In this articleWhat is it?Chiropractic, derived from the Greek words ‘cheir’, meaning ‘hand’, and ‘praxis’, meaning ‘action’, is a form of manipulation used to correct spinal misalignment, treat joint and muscle problems and restore nerve function to the vital organs. What does it involve?Chiropractors aim to restore balance to the body by means of adjustments – careful, rapid application of slight force to individual bones – other manipulation techniques, massage and rehabilitation exercises. These are also intended to stimulate the body’s natural healing ability. Who practises it?There are more than 2,000 chiropractors in the UK, with most seeing between 40 and 100 patients a week. The majority are in private practice, although some work in GP surgeries or sports settings. A small number of doctors and other health professionals have also trained in chiropractic. Chiropractors normally complete four or five years of degree training. The profession has been regulated since 1994 and since 2001 no one can call themselves a chiropractor legally unless they’re registered with the General Chiropractic Council. What’s it used for?Chiropractors most frequently treat:
What’s the evidence?Studies have suggested that chiropractic can be effective in the treatment of low back pain, and it may help to ease non-migraine headaches and certain types of joint pain, but not all research results have been favourable. Some studies have been inconclusive owing to poor design, so more high-quality research is needed. Some review studies are available online from Cochrane Reviews, which provides independent evidence on specific healthcare topics. The NHS Complementary and Alternative Medicine Specialist Library also has research on chiropractic. How does it work?Chiropractic was originally based on the idea that misalignments, or subluxations, in the spine and muscle tension cause insufficient or excess pressure on the nerves, leading to impaired organ function and disease.
Spinal adjustment is believed to relieve muscle tension and improve the supply of nerve impulses, so facilitating healing. There’s little scientific evidence to support the idea that subluxations are a major underlying cause of disease, and some chiropractors have rejected this idea and devised other theories for how chiropractic may work based on more standard physiology. It’s generally accepted that spinal manipulation may have a range of physiological effects on the body, such as increasing circulation of body fluids and releasing tight muscles. What’s chiropractic like?Diagnosis – At your initial consultation, you’ll be asked questions about your medical history, lifestyle, symptoms and general health. You’ll usually be asked to remove your outer garments so your posture, movement and spine may be examined. Other tests, such as reflex tests and, occasionally, x-rays may also be carried out. Treatment – You’ll be asked to sit or lie on a couch and will normally be offered a loose gown to wear. Treatment usually consists of adjustments given mainly to the spine. Techniques, such massage and other mobilisation techniques, may also be used. Chiropractors may also use a range of non-manual techniques, including:
They may also give dietary and lifestyle advice. Time taken – First treatments generally last from 30 to 60 minutes, while follow-up sessions are usually between 15 and 30 minutes. Are there any side-effects?A common side-effect is soreness or discomfort in treated areas, although this usually settles quite quickly. Tiredness and headaches have also been reported. Severe side-effects are very rare but can include spinal trauma or joint injury, if excess force has been applied, damage to the nerves after low back manipulation and, in extremely rare cases, tears in a blood vessel (artery dissection) after neck manipulation, which can lead to stroke. X-rays should only be used if clearly necessary, as excess exposure can be harmful. How many treatments will I need?Generally, three to six treatments are used for recent, acute problems. Six to 12 sessions may be needed for more longstanding issues. Treatments are often once or twice a week initially and may then be repeated at intervals of some weeks. When is it unsafe to have chiropractic?
Chiropractic isn’t appropriate in the case of brittle bones (osteoporosis), infections, bleeding and cancerous tumours. Those on blood-thinning medication shouldn’t have neck adjustments because of increased risk of damage to blood vessels in the head. Care must also be taken during pregnancy and with young children or older people. If in any doubt about your condition, seek medical advice and inform your GP that you’re considering chiropractic. How much will it cost?Private treatment usually costs around £35 to £60 a session. Some private health insurance policies cover chiropractic and a few GP surgeries offer free, or subsidised, sessions. How can I find a qualified practitioner?The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) is responsible for regulating, developing and promoting chiropractic in the UK and maintains a register of qualified chiropractors. What if I have a problem?Try to talk over any concerns with your practitioner, but if you have a more serious complaint use the GCC’s formal complaints procedure. A medical opinionProfessor George Lewith, head of the complementary medicine research unit at Southampton’s University’s school of medicine, says: “Chiropractic is widely available and used by many people for all sorts of aches and pains, particularly back pain. Many patients report considerable benefit from visiting chiropractors, but there’s a real need for more research so we can understand more about this important and widely available treatment.” This article was written by Jacqueline Young, medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks and first published in March 2007. http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/healthy_living/complementary_medicine/therapies_chiropractic.shtml |
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Posted by: londonchiro | July 23, 2007
Spinal adjustment is believed to relieve muscle 
