Chiropractic is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. It emphasizes manual therapy, including spinal manipulation, to restore mobility in joints restricted by tissue injury caused by a traumatic event or repetitive stress.
Chiropractors believe that proper alignment of the body’s musculoskeletal structure can help the body heal itself without surgery or medication. They also acknowledge that lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise, and posture may impact overall health.
One of the most common conditions treated by chiropractors is lower back pain. According to research published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, patients who received chiropractic care for lower back pain reported significant improvement compared to those who received conventional medical treatment alone.
However, chiropractic care is not just limited to lower back pain. Chiropractors treat other conditions such as headaches/migraines, neck pain/stiffness, shoulder/arm pain/numbness/tingling (also known as thoracic outlet syndrome), carpal tunnel syndrome/wrist/hand/finger numbness/tingling/pain from overuse/repetitive motion injuries (such as typing), sciatica (leg pain due to nerve compression in the lower back), hip/knee/ankle/foot problems related to gait/posture issues/sports injuries/arthritis/growing pains in children.
During a typical visit with a chiropractor, an initial consultation will be conducted where they will gather information about your medical history and perform an examination. If necessary based on your condition(s) and symptoms you are experiencing X-rays or lab tests may be ordered at this time.
After reviewing all relevant data collected during the initial consultation visit if it is determined you are a candidate for Chiropractic Care then treatment options will be discussed with you along with associated costs involved if insurance coverage does not apply. Treatment typically involves manual adjustments using various techniques tailored specifically to your condition and physical needs. Each visit may last between 10-30 minutes depending on the adjustments needed during that visit.
Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed professional. However, some people may experience side effects such as soreness or stiffness after treatment which should subside within a few days but can last longer in rare cases.
In conclusion, chiropractic care is an effective alternative medicine for treating various conditions related to musculoskeletal problems with minimal risks involved. It has helped millions of people worldwide achieve optimal wellness without the use of medication or surgery. If you are experiencing any discomfort in your body, it might be worth considering visiting a chiropractor for consultation and treatment options tailored specifically to you!