Chiropractic: An unfamiliar term for treating familiar pain

The term “chiropractic” refers to care for the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. In layman’s terms, this includes treatment of neck pain, back pain, joint pain and even pain caused by headaches. The history of chiropractic goes back as far as 1895, but the practice has seen particular highs in popularity over the past 20 years.  You’ll know a doctor of chiropractic by the term “chiropractor.” A chiropractor is a medical professional who specializes in treating the aforementioned conditions through specific holistic and manual practices rather than by medication. The most common technique used by chiropractors is spinal manipulation (or spinal adjustment).

Is It Painful?

Although chiropractic treatment is often referred to by the frightening term “back-cracking,” there is no actual pain involved in a spinal adjustment. Some patients will experience a slight soreness or aching after treatment, similar to that experienced after exercise, but this is generally seen as only a mild discomfort and often resolves within a day or two.

Why Do Chiropractors Adjust Your Spine?

The treatment is used to restore mobility to joints that have become restricted as a result of tissue damage. Many factors in your life can cause tissue damage, including minor issues such as repetitive stress or improper lifting, and major concerns like arthritis or sciatica.

How Does Chiropractic Treatment Work?

Chiropractic treatment can be used in one of two ways: on its own or in conjunction with other treatment methods.

For issues such as lower back pain or back pain in general, regular visits to a chiropractor for adjustments and therapy may be enough to stop the pain and prevent it from recurring. However, for more serious conditions in which medication, surgery or another treatment option has already been prescribed, chiropractic care can be a great complement in maintaining overall health.

What Can I Expect From a Visit to the Chiropractor?

A chiropractic visit will start with a manual or, in some cases, diagnostic examination to determine your condition and find the source of your pain.

It’s a common misconception that chiropractors will find a way to treat any condition - like any medical professional, chiropractors are trained to recognize specific signs and symptoms and will not attempt to treat anything that lies beyond the scope of their field. If, at the end of your diagnosis, a chiropractor cannot treat you, he or she will be able to refer you to the right practitioner.

Putting yourself in the hands of a chiropractor is a great step toward maintaining your health. Talk to a professional and find out if treatment is right for you.