Chiropractic Treatments For Common Ailments

Chiropractic treatments are considered "alternative medicine", but are among the most popular. Chiropractors care for many different ailments, and many patients report seeing significant improvement after receiving treatment. Adjustments can help with problems related to joint pain, spinal pain, pinched nerves, and even blood pressure in some cases.

Chiropractors use their hands to relieve problems such as pinching and pressure on spinal nerves, which then in turn relieves pain and other symptoms felt elsewhere in the body. They typically do not prescribe medication or perform surgical procedures; however, if a chiropractor is unable to successfully treat a particular ailment they may refer you to a medical doctor for further diagnosis and treatment.

In addition to spinal adjustments, many practices provide other physical therapy services such as massage and directed exercise to help alleviate patient symptoms, including upper and lower back and shoulder pain. Most chiropractors also do not focus only on the spine; they also treat other joints in the body and muscles. Some common ailments that can be treated include:

- Arthritis
- Sport Injury
- Neck, Back & Shoulder Pain
- Recurring Headaches
- High Blood Pressure

While some of the adjustment and manipulation techniques chiropractors use may look painful, most are actually quite the opposite, especially if you are able to fully relax during the treatment. It is important to remember that the treatments are safe when performed by a licensed professional, so there is no need to worry or feel tense during your appointment.

Choosing One

Because chiropractic is considered alternative medicine, it may be a bit more difficult for you to be able to identify a reputable local chiropractor. A chiropractor must have a DC degree (Doctor of Chiropractic) and needs to have passed a license exam administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.

It is important to remember that, as with most treatments, what works for one person may not work for another. If you do not see immediate relief from a technique your chiropractor is employing, ask him or her to try something else. You may want to move on to a different doctor or speak to your regular family physician about your problem for a different solution.

Chiropractors are trained to recognize when an ailment cannot be cured through their methods and should advise you to see a surgeon or medical doctor if necessary. Be sure to inform your regular doctor if you begin seeing a chiropractor.