What is Chiropractic?

Doctors of chiropractic, by performing spinal adjustments, promote good health by ensuring that the nervous system is functioning properly. This good health is achieved without the use of drugs or surgery.

The spinal column, which runs inside the 24 movable vertebrae of the backbone, is the core of the nervous system. Nerves branch out to every area of the body from openings between the vertebrae.

The chiropractic focus on the spine is based on evidence that the nervous system integrates all of the body's functions, even its defenses against disease.

Even a slight displacement of the vertebrae, which doctors of chiropractic refer to as a "subluxation," can cause interference with the spinal cord and nerves. This can lower the body's resistance to disease and cause aches, pains, headaches, and other disorders.

Chiropractic is an effective treatment for bone, muscle and joint problems. Studies have also shown chiropractic to be effective in treating headaches, colic in babies and carpal tunnel syndrome.

The most commonly used technique in chiropractic is adjustment of the spine. But chiropractic physicians also use heat, massage, mobilization, traction, exercise, nutrition and other therapies.