Chiropractic - what is it and how does it work?

A lot of people think a chiropractor is someone who 'crack's your back' and is largely seen as a back pain therapist. But there's actually a lot more to this modality than you may think.

So, first off what is chiropractic?

Chiropractors are highly trained primary health professionals, requiring a five year university degree. Chiropractic is extremely safe therapy and is recognised as one of the safest types of healthcare in the world. It is even shown to be safer than most medical procedures (surgery and medication) used to treat the same conditions. In fact it is said to be 250 times safer than aspirin. The aim of chiropractic is to restore function to the spine and nervous system. Any disturbance to the spine means it may irritate nerves and alter nerve function. Since your nervous system controls every cell, tissue and organ in your body irritation and interference of the nerves can manifest as disease. Keeping your body free of interference from the spine and nervous system helps to ensure that your body performs at its best. This gives your body the best chance to adapt, repair, regenerate and function as it is supposed to.
How does it work?

Contrary to popular belief, chiropractors do not ‘crack’ your bones. What they do is work at releasing disturbances (subluxations) to the spine by manual correction. These corrections (called adjustments), may sometimes cause a popping sound. This sound is the joint moving, in the same way as when you bend down sometimes your knees pop. This noise is produced due to the release of gas between the joints. Chiropractic respects the fact that the body is self-healing and self-regulating. As the body is self healing, correcting disturbances to the spine can help the body overcome diseases as varied as indigestion, headaches and psoriasis (plus many others).

How long is a consultation?

Chiropractic consultations vary greatly between chirpractors and depends on which technique they use and what outcome they have in mind for the treatment. Times can range from one hour for an initial examination to one minute for a regular adjustment.
What is involved in a session?

Examination procedures also vary from doctor to doctor. You may or may not be asked to wear a gown and you will probably be assessed in several different positions, i.e. seated, standing and lying down. The chiropractor will examine your spine and body for any signs of subluxations (interference to your nervous system), and if detected an appropriate course of action will be recommended. This will range from manual adjustments to massage, to diet and lifestyle advice and exercises.

Did you know, the average education of chiropractic doctors is several hundred hours longer than that of medical doctors?

How many sessions will you need?

The answer to this will depend on your goals. If your aim is to remove pain, this can take as little as one visit depending on the problem and your body’s ability to heal. If your aim is to restore the stability in your spine then this might take several months. If your aim is to restore your spine to a point where it is functioning at its best then this may take months to years. To maintain optimal spinal health you may choose ongoing maintenance or wellness visits.

How much does it cost?

A recent survey of the chiropractic profession suggested that an average consultation cost is AUD$38. The initial consultation and report costs are often slightly higher and health funds provide a rebate for chiropractic treatment. Chiropractic is also covered by Veteran Affairs, Workcover, Motor Accident Commission. Medicare is available for some.

Chiropractic and headaches:
In some cases, headaches can be quickly and effectively relieved with chiropractic care and it is certainly high on the list of ailments that chiropractors treat on a daily basis.

Chiropractic and back pain:
If you have a sore back or neck there is a chance you have a subluxation in your spine. If this is the case, adjusting it can give your back a good chance of healing. In fact one study from the British Medical Journal showed manual therapy to be less costly and more effective than physiotherapy or general practitioner care for neck pain.

Chiropractic and depression:
Depression can be a symptom of an imbalance in the nervous system and in this case, chiropractic treatment can provide great relief. A chiropractor is also highly qualified to offer diet and lifestyle suggestions that may reduce signs of depression.

Which ailments is chiropractic good for?

* flu symptoms
* back pain
* postural distortions
* asthma
* allergies
* headaches
* numbness/tingling
* pre-menstrual syndrome
* learning disabilities
* ear infections
* neck pain

Is chiropractic safe during pregnancy?

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is very safe. In fact chiropractic care during pregnancy may actually reduce some of the risks for both mother and baby. In some cases, pelvic problems restrict the baby's position during pregnancy affecting the child's developing spine and cranium. These problems can lead to a longer and more painful labour. Chiropractors can assess and correct these pelvic subluxations leading to easier, healthier pregnancies and births.

Is chiropractic safe for children?

Chiropractic care is safe and effective for people of all ages. Many children receive chiropractic care every day from new born to school ages, and some chiropractors see only children.

Safety Tips

Chiropractic is recognised as one of the safest types of healthcare in the world and is shown to be safer than most medical procedures (surgery and medication) used to treat the same conditions.

About the Author:
Hannah is the owner/director of lemondrop.com.au. She is also an ex-editor/journalist and a practicing natural therapist.