Introduction
Chiropractic is derived from the Greek word "cheir", for hand, and "praxis", for practice. Chiropractic focuses on the relationship between the spinal column and the nervous system of the body and uses hands-on manipulation of the spine and other structures to promote proper function of these systems. Many cultures incorporate spinal manipulation as part of a greater healing practice.
A chiropractor will "influence function through structure" by adjusting spinal joints to promote proper nerve function. The practice focuses on manual procedure in lieu of surgery or drugs. The most common approach is the correction and maintenance of subluxations.
The spinal column is composed of twenty-four vertebrae separated by discs. Nerve impulses travel to and from the brain via the spinal cord, which is encased in a tunnel of interlocking bones known as the spinal column. Vertebrae occasionally become displaced and exert pressure on the nerves, hindering function and inducing pain and weakness. These subluxations, or misalignments of the spine, interfere with nervous system function, leading to a variety of ailments.
A History
Chiropractic was introduced in 1895 by Daniel David Palmer. A lay healer, Palmer performed a spinal manipulation on a local janitor named Harvey Lillard who had lost his hearing seventeen years prior due to a vertebra misalignment in his upper spine. Using a sharp thrust, Palmer repositioned the thoracic vertebrae and Lillard's hearing returned.
Palmer developed the idea of joint-oriented nerve interference and later coined the term "Chiropractic", based on his theory. In 1897, he formed the first chiropractic college, the Chiropractic School and Cure, and the first United States state licensing law was passed in 1913.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Chiropractic is used primarily to treat musculoskeletal disorders such as sprains, lower back pain, and peripheral joint injuries. It has also been used to treat arm pain, arthritis, leg pain, migraine headaches, and tension headaches.
Some chiropractors also treat conditions involving the knees, wrists, elbows, ankles, and other joints.
Typical Session(s)
During your first session, your chiropractor will discuss your history as well as take a physical exam. This primarily involves a hands-on palpation of the spine to determine its current state. An X-ray may also be taken.
Once enough information has been gathered, your chiropractor will use various forms of treatment that focus on hands-on manipulation of the musculoskeletal system. Emphasis is placed on the muscles and joints of the back but can include others as well.
One or more of the following methods may be used:
AdjustmentAlso referred to as high-velocity manipulation, an adjustment involves a low amplitude thrust lasting one tenth of one second. The highly controlled force is applied quickly in an effort to restore proper joint motion. They are usually painless.
An audible snapping or popping sound will be heard, caused by the release of tiny gas bubbles being stored in the fluid-filled space in the joint from lack of motility.
Cranial Manipulation
Involves a gentle manipulation of the bones of the skull. This technique is used to adjust skull bones or jaw bones that are misaligned or to promote cerebrospinal fluid circulation.
Electrical Stimulation
Electrical stimulation uses a pad placed on the body through which electrical current is passed and should be considered a form of deep tissue massage. The stimulation promotes the movement of body fluids from the tissue and around a sprain to relieve swelling (edema) that has established around the injury.
Heat Packs
Used for muscle relaxation and sedation
Ice Packs
Used for pain control.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound directs sound vibrations into tissue. This "micro-massage" promotes circulation, releases stored toxins, and relieves edema and electrolytes that have concentrated around an injury. This technique proves most effective in cases involving bursitis, "frozen shoulder", and tendinitis.
Traction
Involves stretching or lengthening the spine to relieve pressure on subluxations. Most studies, however, have shown that traction is of little or no benefit to the healing process.
Miscellaneous
Your chiropractor may also employ massage and advise on diet and exercise changes to promote the healing process.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Chiropractic should not be undertaken by those who have or have had an aneurysm, bone infection and fracture, bone tumours, or vertebral artery narrowing.
Contacts
International Chiropractors Association
1110 N. Globe Road, Suite 1000
Arlington, Virginia
22201
Tel.: 703.528.5000
Toll-Free: 1.800.423.4690
Fax: 703.528.5023
Web: www.chiropractic.org
Email: chiro@chiropractic.org
The World Chiropractic Alliance
2950 North Dobson, Suite 1
Chandler, Arizona
85224
Toll-Free: 1.800.347.1011
Web: www.choicemall.com/worldchiropractic
British Chiropractic Association (BCA)
17 Blagrave Street
ReadingNr Bicester
Berkshire
RG1 1QB
England
Tel.: +44 (0) 118 950 59 50
Fax: +44 (0) 118 958 89 46
Web: www.chiropractic-uk.co.uk
Email: enquiries@chiropractic-uk.co.uk
Ailment / Situation Listing
