Chiropractic is based on the idea that spinal misalignment causes body ailments. Chiropractic is a noninvasive treatment, meaning that it doesn't involve surgery or shots. Instead, the chiropractor applies pressure to the spine or to other joints, according to the Mayo Clinic. This pressure puts the spine back into its proper alignment, easing or eliminating symptoms. Chiropractic is usually applied as a treatment for lower back pain, neck pain and headache.
Lower Back Pain
With its focus on the spine, it's no surprise that chiropractic is often used to treat lower back pain. The chiropractor will manipulate the spine to reduce the pain. This manipulation usually involves pressure on one specific point. The chiropractor may also suggest other treatments, such as exercise, acupuncture or massage therapy. Chiropractic has been found to be an effective treatment for lower back pain when compared with other treatments like rest and medication.
Neck Pain
Neck pain is another common condition that chiropractic aims to treat. The treatment for neck pain is similar to that for lower back pain, only the neck is treated in a process called cervical manipulation. This manipulation focuses on the cervical spine--the seven vertebra that make up the neck--and the surrounding muscles. After manipulation, pain should be reduced and it should be easier to turn the head. The scientific evidence for chiropractic's effectiveness in treating neck pain is mixed.
Headaches
Chiropractic is used to treat chronic headaches. Chiropractors claim that muscle tension in the neck is the cause of many headaches. Therefore, manipulation of the neck can ease headaches. Reviews of the scientific evidence found that there was some weak evidence that chiropractic was effective in treating headache.
