Chiropractic
is a natural m the causes of physical problems rather than just the
symptoms. Chiropractic champions a natural method of healing, advocating
a non-surgical, non-invasive, and drugless treatment of patients. Chiropractic
is based upon a simple but powerful premise: with a healthy lifestyle
and normally functioning nerves, joints, and spine, your body is better
able to heal itself. This is due to the fact that the spinal cord,
which is protected by the spine, is the main pathway of your nervous
system. It controls movement, feeling, and function throughout your
body. Chiropractic theory holds that spinal mechanics plays a primary
role in the health of the whole body. The chiropractor works to restore
your health and guides you along a path to overall health.
The effectiveness
of chiropractic has been repeatedly documented in studies form such groups
as the AHCPR (Agency for Health Care Policy & Research: 1994), Ontario
Ministry of Health (Manga; 1993), Rand Corporation (1991) and others.
These studies and
others within the medical and chiropractic professions have been used
to develop clinical guidelines utilized within AHO managed care systems.
These studies clearly identify chiropractic manipulation as a viable
and scientifically proven methodology for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal
disorders of the spine.
What does the examination/consultation involve?
In your examination, your chiropractic physician will collect your health
history. He or she will then give you a physical exam, consisting of physical,
orthopedic, and neurological tests to determine you condition. This might
include palpation tests to check for tenderness, pain, swelling, and restricted
range of motion, lab tests, and x-rays.After diagnosing your
condition, if vertebral, your chiropractor may manually apply pressure
to your spine to reposition misaligned vertebrae. He or she may then prescribe
a course of treatments, which, besides periodic spinal manipulation, may
include strengthening and flexibility exercises, cold and hot compresses,
massage, traction, and even diet, relaxation, and behavior modification.
What
should I look for in a provider?
Look for a chiropractor who:
- Does everything he/she
can do to improve your health in an efficient manner.
- May or may not choose
to treat but emphasizes patient empowerment by teaching you how to
take better care of yourself.
- Only takes x-rays
when necessary and should explain the necessity.
- Gives you sensible
nutritional advice concerning supplementation and a healthy diet, as
necessary.
- Gives you advice
about exercise, stretching and posture to avoid future problems.
- Has a strong working
relationship with healthcare professionals of all specialties, including
family practice physicians, orthopedists, neurologist, physical therapists,
and psychiatrists.
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