How a Chiropractor Can Help You

By Alden Smith

Part 2: Finding a Chiropractor >

The science of chiropractic revolves around the fact that the nervous system controls the functions of the body's organs, tissues, and even the body's cells. When the body's spine or other skeletal parts are out of alignment, they have a great effect on the entire nervous system. Chiropractors seek to align the positions of the spine and joints to give the patient relief from a variety of ailments. Chiropractic science is unique in that it does not rely on drugs or narcotic pain relievers to help the body gain relief from pain. The entire chiropractic system is based on a more holistic approach.

Because of the spine's relationship to the brain, which controls pain and body movement, a great deal of chiropractic focus is placed there. When the spine is in balance, the rest of the body's appendages, such as hands, feet, arms and legs will also be in balance, allowing the body to heal itself naturally.

A licensed chiropractor must complete a minimum of four years of post-graduate study, including clinical experience under the supervision of the teaching staff of his preferred university in order to obtain the degree of doctor of chiropractic (D.C.). He is then required to pass a nationally standardized exam, given by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, before he can become licensed in any state. The newly licensed chiropractor can also pursue post-doctorate degrees in specialized areas, such as orthopedics, pediatrics, occupational health, and sports medicine.

Chiropractors use many different approaches in their treatment of a patient. Be forewarned that your chosen chiropractor may not use them all, however. These may include:

• The diversified technique. This is the common method most people relate to in chiropractic intervention. This method is used to induce a slight gapping of the joints in the spine, and is the technique that gives the popping sound most people think of when they consider chiropractic manipulation. The focus of this technique is on restoration of the spine's normal alignment, and is managed through specific high velocity, low force thrusts to specified areas of the restricted motion of the vertebrae. It is highly effective for relieving pain from such significant trauma as a fall, sports injury or automobile accident.
  
  
• "Gentle touch," or non-force methods that apply light to medium pressure to a misaligned bone. This will help the muscles to elongate and relax, easing pain in the patient.
  
  
• The use of an activator, which is a rubber-tipped instrument that manipulates the spine or areas that are tender or delicate, such as knee and elbow joints.
  
  
• Ultrasound may be also used. The vibrations from the ultrasound machine can reduce muscle spasms, and reduce inflammation of body tissues.
  
  
• The use of different supports, rolls and wedges that help to hold the body in position during manipulation.

There are many other techniques used that are beyond the scope of this article. Doing an online search will reveal the methods that a chiropractor may use.

Part 2: Finding a Chiropractor >

Alden Smith is an award winning author and regular contributor to DoItYourself.com. He writes on a variety of subjects, and excels in research.

© Doityourself.com 2006