What is Chiropractic? An Evidence-Based Approach to Health

What is Chiropractic? An Evidence-Based Approach to Health

 What is Chiropractic Care? An Evidence-Based Approach to Health

 

Chiropractic is a healthcare profession rooted in evidence-based practices that focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those affecting the spine. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal manipulation and other joint and soft tissue manipulation. Chiropractic treatments aim to restore spinal function, relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being—all without drugs or surgery.

 

 

A regulated profession

Chiropractic is a growing profession with over 3,800 Chiropractors practising in the UK. It is important to know that Chiropractors are regulated by a professional body meaning that they adhere to strict codes of professionalism and patient care, like dentists and GPs. The title of ‘Chiropractor’ is protected by law such that a person is not allowed to call themselves a Chiropractor in the UK without being registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC), which sets standards of professional conduct and education.

 

Chiropractic is a regulated profession adhering to strict codes of professional conduct, patient care, and education.

 

A very necessary healthcare provider

In 2020, an estimated 28.9% of the UK population live with a musculoskeletal (MSK) condition. That amounts to 17.8 million people with some form of joint or spine pain. MSK conditions also account for a significant proportion of GP visits with around 20% of appointments being MSK-related. Chiropractors are in a unique position to help as they are highly skilled and educated to assess and treat a wide range of neuro-musculoskeletal conditions as primary healthcare providers operating mostly in private practise.

 

 

How Chiropractic Care Works

Chiropractors treat the neuro-musculoskeletal system. The treatment is directed at joints that are not moving appropriately, resulting in maladaptive changes in the spine and nervous system. Chiropractors do not 'put bones back into place' - this is a common misconception. 

A specific, controlled thrust is applied to the joint to ‘reset’ neural mechanisms and allow the joint to move and function better. This is called an ‘adjustment’. The adjustment is low amplitude, meaning it is quick, but not forceful. Often the thrust is no more than a bicep or triceps flick. The subtle "popping" sound during an adjustment is just gas releasing from the joint – similar to cracking your knuckles. It’s called 'cavitation', NOT bones snapping back into place.

 

What chiropractors do during an adjustment is restore proper joint motion, reduce tension, and improve nervous system function. When joints become restricted or don’t move as they should, it can lead to discomfort, muscle tension, and reduced mobility.

 

Benefits of Chiropractic treatment

Chiropractic is evidence based and effective against complaints of the musculoskeletal system. Treatment can relieve pain – including neck and back pain, headache, altered sensation, muscle stiffness and spasm. The treatment can also increase mobility, improve function, and reduce or eliminate the need for drugs or surgery.

Chiropractic care has been widely studied and recognized as an effective treatment for several conditions, including:

Low Back Pain & Neck Pain

  • Effective for reducing acute low back pain and neck pain

Headaches & Migraines

  • Headache relief and migraine prevention

Sciatica

  •  Improve sciatica without medications.

Joint Dysfunction

  • Addresses pain and restricted mobility in areas like the shoulders, hips, knees, and wrists.

Sports Injuries

  • Recover faster, reduce injury risk and improve joint mechanics
  • Manage minor sports injuries

Chronic Pain Conditions

  • Can help with stiffness and discomfort linked to osteoarthritis (OA)

 

 

Is Chiropractic Care Safe?

Chiropractic care is recognized as a safe and effective treatment for musculoskeletal pain when performed by a licensed professional. According to a recent review published in the British Medical Journal, adverse effects are extremely rare and typically mild, such as temporary soreness. Compared to the risks associated with long-term use of pain medications or surgical interventions, chiropractic care remains a low-risk, high-reward option.

 

Chiropractic is safe, effective, and evidence-based.

 

What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit

During your first visit, a chiropractor will:

  • Conduct a comprehensive assessment (medical history, physical exam, movement and functional assessment).
  • Provide a personalized treatment plan that may include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and rehabilitative exercises.
  • Offer lifestyle recommendations on posture, ergonomics, exercise, and nutrition to support long-term health.

 

 

Who Can Benefit from Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is suitable for:

  • Individuals with acute or chronic back/neck pain.
  • Athletes seeking performance enhancement or injury recovery.
  • Supportive care throughout pregnancy to help manage back and pelvic pain.
  • Individuals with chronic pain due to osteoarthritis.
  • Older individuals looking to improve their mobility and balance.
  • Anyone wanting to reduce tension and stiffness in their body.
  • Anyone seeking a non-invasive, drug-free approach to pain relief and wellness.

 

 

Conclusion: The Role of Chiropractic Care in Modern Healthcare

Chiropractic care is a safe, evidence-based practice with proven benefits for managing pain, improving mobility, and enhancing overall quality of life. By addressing the root cause of discomfort, chiropractors help patients achieve better health without the risks of medication or surgery.

If you’re looking for a natural, effective way to relieve pain and improve your health, chiropractic care may be the solution. Consult a licensed chiropractor to learn how personalized treatments can help you move better, feel better, and live better.

Have questions about chiropractic care? Let’s discuss in the comments below!

#ChiropracticCare #EvidenceBasedHealth #PainRelief #SpinalHealth #Wellness

 

 

References:

  1. https://www.gcc-uk.org/education
  2. https://bjgp.org/content/70/suppl_1/bjgp20X711497
  3. Gorrell LM, Brown BT, Engel R, et al. Reporting of adverse events associated with spinal manipulation in randomised clinical trials: an updated systematic review BMJ https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/13/5/e067526.abstract
  4. Pankrath N, Nilsson S, Ballenberger N. Adverse Events After Cervical Spinal Manipulation - A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Pain Physician. 2024 May;27(4) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38805524/
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