You are attending a wellness conference and one of the exhibitors is a chiropractor in your local area. You are unfamiliar with chiropractic care and want to learn more. Since you are at the conference, the doctor assumes that you have knowledge of medical terminology. Begin the chiropractor’s explanation.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiropractic
Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those affecting the spine. It is based on the belief that proper alignment of the spine and other joints can improve overall health and well-being.
To understand chiropractic care, it's helpful to have a basic understanding of some medical terms. Let's start with the spine. The spine is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae, which are stacked on top of one another. In between these vertebrae are small, cushion-like structures called intervertebral discs. The spine is divided into different regions, including the cervical spine (neck), thoracic spine (upper back), lumbar spine (lower back), and sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine).
Chiropractors use a technique called spinal manipulation, also known as spinal adjustment, to treat various conditions. During a spinal manipulation, the chiropractor applies controlled force to specific joints in the spine or other areas of the body. This force helps restore proper alignment, improve joint mobility, relieve pain, and enhance overall function.
Chiropractors also focus on the concept of subluxation. A subluxation refers to a slight misalignment or dysfunction of a joint, particularly in the spine. This misalignment can interfere with the normal functioning of the nervous system, which is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Chiropractors believe that correcting subluxations can help optimize overall health and facilitate the body's natural healing processes.
In addition to spinal manipulation, chiropractors may use other treatments such as manual therapies, rehabilitative exercises, and lifestyle modifications to support the healing process. They often collaborate with other healthcare providers to provide comprehensive care for their patients.
It's important to note that chiropractic care is considered a complementary or alternative form of medicine and should not replace conventional medical treatment. If you're considering chiropractic care, it's recommended to consult with your primary care physician or a healthcare professional to determine if it is appropriate for your specific condition.
I hope this explanation helps you understand the basics of chiropractic care. If you have any further questions or want more specific information, feel free to ask!