The core treatment provided by chiropractors is a spinal adjustment, described in detail in What is a Chiropractor?
In addition, almost all chiropractors incorporate therapies that go beyond just chiropractic adjustment.
These services differ depending on the patient’s needs and the chiropractor’s skills and preferences.
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Typical services provided by chiropractors include:
- Heat and Cold Therapy: Use of ice packs and heat therapy to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Exercise Therapy: Chiropractors may prescribe specific stretches and strengthening exercises, such as McKenzie Therapy, to support recovery.
- Massage Therapy: Soft tissue massage to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
- Nutritional Guidance: Some chiropractors offer diet plans and supplement recommendations to reduce inflammation and encourage a better healing environment for spinal health.
- Ultrasound Therapy: Uses deep sound waves to relieve stiffness, pain, and muscle spasms while improving circulation.
- Diathermy: A form of electromagnetic therapy that delivers heat to deeper tissues, helping to relax muscles and improve circulation.
- Hydrotherapy: Utilizing hot and cold water treatments, such as whirlpools and saunas, to aid pain relief and stimulate healing.
- Electrical Muscle Stimulation: Small electrodes send light electrical pulses to reduce muscle spasms and inflammation.
- TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): A portable electrical stimulation device that blocks pain signals and promotes the release of endorphins.
- Traction Therapy: Chiropractic traction techniques may be used with the goal of decompressing spinal discs to relieve nerve pressure.
- Infrared Radiation Therapy: Uses thermal imaging to assess blood flow and underlying issues contributing to back pain.
- Cold Laser Therapy: Low-level laser light therapy aimed at reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and alleviating pain.
- Ergonomic Adjustments: Recommendations for workspace modifications to reduce strain on the spine, such as ergonomic and posture recommendations for sitting in an office chair.
- Pelvic Stabilization: Addressing leg-length differences or foot instability with orthotic supports to balance the pelvis.
- Patient Education: Lifestyle and self-care guidance, including diet, movement and posture recommendations, to support long-term spine health.
Chiropractors tailor the treatment to the individual’s needs, incorporating a combination of adjustments, mobilization techniques, and supportive therapies to alleviate pain and improve function.
Final Thoughts
Chiropractic adjustments can provide relief for various musculoskeletal conditions, from back pain to cervicogenic headaches to many types of sports injuries.
Whether using traditional spinal manipulation or gentler mobilization techniques, the right approach depends on individual needs and preferences.
