What is A Chiropractor?

Chiropractic is a health care profession that focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal system, the nervous system and the effects of these disorders on general health.

The proper title for a Doctor of Chiropractic medicine is "Doctor" because chiropractors are considered physicians in the majority of states. The professional credentials abbreviation "D.C." stands for "Doctor of Chiropractic". Medicare recognizes chiropractors to be trained as Primary Care Providers (which means that it is not necessary for a patient to obtain a referral from their family doctor).

The main therapeutic procedure performed by a chiropractor is a spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustment. An adjustment restores joint mobility via the manual application of a careful, controlled force into the restricted joint. This restores the joint's natural range of motion, which results in the relief of pain and muscle tightness and allows tissues to heal.

When other medical conditions exist, chiropractic care may complement or support medical treatment by relieving the musculoskeletal aspects associated with the condition.

Scope of Chiropractic Practice

Chiropractors frequently treat individuals with musculoskeletal complaints, such as headaches, neck pain, lower back pain, sciatica and joint pain. Along with sprains and strains of all joints in the body, chiropractors also treat patients with osteoarthritis or degenerative arthritis, disc conditions such as bulging or herniations, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis. Chiropractors do not prescribe drugs or perform surgery. As part of our comprehensive treatment plan, we may recommend dietary changes and/or nutritional supplements.