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What are Chiropractic Services?

K T Solis
K T Solis

Chiropractors help people who suffer from a variety of ailments, ranging from back pain to allergies. By manipulating patients' spines so that they are aligned properly, chiropractors can provide pain relief to people. The services a chiropractor provides are performed without the use of medication or surgery. These chiropractic services include spine manipulation in addition to other forms of natural therapy.

When visiting a chiropractor for the first time, a patient will provide the chiropractor with necessary information to receive treatment. For example, a chiropractor must learn a patient's medical history, family medical history, and lifestyle choices before beginning treatment. The chiropractor will often order x-rays for the patient to determine if the spine appears to function normally.

It takes four years to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.
It takes four years to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.

After examining the patient, the chiropractor will then begin chiropractic services. These services may include spine manipulation, ultrasound, heat and cold therapy, or massage. The goal is to treat the whole patient, encouraging changes in diet, lifestyle choices, and other factors that can adversely affect a patient's health.

In general, a chiropractor believes that if the spine is not in proper alignment, a patient's nervous system cannot function efficiently. This, in turn, causes a weak immune system. Weak immune systems contribute to poor health.

Some chiropractors offer massage therapy.
Some chiropractors offer massage therapy.

People who suffer from back pain, neck pain, headaches, injuries, scoliosis, sinus problems, or allergies may find chiropractic services helpful. Not only does spine manipulation benefit the nervous system, but it can also affect the functioning of other parts of the body. For this reason, some people who experience deteriorating health often choose to visit a chiropractor in hopes that their health will improve.

Adjustments to the spinal column may be performed by a qualified chiropractor.
Adjustments to the spinal column may be performed by a qualified chiropractor.

When a chiropractor adjusts a patient's spine, he or she uses the hands to manipulate the joints in a way that increases their range of motion. Following this form of treatment, patients may experience soreness or fatigue, but these side effects are only temporary. Several visits are required to receive the most benefits.

Patients can consult with their primary care physician to be referred to a skilled licensed chiropractor. Speaking with friends, family, and co-workers who visit chiropractors can also lead a patient to a chiropractor who can provide excellent chiropractic care. It's important that patients carefully research prospective chiropractors to ensure that they find the best chiropractor for their specific health care needs.

Proponents of chiropractic services suggest it can even help individuals who suffer from sinus problems.
Proponents of chiropractic services suggest it can even help individuals who suffer from sinus problems.

Any chiropractor selected should be a graduate of an accredited chiropractic services program. A good chiropractor is someone who listens to patients and tailors a program suited to each patient's health concerns. In addition to these criteria, a chiropractor should communicate openly with patients, answering their questions, and allaying any fears patients may have concerning chiropractic services.

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    • It takes four years to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.
      By: Alexander Raths
      It takes four years to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.
    • Some chiropractors offer massage therapy.
      By: apops
      Some chiropractors offer massage therapy.
    • Adjustments to the spinal column may be performed by a qualified chiropractor.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      Adjustments to the spinal column may be performed by a qualified chiropractor.
    • Proponents of chiropractic services suggest it can even help individuals who suffer from sinus problems.
      By: Innovated Captures
      Proponents of chiropractic services suggest it can even help individuals who suffer from sinus problems.
    • People who suffer from back and neck pain may find chiropractic services helpful.
      By: WavebreakMediaMicro
      People who suffer from back and neck pain may find chiropractic services helpful.