a fraction of what
physicians pay. More than 30 million Americans choose Chiropractic
care for their children and themselves.
Chiropractic care is safe during pregnancy when provided by a doctor
that has been trained in dealing with
pregnant women. Chiropractors that have been trained to work
with pregnant women will use tables that adjust for a pregnant
woman's body and they will use techniques that avoid unneeded
pressure on the abdomen. A doctor who is versed in the needs of
women who are pregnant will also provide you with exercises and
stretches that are safe to use during pregnancy and compliment any
adjustments made to your spine.
