Of all the issues that chiropractic deals with, musculoskeletal complaints are the most common. Indeed, chiropractic operates on the principal that by dealing with musculoskeletal complaints we can improve the health of the entire person.
This whole chain of nerves, bones and muscles, chiefly in and around the spine, is a major part of our overall health and well-being, and damage to this area can have implications that extend throughout the whole body.
Not surprisingly, musculoskeletal complaints form the bulk of a chiropractor's work. The following list, through not all-inclusive, covers the most commonly treated areas:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Joint pain (hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles)
- Sports injuries
- Pinched nerves
- Headaches
Although many doctors still consider chiropractic care to be of dubious merit, there is a growing body of evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating most spinal injuries.
It is also very safe - as a drug-free, non-invasive form of therapy it is far safer than most standard forms of medical treatment. For example, painkillers like aspirin or ibuprofen can result in astrointestinal bleeding or even death.
If you've never experienced it, a chiropractic manipulation can actually be quite relaxing. Using their hands, chiropractors realign the joints of the body, particularly the spine - this typically reduces pain and increases joint function.
Once your joints have been realigned your chiropractor will often suggest stretches and exercises you can use to keep your joints healthy and in alignment.
