Chiropractic treatment is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. The belief of chiropractic medicine is that the body has the ability to heal itself, if the spine and other parts of the musculoskeletal system are in proper alignment, thereby improving the body’s ability to heal and function.
The role of the chiropractor is to remove any interference that may be preventing the body from healing itself through joint and spine manipulations. Chiropractors, who are trained in chiropractic medicine, provide treatment for many conditions and relief for many types of pain, such as headaches, neck and back pain, shoulder pain, fibromyalgia, and arthritis.
Chiropractic Treatment Methods and Techniques
Below are some of the methods chiropractors use to help manage chronic pain.
- Adjusting the spine and other joints to improve alignment and relieve pressure on nerves, which helps the perception of pain in the body. There are many different chiropractic techniques, and chiropractors may use different combinations of techniques depending on the individual patient’s needs. Some common techniques include:
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- Spinal manipulation – This is the most well-known and commonly used chiropractic technique. It involves using gentle but firm pressure to manipulate the joints of the spine into proper alignment.
- Extremity adjustments – This technique is used to adjust joints in the arms or legs that are not functioning correctly. This can help relieve pain and improve range of motion.
- Manipulating soft tissues to release tension, increase range of motion, and promote healing. Myofascial release is a type of soft tissue therapy involving the application of gentle pressure and stretching to release tightness in muscles and connective tissues (fascia). This can help reduce pain, improve range of motion, and increase blood flow/circulation.
- Providing guidance on posture, ergonomics, exercises, and lifestyle changes that can help manage chronic pain effectively long-term.
- Recommending nutritional supplements or other natural therapies that can support healing and pain relief.
- Working as part of a team of health care providers (if necessary) to create a comprehensive treatment plan for your specific needs.
What is the Training of a Chiropractor?
Chiropractors must complete a four-year undergraduate degree, followed by a four-year Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program. In total, this amounts to eight years of postsecondary education. During their undergraduate studies, future chiropractors will take courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, which are the basic sciences underlying the profession. They also take classes specifically related to chiropractic care, such as human anatomy and physiology. After completing their D.C., many chiropractors choose to pursue additional training and education, in areas such as nutrition, myofascial release therapy, and personal injury.
Chiropractic Treatment in Fort Worth, TX
At Texas Medical Institute, our licensed chiropractor, Dr. Jamie Storey, can create a treatment plan to better manage your chronic pain. Dr. Storey makes your health her priority and brings her years of training to better serve your needs and help you achieve relief from pain. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Storey, call our office today at (817) 615-8633 or use our convenient online request form.
