Chiropractor Treatment Techniques
Chiropractors have a wide variety of techniques, available to them, to help solve the problems faced by their patients. Most of these techniques involve manual therapy to affected areas of the back to have a corrective effect on the spine. Often, this manual therapy consists of a sharp thrust in a carefully pre-determined direction, at the right place. It is usually done quickly so as to not give the muscles time to react and inhibit the effect. Commonly, a popping sound is heard, triggered by gases in the synovial fluid(the fluid that lubricates the vertebrae). This is nothing to be alarmed about and a trained chiropractor can execute such a remedy quickly, easily to provide near-immediate relief.
These treatments are usually done by hand but may require scientifically advance devices,whether prior to the procedure, for diagnosis, or during the procedure itself. The most common is the use of an X-Ray, prior to therapy, to give the chiropractor a clear image of the problem, so he can make an educated decision, as to how he can best correct it. Also, a technique similar to acupuncture, called dry needling is practiced, as well as the, relatively new, electrical stimulation. These techniques do not involve directly moving the vertebrae of the spine but some chiropractors use these in conjunction with conventional physical methods, or commonly as stand-alone procedures.
Not so clinical treatments include soft tissue therapy, somewhat like massage, strength training, to strengthen the back and alleviate discomfort. Nutritional recommendations may also be made, such adequate Vitamin D and Calcium intake, among other advice, possibly specific to the patient’s problem.
All these methods have their merits, in various conditions, with various patient complaints. A trained chiropractor can analyze the situation and select the best possible remedy for the individual’s complaints. Often, this may include one of the above, or a combination to achieve a cumulative effect. The severity of the problem, type of therapy required and age of the patient(which ties directly to vertebrae health) are all factors the chiropractor will consider when choosing the treatment.
