Chiropractic / Physiotherapy

What is Chiropractic Care?

One of the clearest definitions of the role of chiropractic care under managed care comes from the American Chiropractic Associations (ACA):

“Doctors of chiropractic (DCs) assess and manage patients with neuromusculoskeletal disorders and related clinical conditions including, but not limited to, back pain, neck pain, and headaches. When addressing patients needs, DCs utilize appropriate diagnostic procedures and conservative therapeutic interventions, with primary focus on spinal manipulation. As with other health care disciplines, chiropractic is committed to accountability and predictability in obtaining measurable outcomes. These would include, but are not limited to, pain, physical function, and patient satisfaction.” (Dobson 1997)

Chiropractic Care can Benefit a Significant Proportion of the U.S. Population

“Lower back problems affect virtually everyone at some time during his or her life. Surveys indicate a yearly prevalence of symptoms in 50 percent of working age adults; 15-20 percent seek medical care. Low back problems rank high among the reasons for physician office visits and are costly in terms of medical treatment, lost productivity, and nonmonetary costs such as diminished ability to perform or enjoy usual activities. In fact, for people under age 45, low back problems are the most common cause of disability.” (Bigos 19994)

The main therapeutic procedure performed by DCs is known as manipulation, also called chiropractic adjustment. DCs also utilize diagnostic procedures, including but not limited to physically examinations and x-rays when called for; physiotherapeutic modalities; and counseling of patients on appropriate lifestyle changes that could improve their musculoskeletal functioning for example, exercises aimed at building flexibility, strength, and overall well-being. In addition, DCs have broad diagnostic skills and readily refer patients to the appropriate health care provider when chiropractic care is not suitable to the patient’s condition.

The purpose of manipulation is to restore joint mobility by manually applying a controlled force into joints that have become hypomobile due to tissue injury. Tissue injury can be caused by a single traumatic event, such as improperly lifting a heavy object, or through repetitive stresses, such as sitting in an awkward position with poor spinal posture for an extended period of time. In either case, injured tissues undergo chemical changes that can cause both inflammation and pain for the sufferer. Manipulation of the joint restores mobility, thereby alleviating pain and allowing tissues to heal.

Who are Doctors of Chiropractic?

Doctors of chiropractic, also known as chiropractic physicians in some states, are licensed health care practitioners who have undergone a rigorous course of clinical and practical training. Before they are allowed to practice, DCs must pass national board exams and become state licensed. Most states also require continuing education and yearly license renewal as well. DCs participating in managed care organizations are subject to the strict credentialing standards set by the National Committee on Quality Assurance (NCQA).