What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic specialises in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of conditions which are due to mechanical dysfunction of the joints and the effects of those conditions on the nervous system. Chiropractic is the third largest independent healing profession in the western world, after medicine and dentistry.
Chiropractic is a holistic therapy. Holism describes optimum health as the balance between the chemical, mechanical and psychological elements of the body. Any imbalance in these factors will disrupt the natural equilibrium of the body, which in turn may cause pain. The primary aim of chiropractic is the restoration of these elements to allow optimal healing. This is achieved using gentle and effective methods. The purpose of chiropractic care is not merely to relieve a symptom or address a cause of that symptom, but to provide holistic care, to treat the whole person; indeed to optimise health. No drugs are prescribed or utilised.

What do Chiropractors do?
In Chiropractic, the emphasis is on prevention and ‘adjustment.’ Depending on the condition being treated, one or more of a whole range of different chiropractic adjusting techniques can be used. With these techniques, your chiropractor creates an improvement in your joint’s mobility, as well as nerve and

What will happen when you visit a chiropractor?
A visit to the chiropractor is very similar to visiting your medical doctor: he or she is a primary healthcare professional. The difference is that the process and treatment of your complaint is approached from a holistic, drug free perspective. On the first visit, the chiropractor will take your medical history and carry out a full examination. This includes orthopaedic and neurological tests whereby muscle strength, nerve function, joint function, as well as body balance and alignment are determined. The examination may require further diagnostic tests such as taking x-rays. The chiropractor will then be in a position to establish problem areas and identify the source of the complaint. The chiropractor will explain why you are having a problem, what type of injury you have sustained and may suggest that you modify your daily activities to prevent further aggravation of your condition.

What does treatment involve?
Using skilled manipulation and quick, comfortable adjustment techniques, with just the right amount of pressure, chiropractors gently unlock stiff joints to restore proper function and mobility. This in turn helps to settle the pain. The vulnerable area is then stabilised with further treatments. When you have experienced the benefits of chiropractic treatment in reducing pain and discomfort, the next step is to help you get active again. Following treatment, rehabilitation and exercise are essential to speed your body’s natural healing process and strengthen your muscles to prevent recurrence of the condition.

How can you help with the treatment?
You have taken responsibility for your own health by visiting a chiropractor rather than relying on painkillers, or putting up with the pain. It makes sense to maintain your spinal health by taking exercise routines seriously, as well as being sensible about your diet and getting proper rest. Your determination to be involved in your own treatment will help you to get better and stay better.