It is absolutely normal for someone who has never visited a chiropractor to ask questions in order to have a comprehensive knowledge of what chiropractic treatment entails. Anxiety and fear of the unexpected could mount certain difficulties which are common as with anything. To aid a better understanding of the chiropractic profession, The Texas Chiropractic Association enlighten the public on what the profession represents, procedures and the expectations after every appointment. Calling your local chiropractic clinic to request a consultation is the easiest way of finding out exactly what to expect. We offer free consultations, contact us here or call us if you have any questions.
What is chiropractic?
According to The World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC), the health profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system as well as the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. The emphasis remains on manual treatments which include spinal adjustments and other joint and soft-tissue manipulation.
This simply means experts in spine, muscle and nervous system who are specially trained to diagnose the fundamental cause as well as endorse pain relieve treatment options, restore mobility and avert recurrence without surgery or medication.
Why is it important?
Weight support, the provision of physical stability, the ability to move the body and the safety of vital organs are all made possible through the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractic treatment benefits include:
- Enhanced neck, shoulders, back and torso movements
- Better poise
- Headache, back and neck pain relief
- Relieved muscles and joint injuries sustained from work.
- Improved athletic efficiency
- Enhanced flexibility
- Relieved pregnancy-related pains
- Rectified gait and foot challenges
How does it work?
The method of chiropractic treatment commonly consists of manual therapy which includes manipulation, mobilizations and soft tissue therapy. A manipulation which is also known as an adjustment is a swift small shove to the spine or other parts of the body with the intention of giving instant pain relief and mobility. A less rapid, more lethargic movements or stretches that aids with stiff joint relief is known as mobilization. Soft tissue therapy simply refers to the various methods based on relieving distress without causing movement.
In addition to manual treatments, suggesting a course of action which includes exercise, nutritional counselling, preventive injury techniques, ultrasound or laser treatments and rehabilitation is what chiropractors are trained to do. Ailments such as injuries to the tendons, muscles, ligaments or nerves and chronic conditions which may vary from inflammatory arthritis, spinal stenosis as well as osteoarthritis which a chiropractor can help relieve and also restore function in certain areas of the body such as:
Head and neck
Shoulders
Mid-back
Low back and pelvis
Elbows, wrists and hands
Hips, knees, ankles and feet
Are chiropractic treatments safe?
It is imperative to note the distinctiveness between unsafe and the possibility of having reactions. There is a risk that comes with any therapeutic treatment from pharmaceuticals to manual therapy. Risk-benefit analysis as an example is a concept in medicine used to assess the amount of benefit a medication possesses in comparison to the possible risk. The higher the threat of the medication, the lesser chances of it becoming generally acceptable. In a situation whereby a similar risk-benefit assessment has been carried out, spinal manipulations should be recommended. Safety assessment of chiropractic treatment is carried out through the patient intake form and physical tests.
Adverse reactions
Fatigue, stiffness, prickling sensations, headaches, nausea, hot skin/flushing and fainting are negative reactions that could last less than a day. Over the one span of a lifetime, one or more of these reactions have been reported among 50% of patients.
Certain variables such as research designs, inclusion criteria and study selection have hindered the precise figures on adverse occurrence from chiropractic manipulation. The role of spinal manipulation in individuals with severe adverse occurrence still require extensive research.
Conclusion
For prevention, assessment, diagnosis and control of musculoskeletal conditions as well as an associated neurological system, chiropractic treatment is a harmless option. Texas chiropractors possess over 4,200 hours of core competency practice in the musculoskeletal system. The task of assessing the safety and possible risks associated with chiropractic treatment depends solely on patients and their healthcare providers, they are in the best position to make a decision whether or not spinal manipulation is what’s best for the patient.
