What is Chiropractic ?
Chiropractic is a regulated primary healthcare profession. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose, treat, manage and prevent disorders of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints and muscles) as well as the effects these disorders can have on the nervous system and general health. They have specific interest in neck and back pain, but when they assess patients, they take their entire physical, emotional and social wellbeing into account.
Chiropractors use a range of techniques to reduce pain, improve function and increase mobility, including hands-on manipulation of the spine. As well as manual treatment, Chiropractors are able to offer a package of care which includes advice on self help, therapeutic exercises and lifestyle changes.
Chiropractic treatment mainly involves safe, often gentle, specific spinal manipulation to free joints in the spine or other areas of the body that are not moving properly. Apart from manipulation, Chiropractors may use a variety of techniques including ice, heat, ultrasound, exercise and acupuncture as well as advice about posture and lifestyle.
Although Chiropractors are best known for treating back and neck pain, which they do very well, patients also consult Chiropractors regarding a range of other related conditions.
In common with medical practitioners and dentists, the Chiropractic profession is regulated by law.
The Chiropractors Act 1994 provides statutory regulation for the profession and the title ‘Chiropractor’ is protected under this legislation. The statutory regulator is the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and it is illegal to practice as a Chiropractor without being registered with the GCC.