Most people picture spinal adjustments when they think about what chiropractors do. Although this is a crucial component of chiropractic care, many people are unaware that chiropractors are also skilled in providing other types of care and chiropractic treatment for their patients.
The Origins of Chiropractic Medicine
Chiropractic has origins in both conventional and contemporary medicine. Instead of merely treating the symptoms of a patient’s health issues, chiropractors search for and address the underlying cause. This distinguishes chiropractic from conventional medical procedures concentrating on symptom relief through medication or surgery.
Chiropractors use x-ray machines, MRIs, and ultrasounds in addition to their own diagnostic procedures to identify the cause of a patient’s illnesses. They employ techniques including physical therapy, nutritional advice, massage treatment, and exercise to treat patients.
Education and Chiropractic Training Requirements
To become a chiropractor, four years of undergraduate study are followed by four years of chiropractic training at a recognized college or university. Students enrolling in an approved chiropractic program must then complete at least 1,200 hours of clinical training with a mentor chiropractor before being awarded a degree.
Prospective chiropractors must apply for licensure from the state where they wish to practice after completing their education and passing all state board exams. They must also provide documentation of two years of practical experience working as a chiropractor under the supervision of a licensed doctor.
The Chiropractic Approach to Patient Care
Chiropractic treatment doesn’t require the use of medicines or surgery and is non-invasive. It’s a hands-on method that emphasizes finding and treating the cause of your pain while also restoring your health. This is achieved by manipulating the spine and joints and other therapy modalities.
Chiropractors are experts in the structure of the joints and spinal column. They understand the relationship between spinal structure, function, and nervous system function and how the spine affects general health.
Physical therapy and sports rehab, sports injuries, work-related injuries, post-surgery rehabilitation, and auto-accident injuries are among the areas of specialization for some chiropractors.
What Conditions Can Chiropractic Treat?
Chiropractic care is an effective treatment for a range of neuromusculoskeletal issues, including but not limited to:
- Sports injuries
- Muscle and joint pain
- Facial pain
- Headaches and migraines
- TMJ disorders
- Pinched nerves
- Stress-related disorders
- Whiplash injuries
Some chiropractors specialize in physical therapy and rehabilitation, sports injuries, work-related injuries, post-surgery rehabilitation, and auto-accident injuries.
Common Chiropractic Treatments
Chiropractors frequently treat chronic back and neck pain and general aches and pains. However, they also effectively treat more specific disorders, including carpal tunnel syndrome, scoliosis, fibromyalgia, headaches, and digestive issues. Regular adjustments can enhance functionality, enabling patients to carry on with their daily activities free from pain.
Moreover, chiropractic treatments may include:
- Examining MRI and X-ray images to identify the source of symptoms.
- Treating back and neck pain, including sciatica, herniated discs, and degenerative disc disease.
- Treating headaches, migraines, and other head, neck, or facial pain.
- Treating spine-related sports injuries.
- Diagnosing and treating nerve conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Developing treatment programs to ensure successful patient outcomes.
Chiropractic adjustments realign the spine, ease pressure on the nerves, and restore normal nerve function without the need for medicines or surgery. Other chiropractic treatments include spinal manipulation, massage therapy, physical therapy, exercise programs, dietary counseling, lifestyle coaching, and ergonomic guidance.