A chiropractor is an allied health professional, diagnosing and treating conditions that impact your musculoskeletal system (muscles and bones). In particular, They particularly pay special attention to areas affecting the spine. Chiropractic therapy involves various methods to restore normal joint function, ease pain, and enhance general health through spinal manipulation or adjustments.
The Philosophy of Chiropractic:
The idea underlying chiropractic care is that the body is naturally capable of healing itself. The nervous system, which extends throughout the body from the spinal cord, mostly coordinates this ability to recover. The neurological system may be hampered by a misaligned or constricted spine, a condition known as vertebral subluxation, which can result in discomfort, inflammation, and limited mobility.
What Does a Chiropractor Do?
Considering the patient’s whole medical history, lifestyle, and general well-being, chiropractors practice holistic medicine. Treating the symptoms is not their only objective but choose to also focus on finding and resolving the underlying reason for the patient’s pain.
Here’s a breakdown of what a chiropractor does:
- Examination and Diagnosis:
- Physical Exam: Examining posture, range of motion, muscle strength, and reflexes, chiropractors do a comprehensive physical.
- Neurological Exam: Testing sensation, reflexes, and muscle strength, they assess how well the nervous system works.
- Diagnostic Imaging: To grasp what is happening, a chiropractor may request X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to have a better view of the impacted area.
- Medical History Review: The treatment of a patient depends on knowing their medical history, which includes prior surgeries, injuries, and chronic illnesses.
- Treatment:
- Spinal Manipulation (Adjustments): This makes up the core of chiropractic treatment. Chiropractors correct joints, lower nerve pressure, and increase the range of motion with exact, regulated force.
- Mobilisation Techniques: Function and flexibility of the joints are restored by gentle stretching and mobility exercises.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Massage, trigger point therapy, and soft tissue mobilisation using instruments all serve to release tension, ease muscles, and increase circulation.
- Therapeutic Exercises: Programmes of customised exercise help to build muscles, correct posture, and develop flexibility, therefore reducing the risk of future injuries.
- Lifestyle Advice: Chiropractors offer advice on diet, stress reduction, ergonomics, and other lifestyle elements that can affect the health of the musculoskeletal system.
- Beyond Back Pain:
Chiropractic care goes much beyond the well-known treatment of back pain. Chiropractors are qualified to handle:
- Frequent headaches and neck pain
- Sciatic nerves
- Joint pain in the ankles, knees, hips and shoulders
- Syndrome of the carpal tunnels
- Accidents in sports
- Care during pregnancy and delivery
- Conditions of the musculoskeletal system in children
Benefits of Chiropractic Care:
- Pain Relief: Because chiropractic adjustments deal with the underlying mechanical issues in the spine and joints, they successfully relieve pain.
- Improved Mobility: More range of motion and flexibility follow from restoring correct joint function.
- Reduced Inflammation: Chiropractic therapy lowers inflammation by increasing circulation and releasing pressure on nerves.
- Enhanced Athletic Performance: Sportsmen can perform at their best and avoid injuries by having their biomechanics improved by chiropractic therapy.
- Holistic Wellness: The emphasis placed in chiropractic on preventive care and lifestyle changes benefits general health and well-being.
Commonly Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care:
- Is chiropractic care safe?
Indeed, when done by a licensed and experienced practitioner, chiropractic care is safe. Selecting a chiropractor with a great deal of experience and training is critical. Chiropractors are nationally registered healthcare workers in Australia.
- Does chiropractic treatment hurt?
Chiropractors correct most patients with very little pain. All that happens when you hear a cracking or popping sound is gas bubbles escaping the joint fluid.
- How many chiropractic treatments will I need?
The intensity, complexity, and general health of the patient determine how many treatments are required. While some people feel better after a few sessions, others could need continuous care.
- Is chiropractic care covered by my health fund?
Chiropractic care is covered under many health insurance plans. Checking with your particular health fund is always recommended.
- What is the difference between a chiropractor and a physiotherapist?
Though they take different tacks, both professions deal with musculoskeletal problems. Physiotherapists concentrate on rehabilitation by exercise and physical treatment, while chiropractors concentrate on the connection between the spine and the neurological system. Both methods can complement one another.
Chiropractors can help with pain alleviation, increased mobility, and general well-being by focusing on restoring normal joint function and enhancing nerve system communication.
To find out more, speak to our team of experts today!
