What is Chiropractic Care?

There's nothing mysterious chiropractic. It's a natural method of health care that focuses on treating the causes of physical problems, rather than just the symptoms. Chiropractic is based on a simple but powerful premise: With a normally functioning spine and healthy lifestyle, your body is better able to heal itself. That's because the spinal cord, which is protected by the spine, is the main pathway for your nervous system. It controls feeling, movement, and function throughout your body.

Skilled, Dedicated Support

Your chiropractor's education includes at least six years of training in the sciences and health care, leading to a doctor of chiropractic (DC) degree. He or she is well qualified to evaluate your condition and provide you with dedicated care. In a nationwide Gallup study, nine of ten chiropractic patients felt their treatment was effective. Your chiropractor works to restore your health and guides you in a personal approach to overall wellness - through spinal care, exercise, good nutrition, and stress management.

Why Does the Spine Matter?

Your spine is designed to support your weight and protect your spinal cord, the vital link from your brain to the rest of your body. Since your spinal nerves affect all parts of your body, problems in your spine can cause other problems, as well.

Can Chiropractic Care Help Me?

Your doctor of chiropractic looks at your overall health - focusing not only on your spine, but also on your lifestyle. This integrated approach helps determine the most effective care for you.

History

To help identify the cause of any problems that you may have, you and your chiropractor will discuss your symptoms, your family's health history, and your lifestyle, including recreational and work-related physical activities.

Physical Exam

Physical, orthopedic, and neurological tests can help reveal the condition of your spine. Static and motion palpation tests check for tenderness, pain, swelling, and restricted range of motion.

X-rays

As "blueprints" of your spine, x-rays can reveal misaligned vertebrae, fractures, arthritis, diseases in your spine, or other problems. Additional tests will be done, if necessary.

Diagnosis

Based on the examination and findings, your chiropractor may recommend an individualized treatment program to realign your spine and improve your health. If needed, your chiropractor will consult with other medical specialists about your condition.

How Does a Chiropractor Improve My Health?

Your doctor of chiropractic is uniquely qualified to restore the health of your spine. Along with spinal adjustments and related treatments, your chiropractor emphasizes healthy everyday living.

Spinal Adjustments

After locating any misaligned vertebrae in your spine, your chiropractor applies gentle pressure and repositions the vertebrae. By reducing pressure on the nerves, these adjustments restore alignment, improve mobility, and relieve pain and stiffness.

Other Types of Chiropractic Care

Your chiropractor can help you understand the importance healthy movement, proper posture, and strengthening exercises. Methods such as moist heat, ice packs, massage, and traction may also be used. These can reduce pain, swelling, and irritation, or help restore your spine's alignment.

What Can I Do to Stay Healthy?

Smart Support

To prevent future spinal problems, you need to remember health habits. Strengthen your spine and your whole body with good posture and regular exercise. Boost your overall health by staying active, eating right, and taking time to relax.

Spinal Checkups

Just as you need regular dental exams, you also need regular spinal exams. Even if you don't have symptoms, chiropractic care is one of the best ways to help prevent spinal problems. Your doctor of chiropractic can help you and your family maintain healthy lives free of pain.