What Does a Chiropractor Do, Anyway?
By Sara Butler
Don’t feel foolish if you don’t know exactly what it is that a chiropractor does. If it’s recently been recommended you see a chiropractor or you’re trying to research what it is that chiropractors do before you go see one, here are a few of the basics to get you started!
A Chiropractic Definition
Simply put, chiropractors are health care professionals who specialize in the treatment and diagnosis of neuromuscular disorders. They receive special training in manual adjustment techniques which they then use to adjust your spine and eliminate misalignments in the spine that may be causing health problems.
The Objective
The goal of chiropractic treatment is to reduce any pain a patient may be experiencing as well as improve the function of the body. Chiropractors are also big believers in patient education. They don’t just want to be one of your go-to health care providers; they want to be your partner in health. By educating you about maintaining your health, exercise, and even ergonomics they can help you to improve your quality of life and get you on the road to wellness.
The Spine and Nervous System Connection
Chiropractors believe there is a relationship between the spine and the nervous system and any structural or biomechanical issue affecting your spine will also have an impact on the function of your nervous system.
Chiropractors use the methods they are trained in to help eliminate any issues impacting your spine and nervous system in order to not just restore function but also restore you overall health. When you have regained normal mobility in your spine, then it will eliminate or reduce nerve irritation and restore normal function.
What Can Chiropractors Treat?
Most people think chiropractors simply treat back and neck pain, but it goes way beyond that! Chiropractors can treat:
- Repetitive Injuries
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Sciatica
- Lower back pain
- Sport injuries
- Auto accident injuries
- Pain from arthritis
- Neck pain
Most of the work a chiropractor will do involves treatment of disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system, but they are also trained to diagnose and treat other issues related to your nervous system and musculoskeletal system.
They often use methods such as cold therapy, hot therapy, strengthening and stretching exercise regimens, nutrition and massage to treat health issues in conjunction with manual spinal manipulation techniques.
So, does that clear a few things up for you? Just remember, if you ever have any questions about your treatment or what a chiropractor does, ask your chiropractor during your next visit to The Joint Chiropractic!