The man who started chiropractic in the 1890s was Daniel David Palmer, a student of Andrew Taylor Still – the founder of osteopathy. Palmer devised his own approach, putting much more emphasis on the local mechanics of the spine rather than on the overall posture, bones and muscles. Palmer’s first patient was a caretaker with a stooping posture who had lost his hearing. Palmer found a bone apparently out of position in the man’s back, manipulated it into place and his hearing returned. The word chiropractic is derived from the Greek words ‘cheiro’ (hand) and ‘praktos’ (action).
The Theory Behind Chiropractic
Poor function in the spine can lead to irritation of the nerves that govern posture and movement. This stress on spinal nerves (caused by an accident, poor diet, lack of exercise, bad posture or anxiety) can lead to discomfort, pain and disease. Chiropractors use their hands to adjust the joints of the spine where they find restricted movement, aiming to improve mobility and ease pain. The body’s healing processes are then able to get on with improving general health. This treatment is known as ‘adjustment’ or ‘manipulation’.
Diagnosis And Treatment
The chiropractor takes a full case history. You will be asked to undress down to your underwear. There will be a physical examination, and the movement of spine and joints will checked. X-rays will probably also be taken. Many chiropractors have their own x-ray equipment. (If chiropractic is not right for your condition, you will be referred to your GP or a specialist.) The chiropractor will then use manipulation or adjustments to correct the structure of the spine – this may involve a quick thrust to put a joint back into the correct place. Heat or ice pack treatment may also be used. And you may be given advice on changes to your lifestyle. The first consultation takes about half an hour; followup treatment sessions last about 15 minutes. You may be given exercises to do to help your recovery.
Does Chiropractic Work?
Chiropractic is popular for low back pain, although chiropractors recommend starting treatment early – say, in the first six weeks of symptoms being noticed. They have reported success with high blood pressure, digestive complaints, period pains and other conditions not directly related to the spine and joints. More research is underway.
What’s The Difference Between Chiropractic And Osteopathy?
Osteopathy
There are many similarities but osteopathy is concerned with the whole musculoskeletal system, while chiropractic concentrates on the spine. While osteopaths attach more importance to overall posture and the mechanics of the bones and muscles, chiropractors are more concerned with the detailed local mechanics (feeling that if these are dealt with, then the overall situation will improve).
Chiropractic
Chiropractors tend to rely more on x-rays and are more specific in the way they target their manipulations or thrusts. Osteopaths generally use more leverage in their adjustments. If an osteopath is going to use a thrust, he will probably carry out a series of preliminary manipulations first. The chiropractor tends to zero in straight away on what he sees as the problem point.
What causes the popping or cracking noise?
When two surfaces of a joint are moved apart quickly, the pressure in the joint space changes and tiny bubbles of gas (carbon dioxide) can ‘pop’. Also, as muscle tension is released any displaced facet joint surfaces can make a noise as they click back into position.
Will the treatment hurt me in any way?
You may feel sore afterwards while your body adjusts after treatment. As chiropractic manipulation – particularly of the neck – is occasionally risky, it may be worth liaising with your doctor before starting treatment.
Chiropractic Is Good For:
- Back pain, sciatica and disc problem
- Neck pain and whiplash
- Joint pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Period pain
- Arthritis
- Sports injuries
- Vertigo
Chiropractic
AVAILABILITY – Widespread
MEDICAL EVIDENCE – Mixed
MEDICAL ACCEPTANCE – Mixed
Self Help – Not Possible
This is a very informative, revealing post about a sometimes controversial mode of treatment. I support all types of treatments, alternative or otherwise, that avoid drugs or surgery, and this is one option. I have had chronic shoulder pain but, alas, surgery is the only remedy.
peace,
mike
livelife365
Mike Fosters last blog post..Streeeeeetch Your Life
There are so many natural alternative treatments out there that we may or may not heard or know of. Surgery, sometimes, can be good if other options weren’t able to help. Hope that your shoulder’s better now.