Your Guide to Chiropractors

Chiropractic care can benefit numerous issues, particularly with pain across the body. Seeing a chiropractor can be a last resort when all other methods of treatment have failed, or it can be a first step before turning to riskier options. Whatever the case, you will probably wonder what exactly a chiropractor is, how they operate, if they are a licensed doctor and if they can help treat you. Knowing how a chiropractor can help in the future keeps a door open for treatment should you ever need it.

Chiropractors vs. Doctors

Chiropractors are not medical doctors, so they do not have the same credentials as the physician you see in your annual checkup. However, no one can just start up a chiropractic practice without proper training and certifications first. Chiropractors go through rigorous training that usually involves a four-year degree followed by graduate classes, certifications and clinics. Some chiropractors may go on to specialize in a specific field, such as acupuncture. Your chiropractor should be no different than any other professional you go to.

Treatments 

Chiropractors work to alleviate pain and stress throughout the body. Common areas they focus on include:

  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Shoulder stiffness/pain
  • Hip stiffness/pain
  • Headaches/migraines

If you’ve been in an accident that’s left you with whiplash (for example, if you were rear-ended) or other injuries, a chiropractor can help the healing process. They can even work with patients who have recently undergone back surgery.

Adjustments

An adjustment is the main technique chiropractors use to relieve pain. Getting adjusted means having a chiropractor move your joints around so that they are better aligned. Chiropractic care revolves around the premise that the body functions on a higher level if the nervous and immune systems are not impeded or disrupted, which can be the case if joints are misaligned. Adjustments have been shown to ease immobile joints and release pain that patients have long suffered from.

Lasting Effects

Chiropractic care does not last forever, but it can get rid of pain for up to six weeks. Spinal manipulations, which are adjustments used to diminish back pain, are the most common reasons people see a chiropractor. If you suffer from back pain, you may have to continue to see a chiropractor, as your pain could eventually return. However, many patients report relief after an adjustment, so seeing one regularly can be an ideal option for those suffering from chronic pain. Consider looking into a chiropractor, like from AmeriWell Clinics, to see if they can help.