What is a Chiropractor?
According to the World Federation of Chiropractic it is:
“A health profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal adjustment and other joint and soft-tissue manipulation”.
WFC Dictionary Definition
World Federation of Chiropractic, 2001
Chiropractic is a primary health-care profession that specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and overall management of conditions that arise within with the joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves of the body, particularly those of the spine. Treatment consists of a wide range of manipulative and soft tissue techniques, designed to improve the function of the joints, reducing muscle spasm, and relieving pain.
Chiropractic Manipulative Techniques Change a Joint's Capability to Move (Range of Motion)
Chiropractic Manipulation Targets Only the Problematic Joint (s).
Chiropractic Manipulations Quickly Lead to An Alleviation of Symptoms Experienced By Mechanical Joint Dysfunction.
The First Step Involves:
The recording of a thorough medical history!
Then an examination of the suspected dysfunctional joints, which is informed as much by the clinical picture and history, as it is by any physical exams.
The Second Step Involves:
Once the problematic joints are identified, work can begin to start influencing their behaviour. This often involves massage to the surrounding and affected areas, and some gentle mobilisations to the dysfunctional segments.
The Third and Final Step Involves:
The application of the manipulation/adjustment/correction to the dysfunctional joint(s). Once these are made, and the treatment/intervention is complete, the emphasis now shifts to advising the patient how to best enhance the results (often times taking it 'easy' and avoiding strenuous activity on the day of an appointment).
It is completely normal, depending on the condition and its' level of irritableness, to experience some post treatment discomfort.
Most people find that this dissipates over the following 24-48 period. If the more severe and painful conditions are treated, it is not uncommon to have a very brief heightening of symptoms before alleviation in pain levels/an improvement in funtion is seen.
It is best to clarify with your practitioner what the likely outcomes will be in your particular case.
By Law every UK Chiropractor must be registered with the GCC. It is a protected title, and a regulated profession. A Chiropractor must also have an up to date insurance policy. Occasionally, a Chiropractor may also register with a separate professional associate or research entity.
Chris is Registered with The GCC, Reg Number 03464. Chris is insured with Balens. Chris is also a Member of The Royal College of Chiropractors.
