What is Chiropractic?

The word “chiropractic” comes from the Greek words cheir (hand) and praxis (action), and simply means “done by hand.” Chiropractic is a healthcare practice focused on restoring, preserving, and optimizing health by natural hands-on care.

Chiropractors are knowledgeable about all areas of the musculoskeletal system. Because they are spinal experts, they can manipulate the spine in order to take pressure off of nerves and discs, which is often the cause of pain in many areas of the body. The goal of chiropractic is to deliver optimal health with an approach that doesn’t require drugs or surgery.

The Basic Philosophy of Chiropractic

When inquiring patients ask us for a chiropractor definition, we tell them that doctors of chiropractic are licensed professionals who have an appreciation for the capabilities of the human body. The body naturally seeks proper balance among all of its systems, and wants all of these systems to work together. Proper structure is necessary for proper function, and if structure is impaired by injury or stress, the entire body’s ability to balance and function can be compromised.

Nerves, muscles, discs, joints and tendons are all parts of the muskuloskeletal system. Chiropractors know how to relieve pressure in these areas, improve mobility, and relieve pain because they are spine experts. With manual manipulation, they can make adjustments to the spine so that all of these parts are put back into the places where they belong.

Since chiropractors believe in the body’s natural abilities to fight off infection, they take a holistic approach when it comes to diet and exercise. Eating the right foods that the body needs for optimal functioning, and staying active as the body was meant to be can keep us well. Doctors of chiropractic can make recommendations for whole foods filled with vitamins and nutrients, and fitness programs that are right for each age group and ability level.