Are you suffering from chronic neck pain or lower back pain? Are you a pregnant woman tormented by back pain? Does your child have dislocated joints from a sports injury? Any of these situations can call for treatment. One method of treatment for the pain you may be suffering is called chiropractic care.

Chiropractic care pertains to a non-surgical and drug-free treatment on the neuro-musculoskeletal system. This type of health care focuses on treating problems on the spine, pelvis, body muscles, bones, joints and cognitive body tissues such as tendons, cartilage and ligaments. The word chiropractic was derived from the words “cheir” which is referring to hands and “praxis” which means action. These 2 Greek words are understood as “done by hands” treatment which is considered a complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Here are the 2 methods typically used by chiropractors to treat various musculoskeletal problems:

• Spinal manipulation – This is known as achiropractic adjustment. This is applied to improve the functionality of abnormal vertebra in the body and reduce nerve irritation. This method is the usual treatment plan for lower back pain. It is a passive way of maneuvering the three-joint complex of the body but not to disrupt or smash up the joints to normalize its function. The abrupt force causing perceptible joint loosening enhances the function of the affected area.
• Mobilization – This refers to low velocity manipulation which only involves movement and stretching of muscles and body joints to increase the range of motion.

This type of care does not use drugs or surgery for treatment. Instead it, uses message and physical therapy to correct body posture. Once the bones, joints and ligaments of the affected area are aligned, relief can be achieved. Though this type of treatment is generally very effective, it is not advisable for individuals suffering from osteoporosis. Before seeking chiropractic treatment, consult with your doctor to make sure your body is able to accept this type of care.