What Is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic Treatment

When asked "what do chiropractors do?" most people would say that they treat back pain or fix bad necks.

Although this is true, the scope of chiropractic is far wider than you might think.  It is true that chiropractors spend most of their time working on the joints and muscles of the spine, but the effect that this has is far greater than just relieving aches and pains.

Studies have shown that chiropractic care not only improves the function of the joints and muscles, but also the nervous system as a whole.  As the nervous system controls all processes in the body, an improvement in its function can have profound effects on health.

Our chiropractors firmly believe that correction and prevention are better than short-term pain relief.  We feel it is in the best interest of our patients to offer a complete solution to your problem, wherever possible.

Therefore, our chiropractors take time to thoroughly assess not only what your problem is, but also why it is there. With this information, we can design personal corrective programs to suit you. These consist of two main areas of focus. These are:

  • 1. What we can do to help you (in the form of chiropractic treatment)
  • 2. What you can do for yourself (in the form of exercises and stretches, as well as lifestyle modifications)

Chiropractors' main focus is on the detection and correction of vertebral subluxations, which are misalignments or movement restrictions in the joints of the spine. These misalignments can put pressure on your nervous system resulting in pain and stiffness, as well as deterioration of general health. Misalignments can be corrected via chiropractic adjustment of the spine. A chiropractic adjustment involves applying a specific, gentle force, using the hands, to the affected joint. This helps the joint to move more freely which relieves the pressure on the nerves, allowing your body's innate healing processes to work.

Our chiropractors may use some techniques which work on the soft tissues of your body; your muscles, ligaments and tendons.  In some cases, it may also be recommended that you have massage treatment in addition to chiropractic treatment.