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Since its formal foundation in 1895, the chiropractic profession has grown into the second largest of the primary health care professions. In the mid-1970s, chiropractic experienced rapid growth and acceptance — largely as a result of positive research findings that validate the benefits of chiropractic care. In the United States, chiropractic is now included in major insurance and federal programs, such as Medicare, the military, and the Veterans Administration.
Chiropractic champions a natural method of healing, advocating a nonsurgical, noninvasive, and drugless approach to the treatment of patients. Grounded in a view of the individual as an integrated being, the chiropractor focuses on spinal health and wellness as the keys to overall health and well-being.
Because of the interrelatedness of the body’s various systems, chiropractic theory holds that spinal mechanics — including the vertebrae, corresponding nerve,s and soft tissues — play a primary role in the health of the whole body.
The primary treatment for spinal dysfunction is a procedure known as vertebral adjustment, or more generally, spinal manipulation. An adjustment is a technique in which the chiropractor skillfully applies pressure to an area of the spine (or other joint) that is not functioning properly or is out of alignment. The procedure is often, but not always, applied manually. The intended result is reduced pain and inflammation, and restored function to the injured area.
In addition to adjustment or manipulation, patients may also received a treatment plan that uses physiological procedures, such as ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation, controlled exercise, nutritional counseling, and other professional advice that may improve overall health.
Patient progress under chiropractic care will be carefully monitored. Subjective improvements and objective clinical findings will be noted and treatment will be modified to meet the patient's changing condition. Should it be found that another type of health care would benefit healing, a referral to the appropriate provider will be made.