Chiropractic

Manual alignment to support your structural and overall health

How can chiropractic nourish you?

Chiropractic is a complementary healthcare discipline that involves diagnosing and treating mechanical problems of the musculoskeletal system [1] without the use of drugs or surgery. The word ‘chiropractic’ is derived from the Greek words ‘cheir’ and ‘praktos’, meaning ‘hand’ and ‘done’ [2] or ‘practised’, so the combination roughly translates to ‘done by hand’.

The original version of chiropractic was developed by Daniel David Palmer, a 19th-century spiritualist [3]who experimented with magnetic healing prior to founding this modality. In its earliest form, chiropractic included beliefs about the role of the nervous system [4] in causing ill health which are inconsistent with established principles of mainstream medicine.

As chiropractic education evolved, the profession increasingly embraced a medical and scientific understanding [5] of the musculoskeletal system, and today, many chiropractors work cooperatively with doctors and other healthcare providers. In 2016, an influential article recommended [6] the best definition for chiropractors as “musculoskeletal practitioners with a special emphasis on spinal pain”.

Chiropractic has much in common with osteopathy, which places an emphasis on musculoskeletal alignment, performing manipulations[7] of the spine and various joints, and a non-invasive, whole-body approach to health. Chiropractors are trained to identify health conditions which are not suitable[8] for chiropractic treatment and will refer their patients to a GP or suitable specialist. In Australia, chiropractors are registered health professionals regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)[9].

Benefits of chiropractic

The majority of evidence suggesting the effectiveness of chiropractic is focused around spinal conditions. Although one study reported temporary adverse effects [10] such as tiredness and dizziness after chiropractic intervention, the researchers concluded that the benefits of reduced neck pain and disability may outweigh the risk of treatment. There is evidence to suggest spinal manipulation followed by exercise offers greater benefits [11] for back pain than exercise alone. 

Reviews of randomised controlled trials suggest that spinal manipulative therapy may be one of several effective treatments [12] for chronic lower back pain. There is evidence to indicate chiropractic may be helpful in relieving the symptoms of migraine headaches [13], and research also suggests spinal manipulation may be equally effective as surgery [14] in the treatment of sciatica. 

Another possible benefit of chiropractic is a decreased reliance on pain medication. The results of a systematic review suggest people receiving chiropractic care for musculoskeletal pain are estimated to be 49% less likely to be prescribed opioids for pain management  [15]than those treated by other health professionals.

Chiropractic may assist in relieving symptoms related to:

Arthritis, rheumatism and osteoarthritis Back pain Balance, stability and coordination Cerebral palsy Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Circulation and cardiovascular conditions Foot, heel and ankle issues Headaches and migraines Heart conditions and heart attack Hips and pelvis Muscle spasm, tightness and cramps Muscle strain and injury Neck pain Osteoporosis and bone density Pain relief Posture and spine issues Sciatica Spinal cord injuries Stroke Vomiting and nausea Show all

What to expect from a chiropractic session

In some respects, a visit your local chiropractor has similarities to seeing a GP[16] or other healthcare provider. To begin, the chiropractor -- often shortened to ‘chiro’ -- will obtain a detailed medical history from you, examine you and complete an orthopaedic assessment[17], then suggest a diagnosis. Chiropractors are trained in using X-rays [18] as one of their diagnostic tools to help evaluate your condition. Your chiro will then customise a suitable treatment plan, which may involve massage and recommendations about exercise [19] and nutrition, as well as spinal adjustments. 

A chiropractor performs an adjustment by delivering a swift and carefully directed push or thrust to a joint [20]whose movement is restricted. Chiropractors use their hands or an instrument designed for the purpose of carrying out this adjustment, with the aim of improving mobility and restoring the joint’s natural function[21].

Due to the examinations and diagnostics involved, your first chiropractic session may last up to an hour or more. Follow-up sessions are usually shorter in duration, and on average, it will take 6-10 visits to obtain best results[22]. The number and duration of your visits will depend on your specific treatment plan.

Chiropractic is unsuitable if you are suffering from advanced osteoporosis or other conditions affecting your bones, as well as illnesses such as arthritis[23], which compromise the stability of your joints. However, chiropractors are trained to modify their adjustments to the individual and may assist with these conditions. If chiropractic is not advisable, your chiropractor will direct you to a practitioner or specialist[24] better-equipped to ensure your best health outcome.

Adverse effects from chiropractic are usually minor and temporary, although there are rare cases when more serious complications[25] including disc herniation or stroke have been reported. However, the hazards are small if you are being treated by a suitably trained practitioner[26], and this modality has a lower risk profile than conventional spinal treatments[27] involving medication or surgery. 

As with any exercise or wellness program, please consult your medical professional before commencing chiropractic. If you have any concerns at all, also speak to your chiropractor, who will be happy to address these and evaluate whether chiropractic is a suitable treatment for you.

References

  1. Chiropractic. Allied Health Professions Australia [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  2. History of Chiropractic. American Chiropractic Association [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  3. Lazarus D. Chiropractic treatment, a $15-billion industry, has its roots in a ghost story. Los Angeles Times; 2017 Jun 30. 
  4. Hirst K. What is the history of chiropractic? Thorne Road Chiropractor; 2022 May 10.
  5. Evans R, Leininger B. History of chiropractic. University of Minnesota [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  6. Walker BF. The new chiropractic. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies; 2016 Jun 20.
  7. Chiropractor or osteopath: Who should you see? Invacare; 2021 Jul 8.
  8. Chiropractic. Better Health Channel [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  9. Regulating Australia’s chiropractors. The Chiropractic Board of Australia [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  10. Rubinstein SM, Leboeuf-Yde C, Knol DL, De Koekkoek TE, Pfeifle CE, Van Tulder MW. The benefits outweigh the risks for patients undergoing chiropractic care for neck pain: a prospective, multicenter, cohort study. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics; 2007 Jul 1.
  11. United Kingdom back pain exercise and manipulation (UK BEAM) randomised trial: effectiveness of physical treatments for back pain in primary care. BMJ; 2004 Nov 19.
  12. Rubinstein SM, Van Middelkoop M, Assendelft WJ, De Boer MR, Van Tulder MW. Spinal manipulative therapy for chronic low-back pain. Cochrane Library; 2011 Feb 4. 
  13. Bryans R, Descarreaux M, Duranleau M, Marcoux H, Potter B, Ruegg R, et al. Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Chiropractic Treatment of Adults with Headache. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics; 2011 Jun 1.
  14. McMorland G, Suter E, Casha S, Du Plessis SJ, Hurlbert RJ. Manipulation or microdiskectomy for sciatica? a prospective randomized clinical study. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics; 2010 Oct 1.
  15. Lowry F. Chiropractic care tied to significant reduction in opioid scripts. Medscape; 2019 Mar 19. 
  16. Chiropractic: in depth. NCCIH [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  17. What happens during your first chiropractor visit. Canberra Spine Centre [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  18. Advice for chiropractors on the use of radiography (x-rays). The Chiropractic Board of Australia [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  19. Chiropractic and You. Australian Chiropractors Association [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  20. Chiropractic Adjustment – What is it? Chiropractor Melbourne [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  21. What is a chiropractic adjustment? Australian Chiropractors Association [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  22. Chiropractic adjustment. Mayo Clinic [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  23. Perle SM, Ciccone T. Chiropractic Care: What Are the Real Risks? HealthCentral; 2019 Aug 28. 
  24. Chiropractic - Central Coast Spinal Care Centre. Central Coast Spinal Care Centre [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  25. Chiropractic Adjustment. Cleveland Clinic; 2022 Apr 25.
  26. Is chiropractic safe? Integrated Wellbeing Centre [cited 2024 Oct 9].
  27. Is chiropractic care safe? Australian Chiropractors Association [cited 2024 Oct 9].

Frequently asked questions

Chiropractic is a complementary healthcare discipline that focuses on diagnosing and treating mechanical problems of the musculoskeletal system. It differs from conventional medicine as it emphasizes hands-on, drug-free, and non-surgical approaches to address musculoskeletal issues.

The term 'Chiropractic' is derived from the Greek words ‘cheir’ (hand) and ‘praktos’ (done or practised), translating to 'done by hand'. Chiropractic is often associated with manual techniques, as practitioners use their hands to perform adjustments and manipulations aimed at improving musculoskeletal function.

Chiropractic typically addresses mechanical problems of the musculoskeletal system. The majority of evidence supporting its effectiveness is focused around spinal conditions, including neck and back pain.

While temporary adverse effects like tiredness and dizziness have been reported after chiropractic intervention, research suggests that the benefits of reduced neck pain and disability may outweigh the associated risks. Chiropractic is considered a generally safe approach.

There is evidence suggesting that spinal manipulation, a key component of chiropractic care, followed by exercise offers greater benefits for back pain than exercise alone. Spinal manipulation aims to improve joint mobility and reduce pain, contributing to overall musculoskeletal health.

Chiropractic is generally suitable for many individuals seeking non-invasive approaches to address musculoskeletal issues. During a session, one can expect the chiropractor to conduct a thorough examination, make manual adjustments to specific areas, and provide guidance on exercises or lifestyle modifications to support overall musculoskeletal health.

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