Unit 4
Chiropractic

“Chiropractic is the art and science of adjusting the spine and other bony articulations of the body in order to restore and maintain normal structure and function in the nervous system” (Magill’s, 1996). The aim of chiropractic treatment is to diagnose alterations in normal body mechanics and to restore normal function. Chiropractic has been shown to be as effective as conventional therapy in the treatment of lower back pain. Some chiropractors believe that all diseases manifest themselves through imbalances in the spine, whereas others limit themselves to the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.

Objectives

When you have completed this unit, you should be able to

1. define “chiropractic,” and discuss the nature of this therapy.
2. identify situations where chiropractic is commonly used.
3. determine the effectiveness of chiropractic by analysing the available research.
4. identify trends and issues related to the use of chiropractic.