About Chiropractic Care

Who and What Are Chiropractors?

Chiropractors in Australia are a nationally registered and a regulated health care profession. Chiropractic is a drug and surgery free modality of treatment concerned with the diagnosis, management and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system; this includes the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health.

It is based on the teachings of Galen and Hippocrates and the premise that the body can respond appropriately to its environment provided that the nervous system is free of interference. This was further developed by Palmer which lead to a focus on the spinal column and its functioning.

In summary, chiropractors focus on the detection and correction of aberrant spinal function and its subsequent effect on how the nervous system controls and coordinates the body in response to its environment.

In Australia, chiropractors are educated in the University sector at an under-graduate and post-graduate level and there is a growing research and evidence base not only in Australia but through international federations. As with other healthcare professions, there are internationally and nationally recognised standards of qualification to enable practice in Australia and this is part of the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme.

Commonly Helped Conditions

When you think of chiropractic you may think about lower back pain. You are not wrong! Chiropractic is an excellent treatment for back pain. However, chiropractors help more than just lower back pain. A wide range of musculoskeletal disorders commonly benefit from chiropractic care. We commonly help with:

• Neck pain
• Hip pain
• Some types of headaches and migraines
• Sporting injuries
• Postural complaints
• Aches and pains
• Flexibility and muscle tightness
• Other musculoskeletal health complaints

What is an Adjustment?

There are many ways to adjust the spine. Chiropractors may use their hands; or have the aid of special adjusting tables; or have you lie on pelvic blocks; or use specialised hand held instruments. Which technique is chosen is dependent on your individual circumstances – an elderly women, an elite footballer and a baby will obviously require very different approaches.

After years of university training and clinical experience, each chiropractor becomes highly skilled in the delivery of a variety of adjusting approaches.