Education of Chiropractors

Chiropractors are alternative health care practitioners. These providers believe that the human musculoskeletal systems must be in proper alignment in order for each person to obtain optimal well being. A spinal column that is misaligned will compress nerves and cause illness and maladies in the person. These crooked regions are straightened out and lined back up by manual therapy and hands-on manipulation. In order to be able to perform chiropractic health care, a doctor must complete substantial amount of training and education. This enables them to become certified and licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and conditions.

This medical discipline came into existence shortly before the beginning of the 20th century. The men responsible for birthing this practice were D.D. Palmer and his son B.J. Some of the buzzwords for this alternative health care methodology include "innate intelligence" and "subluxations." Innate intelligence refers to a body's intuitive quality and ability to heal itself. Subluxations refer to the actual misalignment that results.

In addition to manual therapies, chiropractors use a variety of remedies including massage, vitamin supplements, acupuncture and lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes may address posture, relaxation techniques, proper diet and exercise. Proper posture will aid a body's innate ability to heal itself and alleviate pain by adhering to proper positioning. When a person's posturing is crooked, they are experiencing compressed nerves and muscles as a result. Relaxation techniques may include deep breathing techniques, yoga, meditation practice or even taking long walks in nature. A healthy diet contains the proper building blocks of lean proteins, whole grains, and fresh seasonal fruits and veggies, and can provide all necessary tools for a body to regenerate itself. Poor diet can do just the opposite, and the individual may end up with disease and deficiencies. Adequate sleep during the night and a healthy tool box of relaxation techniques will allow a body to shed stress, rebuild and rejuvenate.

Doctors of chiropractic are called DC's. They earn the right to place these initials behind their name, similar to an MD, after extensive schooling. Four years of undergraduate work at a university is required before being admitted to a Chiropractor's College. These future DC's will need to spend four more years studying at the graduate program level. They will take multiple courses in anatomy, psychology, mathematics, public health, chemistry and more. They will perform many hours of hands-on patient care in the college's clinic in order to meet certification regulations as well. This is a good place for patients on a budget to obtain low cost health care while the doctors are learning their tricks of the trade.

Although chiropractic care is often sought after for back pain, there are many other ills which can be addressed by these professionals. Sore necks, hips and headaches may be alleviated with spinal adjustments. Chronic asthma, earaches, ADHD and even insomnia can be helped with various treatments offered by chiropractors. Individuals of all ages may benefit from receiving services from these practitioners. Even babies with colic may find relief under the trained hands of chiropractors.