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What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a hands-on therapy based on the theory that many medical disorders (especially disorders of the nervous system) may be caused by vertebral subluxations, or dislocations in the spine. Chiropractic medicine originated in the late 1800s in the United States. About 12% to 15% of the population of the United States receives treatment from chiropractors.
Chiropractic treatments usually involve adjusting the joints and bones in a person's spine using twisting, pulling, or pushing movements. Some chiropractors use heat, electrical stimulation, or ultrasound to help relax the person's muscles before doing a spinal adjustment.
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What is Chiropractic used for?
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The primary theory behind chiropractic therapy is to help the body heal itself by correcting dislocation of the joints, particularly the bones of the spine (vertebrae).
Chiropractic therapy has been shown to be effective in treating low back pain and helpful in treating neck pain and headaches. The effects of chiropractic treatment on nonspinal conditions, such as high blood pressure or ear infections, have not been scientifically proven.
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Is Chiropractic Safe?
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Chiropractic treatment can be a safe treatment for certain conditions when done by a certified and experienced chiropractor who correctly diagnoses the problem. However, if an incorrect diagnosis is made, appropriate medical treatment may be delayed. Although rare, the most serious risks associated with chiropractic treatment are stroke and spinal cord injury after cervical (neck) manipulation.
Other side effects may include minor pain or discomfort at the point of manipulation, headaches, and fatigue. Most of these effects resolve within a day.
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Chiropractic students must have a minimum of 2 years of undergraduate study before applying to a chiropractic college. Upon completion of a 4-year program, the chiropractic student receives a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree. Chiropractors are licensed in every state and must pass an examination with the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
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For More Information...
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
(NCCAM), within the National Institutes of Health, is a government
agency that provides information about and sponsors research in
complementary therapies. You may call toll-free (1-888-644-6226)
or visit the NCCAM Web site at http://nccam.nih.gov for more
information.
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