What is a Chiropractor?
A chiropractor is a healthcare professional focused on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, with an emphasis on treatment through manual adjustment and/or manipulation of the spine.
Most chiropractors seek to reduce pain and improve the functionality of patients as well as to educate them on how they can account for their own health via exercise, ergonomics and other therapies to treat back pain.
Chiropractic is generally categorized as alternative medicine or complementary medicine.
Types of Chiropractic Practitioner
Although the chiropractic profession has evolved, there are still some chiropractors that believe in unscientific theories. Chiropractors who hold onto beliefs that the rest of the profession has left behind are referred to as “straights”.
Before making an appointment with them, it is a good idea to find out whether a chiropractor takes a modern or straight approach. This way, a person can make an informed decision about the sort of treatment they are due to receive.
People with musculoskeletal problems may also want to consider:
· physical therapy
· exercise therapy
· other medical treatments
It is always a good idea to discuss treatment options with a doctor before deciding which route to take.
Chiropractors: Fundamental Beliefs and Goals
Chiropractors focus on the intimate relationship between the nervous system and spine, and hold true the following beliefs:
· Biomechanical and structural derangement of the spine can affect the nervous system
· For many conditions, chiropractic treatment can restore the structural integrity of the spine, reduce pressure on the sensitive neurological tissue, and consequently improve the health of the individual.
When to Consider Chiropractic Care
Painful joint and back problems can be caused by work, accidents, sports injuries, household chores, and even the stress of daily living.
A chiropractor may help if you are experiencing aching joints or muscle pain that is affecting your ability to get through the day, or preventing you from doing your favourite activities. It can also help maintain healthy spine and joint function, even if you do not have painful symptoms.
People commonly visit a chiropractor for help with:
· Back pain
· Neck pain
· Headache
· Whiplash
· Strains and sprains from daily activities
· Overuse injuries
· Work and sports-related injuries
· Arthritis
· Restricted movement in the back, shoulders, neck or limbs
How you prepare
No special preparation is required before a chiropractic adjustment.
What you can expect
At your initial visit, your chiropractor will ask questions about your health history and perform a physical exam, with particular attention to your spine. Your chiropractor may also recommend other examinations or tests, such as X-rays.
During the procedure
During a typical chiropractic adjustment, your chiropractor places you in specific
positions to treat affected areas. Often, you’re positioned lying face down on a specially designed, padded chiropractic table. The chiropractor uses his or her hands to apply a controlled, sudden force to a joint, pushing it beyond its usual range of motion. You may hear popping or cracking sounds as your chiropractor moves your joints during the treatment session.
After the procedure
Some people experience minor side effects for a few days after chiropractic adjustment. These may include headaches, fatigue or pain in the parts of the body that were treated.
Find a Chiropractor
To find a chiropractor contact chiropractic clinics such as AmeriWell Clinics and start your treatment soon.