Chiropractic Practice Defined

by Dr. Richard L. Cole, D.C., DACNB

Chiropractic practice is a system based on the idea that the structural integrity of the human frame is related to how our bodies function and to overall health. It is grounded in the idea that proper alignment of our muscles and bones is essential for good health.

Chiropractic physicians use many techniques to ensure this, including manual therapy of the spinal column, human frame, and adjacent tissues to correct neurological, vascular, articular, and postural problems. The therapeutic regimen chiropractic doctors prescribe often will include physical therapy, rehabilitative exercises, and nutritional supplements – all to help the patient regain and maintain a healthy balance between his or her neurological system, muscles, and bones.

Chiropractic physicians are trained in diagnosis methods, and use physical, orthopedic, neurological, and laboratory tests to evaluate their patients. They use X-rays to evaluate the spine for possible abnormalities and to analyze spinal curvatures for postural balance. They may also use such imaging techniques as MRI and CT scans to rule out disease or to evaluate disc lesions of the spine.

Conditions proven to respond to a regimen of chiropractic care include acute and chronic low back and neck pain, headaches, disc disease, and arm, leg, and rib pains. Patients with “radiating” pain often associated with such conditions as fibromyalgia, and arthritis have also benefited from chiropractic treatment, studies show. Preliminary studies indicate that other non-musculoskeletal conditions may respond to chiropractic therapeutics, as well. As studies prove the benefits of chiropractic care, we’re seeing a rise in team approaches to health conditions, with medical, chiropractic, and other health practitioners working together to help the patient.

Chiropractic physicians are licensed practitioners who must complete university and doctorate-level studies. To be licensed to practice in Tennessee , a doctor of chiropractic must pass five examinations from the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners to ensure clinical competency. Some chiropractic physicians obtain fellowship training and board certification in subspecialties such as neurology, orthopedics, rehabilitation, sports injuries, and pain management.

Chiropractic treatment is reimbursed by most health insurance carriers including the Medicare and TennCare systems. Cost-effectiveness of this care has been demonstrated especially in the treatment of acute low back pain when compared with other therapies. The U.S. Agency for Healthcare Policy and Research determined spinal manipulation to be of only three therapies supported by medical literature, along with exercise and ibuprofen.

Modern chiropractic physicians view themselves as integral partners with medical physicians for the management of a patient’s health concerns. They strive to work with other health professionals for the ultimate care of the patient.