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.