If you find yourself asking ‘what is chiropractic?’ or ‘what does a chiropractor do?’ then look no further, as we give you a brief explanation about the wonderful practice of chiropractic.
Chiropractic is a drug and surgery free modality of treatment concerned with the diagnosis, management and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal system (spine); this includes the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health.
Chiropractors work in partnership with their patients by utilising their clinical experience, and tailoring care to your needs and preferences. By using a variety of non-surgical techniques such as specific spinal adjustments, manual therapy and low-force intervention, chiropractors offer a hands-on approach to spinal healthcare. They are not only trained to treat musculoskeletal pain patients, but trained to facilitate health promotion, rehabilitation and patient education.
There is a common misconception that chiropractic care involves a singular therapeutic technique – spinal manipulation or spinal adjustment. Chiropractors however, use a patient-centred, multi-modal type of care, providing a therapeutic approach to care that incorporates a range of manual therapies. This may include spinal adjustments, but also includes mobilisation, muscle and soft tissue techniques along with exercise prescription, nutritional recommendations and lifestyle advice.
When treating children, chiropractic care typically involves the use of low-force, low-amplitude techniques in contrast to those used on adults. Chiropractors are educated to modify spinal manual therapy to suit the age and presenting condition of a patient.
Australian chiropractors are highly qualified healthcare professionals who study at university for a minimum of five years and are government regulated and registered. Like all other registered healthcare providers, chiropractors adhere to national law and profession specific codes of conduct.
They also never stop training and working to improve their clinical skills. All chiropractors must undertake continuing professional development every year to maintain registration, constantly learning and staying current with the latest research.
Some other interesting points include the fact that Australian chiropractors manage an estimated 21.3 million patient visits per year,1 and chiropractic care is backed by scientific studies from around the world.
If you have any more questions or are curious about chiropractic, your local ACA chiropractor will be happy to help. Find your nearest ACA chiropractor at findachiro.org.au
1 Adams, Jon et al. “A workforce survey of Australian chiropractic: the profile and practice features of a nationally representative sample of 2,005 chiropractors” BMC complementary and alternative medicine vol. 17,1 14. 5 Jan. 2017, doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1542-x