What is chiropractic?
Chiropractic is from the Greek words meaning “done by hand”. It is grounded in the principle that the body can heal itself when the skeletal system is correctly aligned and the nervous system is functioning properly. To achieve this, practitioners use their hands or an adjusting tool to perform specific manipulations of the vertebrae. When these bones in the spine are not correctly articulating nerve transmission is disrupted and causes pain and “dis-ease” manifested in the back, limbs and other areas of the body.
From chiropractic’s perspective, society’s new interest in a more holistic, more personal-responsibility based approach to health is a large step in the right direction. Fundamental to chiropractic is respect for the body’s natural ability to attain and maintain optimum health. Chiropractors believe their role is more of a facilitator than a healer: they help facilitate healing and health by working to create optimum conditions. With optimum conditions the body is then able to heal itself. How these optimum conditions are created requires commitment and teamwork between patient and chiropractic doctor. Restoring normal spinal, muscular and nervous system function and adhering to a healthy lifestyle are vital to creating correct conditions for the body to regain its health and to maintain wellness.
How do chiropractors help?
Chiropractors evaluate the movement of the joints in the spine and body. Areas of joint stiffness are corrected with an adjustment. The aim of adjustments is to restore function that has been lost from the injured area. The adjustment improves the movement of the joint, restores normal neurological communication and helps to relax the surrounding muscles allowing normal function in the affected the area. Over time this begins to correct the longstanding muscle imbalance and joint tightness and starts to relieve irritation of spinal nerves and discs. The overall effect is reduction in pain and an improvement in movement of the spine and body.
Chiropractors also look at fascia and spend time tracking down the restrictions in the muscles and skin all of which will help towards a smooth coordinated movement that does not put undue pressure on any other structures.
Chiropractors may also give you exercises and advice to help maintain your recovery. If necessary your Chiropractor may refer you to another professional such as your GP or massage therapist.
