Chiropractic therapy is an alternative practice commonly used to treat back, neck and extremity pain. It is a hands-on practice that typically involves adjustments to the spine. While spinal manipulation is central to chiropractic therapy, chiropractors commonly use other treatments, too. While chiropractic therapy may be sought to manage very specific, tangible issues, it also can be a means to improving overall wellness.
Chiropractic Adjustments for Back Pain
Most often, patients undergo chiropractic adjustments to manage headaches and pain in the lower back and neck; lower back pain is the most common reason for seeking chiropractic care, according to the Mayo Clinic. Chiropractic adjustment involves moving joints beyond the typical range of motion, but not beyond the range the joint is anatomically capable of. Adjustments have been shown to be moderately effective for treating lower back pain, and they may permit greater overall mobility and contribute to general wellness. These results are considered comparable to standard treatments for back pain.
Adjustments for Other Conditions
One of the central principles of chiropractic therapy is that the body's structure and function are related. As such, chiropractic adjustment has been explored as an avenue for treating various other conditions, thereby improving overall wellness. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, in addition to back pain, spinal manipulation may help with migraines, neck pain, upper- and lower-extremity joint pain and whiplash. It is not effective for asthma, hypertension or menstrual pain, but studies are inconclusive as to whether it is effective for fibromyalgia, mid-back pain, PMS, sciatica and temporomandibular joint disorders. More research is needed.
Other Treatments In Chiropractic Therapy
While spinal adjustments are the most common therapy involved in chiropractic treatment, chiropractors may introduce a variety of other treatments. Several of these treatments may be viewed as contributing to overall wellness, including relaxation techniques, general exercise, dietary supplements and lifestyle counseling about weight, diet, etc.
Considerations
A qualified chiropractor must hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from a Council on Chiropractic Education accredited college. Before beginning chiropractic care, ask about the chiropractor's education and license. Discuss specific issues you hope to treat, and look for a doctor with specialized training for these conditions. Find out whether your health insurance will cover a chiropractor, and consider any additional expenses. Inform all of your health-care providers about your chiropractic treatment, and be sure the chiropractor has your complete medical history, including any supplements or prescriptions being taken.
