Answering the question, “what is a chiropractor?” is more than just looking up the word in a dictionary.
*Oxford dictionary definition
chiropractor (as defined in Merriam-Webster): a licensed health-care professional who treats disorders (such as back and neck pain) chiefly of the musculoskeletal system especially through the manual adjustment or manipulation of the spinal vertebrae to correct nervous system dysfunction.
A dictionary definition for a chiropractor only touches the surface. Let’s take a deeper look at what a chiropractor is and what they do.
What is a chiropractor?
A chiropractor is a trained care provider who focuses on healing using the spine and its connection to the body’s nervous system. Unlike conventional medical doctors, a chiropractor will not use drugs or surgery to treat issues. Instead, a chiropractor’s goal is to optimize the health of the whole human system in a non-invasive way. Essentially a chiropractor works to keep the body’s lines of communication open so that it can heal itself.
Chiropractors receive their license to practice after completing a Doctor of Chiropractic and passing the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners examinations. Chiropractors may train in different approaches to chiropractic care, but these are all doctoral programs focused on anatomy and physiology. A Doctor of Chiropractic generally takes 3-4 years after a B.S. degree.
What does a chiropractor do?
A chiropractor uses a number of techniques to help the body heal. They will perform spinal adjustments and manipulations to return the spine to its natural alignment. Depending on their training, a chiropractor may also utilize non-surgical spinal decompression as a treatment option.
- Spinal adjustments: small movements of the spine which correct issues in the vertebra in the spine.
- Spinal decompression therapy: a non-surgical treatment option that uses a special table and motorized traction to gently pull the spine and relieve compressed discs.
Some chiropractic offices may also incorporate other healing services that help enhance the benefits of chiropractic care, such as massage, physical therapy, and assisted stretching.
What conditions can chiropractic care treat?
A chiropractor can treat any number of conditions, including:
- Disc herniation
- Back pain
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Whiplash
- Headaches
This is just a brief look at chiropractors and what they do. If you are considering chiropractic care and have more questions, consider contacting an office in your area.
Chiropractors in Lake Mary, Florida
With a team of trained chiropractors, we would be honored to help you optimize your health. At Lake Mary Chiropractic Center, we take a comprehensive approach to whole body care. We would love to answer any questions you may have. Contact us for more information or ask about our NEW PATIENT SPECIAL.
