Chiropractic care uses hands-on techniques to manipulate the spine and joints. It is mainly used to help relieve pain and improve movement and physical function.
Chiropractic care may also promote relaxation and an overall sense of well-being. Manual techniques can help reduce muscle tension, which commonly occurs during periods of stress or anxiety.
Chiropractic care should be performed by a state-licensed chiropractor. It may not be suitable for people with severe osteoporosis or other conditions that increase the risks of spinal manipulation.
What it can help with
Chiropractic care may be used to help treat:
- Lower back or neck pain
- Muscle strains
- Certain types of headaches
- Pain caused by osteoarthritis
- Limited mobility
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, spinal manipulation may provide small improvements in pain or function for some people with these conditions.
A chiropractor uses manual techniques to help restore movement in the spine and other parts of the body. These techniques may also reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation and a sense of well-being.
Chiropractic care may be used on its own or alongside other medical treatments. However, a primary care provider or orthopedic specialist should be consulted before treatment begins to determine whether it is appropriate.
Is chiropractic care safe?
Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed professional. However, conditions such as a herniated disk or osteoporosis may increase the risk of injury if they are not properly identified beforehand.
Chiropractic care does not replace medical evaluation or treatment. In the United States, chiropractors must meet state licensing requirements.
What to expect
Before treatment begins, the chiropractor reviews the person’s medical history and evaluates their physical condition. This helps determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate and how the treatment should be planned.
During a session, the chiropractor uses hands-on techniques to manipulate the spine, muscles, and ligaments through movements and stretches of varying intensity. They may also recommend posture exercises to do at home.
Are chiropractors doctors?
Chiropractors earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and must be licensed to practice, but they are not medical doctors. They mainly diagnose and treat conditions involving the spine and musculoskeletal system using manual techniques.
Who should avoid chiropractic care?
Chiropractic care may not be recommended for people with:
- Severe osteoporosis
- A severe herniated disk causing symptoms such as tingling or muscle weakness
- A fracture that is still healing
- Use of anticoagulant medication
- Bone cancer
- A high risk of stroke
When chiropractic care is performed by a qualified and licensed professional, the risk of complications is generally low. Pain or discomfort in the treated area may occur after a session, but these symptoms usually last no longer than 48 hours.