Services Offered By Chiropractors

Chiropractors are health care practitioners known mainly for their expertise with the human spinal column and back region. Yet that’s not all they do. Doctors of Chiropractic medicine perform preventative, diagnostic techniques as well as devise treatment plans for their patients. Their philosophy is geared toward the belief that misalignments in the spine can cause other problems. Some examples include poor general health, pain, nervous system ills and a host of other maladies.

Chiropractors focus on natural cures. They know that a patient’s lifestyle can make a difference between sickness and health. Exercise, proper diet, posture, sleep habits and genetic predisposition all play a role in how a person feels as well as how their body functions. Drugs and surgical intervention are not part of the chiropractic remedial tool box, though they do use x-ray technology in their diagnostic methods. Many of their cures include spinal manipulation, massage and touch.

Not only are sore backs aided by chiropractors: other, less commonly associated issues are handled by a chiropractor as well. If misalignment is occurring, an individual may develop asthma, ear aches, ADHD, insomnia, sore throat, neck pain, hip aches, headaches and more. Some practitioners concentrate in specific areas such as athletic injuries, orthopedics, neurology, pediatrics and dietary concerns.

Some of the treatment options beside hands-on manipulation include acupuncture, ultrasound, massage, light or heat therapies and even tingly electrical currents to loosen up muscles which are clenching and causing trouble. They often do a full screening of a patient’s health and lifestyle choices in order to offer advice on ways to improve well-being. A regime that includes whole grains, lean protein, veggies, fruits, adequate water intake and daily exercise can often turn a person’s health around. Learning good relaxation tactics such as yoga, meditation or breathing techniques can also alleviate stress triggers or at least help the patient learn more satisfactory coping techniques.

In order to become trained and certified as a Doctor of Chiropractic, also referred to as a "DC," a practitioner must complete undergraduate university studies before entering a four year Chiropractor’s College. During DC training, a practitioner will take academic studies in science fields such as human anatomy, physiology, chemistry, psychology, nutrition and more. He or she will have to complete many hours of hands-on training with actual patients, as well. After completing these studies, the doctor will need to pass a series of examinations before becoming licensed through the regional Board of Examiners.

Practitioners may work in a large office with a group of other professionals or have a solo practice. Chiropractors who run their own office will need to be knowledgeable in small business ownership and management practices as well as the medical portion. Hiring, firing, setting up an office, keeping accounting books, and adhering to all governmental regulations will be necessary to be a successful businessperson.

Chiropractors are sought after as health care practitioners. Their expertise in alternative medicine is desired in this growing field. Many individuals are interested in learning about natural techniques to enhance their well being.