What is a Chiropractor?
Chiropractor is a term recognised both in the UK and in the USA. Chiropractors are specially educated in treating the joints and muscles of the body with their hands.
Who do Chiropractors treat?
Chiropractors treat problems ranging from headaches to foot pain, from posture problems to sports injuries, from arthritis to growing pains and from birth injuries to injuries caused by car accidents. The treatment is suitable for all ages including babies and pregnant women (although you should always consult your doctor first). Originally chiropractors maintained that all ailments were a symptom of mechanical displacement of segments of the spinal column and that as such these ailments could be treated with manipulation of the spinal column.
Most modern chiropractors focus on identifying and correcting the "source" of your problem, rather than just eliminating your symptoms. As a result, chiropractic care helps the body heal itself from a wide range of conditions such as sciatica, neck pain, back pain, arthritic pain, headaches and much more. Children also see chiropractors for treatment of problems ranging from sports injuries to colic.
What treatment techniques does a Chiropractor use?
The primary tool of the chiropractor is the manipulation of joints and soft tissue with their hands. Some chiropractors have also integrated modern technological advancements into their treatments such as ultrasound machines. If your chiropractor finds a problem with your vertebrae, your spine may be manipulated or adjusted. The adjustments are usually made by hand, the doctor will apply pressure to the areas of your spine or body that are out of alignment or not moving properly.
Where do Chiropractors work?
Around 70 percent of chiropractors are in solo practice. The remainder are in group practice or work for other chiropractors. A small number teach, conduct research at chiropractic institutions, or work in hospitals and clinics.
What training does a Chiropractor do?
Chiropractors will typically study for approximately six to eight years including four years at a chiropractic college. Chiropractors study anatomy, bacteriology, pathology, physiology, biochemistry, pediatrics, geriatrics, spinal manipulation, x-ray, nutrition, physical diagnosis, physical therapeutics and more. A chiropractor must also complete a clinical internship or externship, then pass rigorous national and state licensing examinations.
How can I get treated by a Chiropractor?
The majority of clinics will book you an appointment over the phone, this will lead to an initial consultation where your needs will be assessed. Occaisionally it is possible to be referred by your doctor for treatment with a chiropractor although this will depend on several factors including your docotors position on chiroprators and their local availability.
