
Finding a chiropractor is easy if you know where to look. In the past, patients had to use their own luck in locating the best chiropractors and were often disappointed with the results. Fortunately, thanks to the internet, finding a good chiropractor is easier than ever.
Chiropractic is a relatively new medical specialty that was developed more than a century ago. During its early years, chiropractors were used to treat patients who suffered from muscular ailments such as back pain, muscle cramps, and sprains. Later, it was expanded to include conditions such as Lupus, autism, arthritis, allergies, and nerve problems.
Chiropractic theory says that muscles are aligned incorrectly in certain parts of the body. This causes misalignment and this is the reason for the problems a patient is experiencing. The theory behind this is that in order to help the patient move better, one must correct any misalignment in the body. Proper spinal alignment allows movement in all directions rather than only one.
A chiropractor uses a variety of diagnostic techniques to find out what the root cause of a problem is. Many diagnostic tests are used. Some of these include spinal MRIs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bone scans, X-rays, and electromyography (EMG). These tests can provide a diagnosis for a patient’s problem without having to go through surgery.
Some diagnostic tests that a chiropractor will use in the consultation will determine the diagnosis of a patient’s problem. As you will see, a chiropractor will use different tests and methods in diagnosing different problems.
There are two types of spinal adjustments that a chiropractor will perform. They are spinal decompression and spinal adjustments. A chiropractor may also use other therapies and manipulations to help relieve back pain.
Spinal decompression is performed by stretching and aligning the spine. The spine is stretched and the patient is then provided an amount of pain relief. During this procedure, the chiropractor may place traction on the spine.
Spinal adjustments are performed by moving the spine and correcting any misalignment. A chiropractor may loosen the muscles of the back to help alleviate pain. It may also require the chiropractor to do manual therapy to improve function. Manual therapy involves exercising the back muscles to improve the range of motion.
When performing spinal manipulation, the chiropractor will adjust and loosen various joints in the back. Sometimes, a chiropractor will use herbal remedies to help with muscle pain.
Spinal manipulation is often considered to be an alternative medicine technique. However, chiropractors have been required to practice medical ethics standards for several years. Before a chiropractor will use manipulation, he must obtain a referral from a physician.
Choosing the right chiropractor is important. Although chiropractors perform medical treatments, they do not perform surgery and therefore are not allowed to perform spinal manipulations.