What is Chiropractic

Chiropractic is the branch of the healing arts based on the understanding that good health depends on a normally functioning nervous system and musculoskeletal system.

The term “Chiropractic” comes from the Greek word “chiropracktikos,” meaning “effective treatment by hand.” Chiropractic stresses the idea that the cause of many disease processes might begin with the body’s inability to adapt to its environment. It looks to address these diseases without the use of drugs or chemicals, but by locating and working on improperly functioning areas of the musculoskeletal system. The conditions which doctors of chiropractic address are varied, and it is best to consult with your chiropractor to determine if your discomfort can be improved with care.

The focus of treatment in our office is geared toward the management of musculoskeletal pain. Accidents, falls, stress, tension, overexertion and countless other factors can result in alterations of function within the joints of the spinal column, causing irritation to spinal nerves and the supportive muscles.

These irritations are often the cause of the stiffness and soreness that brings patients to seek chiropractic help. Chiropractic teaches that reducing or eliminating the irritation to the muscles, joints, and spinal nerves will allow your body to operate more efficiently and comfortably. Doctors of chiropractic use the same time-honored methods of consultation, case history, physical examination, laboratory analysis, and x-ray examination when appropriate as any other doctor. Additionally, they provide a careful chiropractic structural and functional analysis paying special attention to the spine. The examination of the spine to evaluate structure and function is what makes chiropractors different from other health care professionals managing similar conditions. The exam, in addition to your personal case history, physical evaluation and possibly x-rays, will be used to diagnose your condition and will determine your course of treatment.

Doctors of chiropractic do refer patients for other medical care when those interventions are needed or when a patient does not respond as quickly or positively to treatment as expected. Chiropractors are part of your medical team and work with their partners in other medical disciplines to help their patients get the best results.