Chiropractic
is a complementary and alternative health care profession
which focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing
mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system,
their effects on the nervous system, and on general
health.
Chiropractic contends that spinal joint misalignments,
which chiropractors call vertebral subluxations, can
interfere with the nervous system and result in diminished
health. Mainstream medicine does not believe that
vertebral subluxations affect general health and differentiates
it from the medical use of the term subluxation.
Chiropractors may specialize in treating low back
problems or sports injuries, or may combine chiropractic
with manipulation of the extremities, physiotherapy
modalities, nutrition, or exercises to increase spinal
strength or improve overall health. They may also
use other complementary and alternative methods as
a part of a holistic treatment approach. Chiropractors
are not trained or licensed to prescribe drugs. Depending
on the country or state in which the Chiropractic
school is located, they may train in minor surgery.
All are trained to recognize signs of cancer, diabetes,
and infectious diseases and refer these patients to
medical physicians. There is evidence both for and
against spinal manipulation, a technique used by chiropractors,
in the treatment of acute low back pain, tension headaches
and certain musculoskeletal issues.[1] There are no
objective controlled trials with definitive conclusions
for or against chiropractic claims concerning other
health benefit
