The practice of Chiropractic emphasizes clinical interventions that support the natural or innate ability of the body to heal itself and include:
- Manual Procedures (Procedures Done by Hand): Spinal Adjustments-Manipulation; Manipulation of Other Joints; Mobilization of the Spine and Other Joints; Soft Tissue Techniques for the Muscles, Fascia, Tendons and Ligaments.
- Exercise and Rehabilitative Programs.
- Use of Physiotherapy Modalities such as, Ultrasound, Interferential Current, Traction, Laser and other Modalities. While Chiropractors use these machines in America on their Own, in Thailand, these Machines are Used Under the Supervision of a Licensed Thai Physical Therapist Working Together with Licensed Chiropractors.
- Patient Education for Ergonomics, Posture, Nutrition, and Other Lifestyle Modifications.
- Other Supportive Methods such as, the Use of Back Supports and Other Joint Supports and Braces, as well as the use of Orthotic Arch Supports.
Chiropractors do not use drugs or surgery in practice and refer patients for medical care when those treatments may be necessary. According to surveys in Australia, Europe and North America, approximately 95% of patients first consult a Chiropractor because of musculoskeletal pain conditions such a back pain, neck pain, headache or pain in the shoulders, arms or legs. Research has now demonstrated that Chiropractic treatment is as safe and effective as any other treatment approach for most patients with these problems, whether acute (recent pain experienced for only a few days or weeks), or chronic (pain experienced for 12 weeks or more, often for several months or years).
Interestingly, about 25% of Chiropractic patients with musculoskeletal pain experience other specific health benefits after Chiropractic treatment. Some of the more commonly seen improvements are in the respiratory system (easier breathing, improved asthma/allergies), the digestive system (improved digestion, less gastrtis/pain/nausea), the circulatory system (improved circulation, fewer irregularities in the heartbeat) and in the visual and balance systems (less dizziness and improvement of some visual disturbances).
As a result, about 5% of patients now seek Chiropractic treatment first for these, and other non musculoskeletal disorders. Many patients choose to have periodic Chiropractic check-ups and treatment both to prevent pain and disability and to promote general well-being and health.
Most Common Conditions Treated in Chiropractic Practice
1. Lower Back Pain
2. Neck Pain
3. Herniated Discs of the Low Back and Neck
4. Sacroiliac Sprain
5. Migraine and Tension Headache
6. Sciatica
7. Shoulder Pain
8. Scoliosis
9. Hip, Knee and Ankle Pain
10. Sports Injuries
11. Work Injuries
12. Numbness in the Arms and Legs
13. Aches and Pains in Childhood
14. Back Pain Associated with Pregnancy
15. Dizziness and Vertigo
Legal recognition:
The practice of Chiropractic is now recognized and regulated by law in many countries throughout the world. Common features of all licensing laws are primary care (i.e. the right of a patient to consult a Chiropractor directly), and the right and duty to perform a diagnosis. Diagnosis may include the use of X-ray and other diagnostic imaging and tests.