Chiropractors & Acupuncture

Chiropractors diagnose and treat disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system, which includes the bones, joints, muscles and entire skeleton. For example, Advanced Sports & Family Chiropractic & Acupuncture notes that when a chiropractor diagnoses a misaligned joint, she has several tools that will help to return the joint to its correct alignment. In addition to manual manipulation, a chiropractor can use acupuncture as a treatment tool.

Chiropractic Acupuncture

Chiropractic acupuncture is a chiropractic sub-specialty that focuses on the relationship between the nervous system, spinal system and the body’s energy pathways, or meridians. The American Board of Chiropractic Acupuncture notes that chiropractic acupuncturists use acupuncture to treat patients’ health conditions and injuries. The chiropractor can choose to combine acupuncture with other treatment modalities, if needed.

Forms of Acupuncture

A chiropractor can treat her patients with several forms of acupuncture. Arizona-based Brown Chiropractic & Acupuncture reports that needle-based acupuncture is one treatment tool. In addition, chiropractors can stimulate acupuncture points with laser or magnetic implements. Acupuncture points can also receive electrical stimulation or acupressure, which involves finger pressure over the acupuncture points.

Acupuncture for Back Pain

Acupuncture has been shown to provide relief for chronic back pain, a condition commonly treated by chiropractors. MayoClinic.com reports that when acupuncture needles are properly applied by a trained practitioner, a patient experiences reduced back pain. As a sidelight, a 2009 study by Dr. D.C. Cherkin in the Archives of Internal Medicine noted that patients achieved these benefits whether acupuncture was actually applied or was simulated through toothpick pricks at acupuncture sites.

Chiropractor Certification

Chiropractors who desire chiropractic acupuncture certification must complete 300 hours of acupuncture training from an approved specialty college. The American Board of Chiropractic Acupuncture has prepared a Diplomate Acupuncture Examination, which includes both written and practical components. An applicant must demonstrate his ability to locate acupuncture points, maintain needle hygiene and diagnose and treat a condition using acupuncture techniques.

Considerations

If chiropractic acupuncture treatment appears to be a viable option, confirm that your chiropractor has received chiropractic acupuncture certification through the American Board of Chiropractic Acupuncture. If your practitioner cannot provide this documentation, or otherwise won't comply with your request, seriously consider your treatment options.