What is a chiropractor, in 60 seconds or less...

    A chiropractor is a neuromusculoskeletal specialist.  We deal mostly with back and neck pain, but we can sometimes help with aches and pain in the arms and legs as they can originate from the nerves in the neck and back.  We can also treat whiplash, headaches, disc problems, muscle spasm, and sciatica (to name a few).  After a thorough history a chiropractor performs an evaluation, which involves looking at muscle strength, nerve function, reflexes, range of motion, and the results of any orthopedic exams (further examinations including x-rays may or may not be needed depending on the mechanism of the injury).  Once a diagnosis is reached a treatment plan is developed and the patient is educated on their condition.  Depending on the injury, we may begin by treating the soft tissue through electric stim, manual soft tissue work, or passive stretching.  Once the muscles and any inflammation have been addressed it is usually (but not always) time for an adjustment to be performed.  With precise positioning and manual pressure a chiropractor is able to move specific joints.  Movement in a joint helps to decrease pain, speed up healing, and increase range of motion.  By the end of a chiropractic treatment you should be able to feel and function better (hence my motto).