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Background

Chiropractic is derived from the Greek Keir ( hand ) and Praktikos ( practise ). Hippocrates in 400 BC practised spinal manipulation for back problems. However Chiropractic was primarily developed by Palmer in 1895, who was an osteopath and healer. Over the years his findings convinced him that the basis of all disease lay in the spine. "Luxated bones press against nerves. By their displacement they elongate the pathway of the nerve".

The aim of chiropractic treatment is to restore the normal functioning of the spine. The nervous system can then work optimally, healing can take place and any pain subside. The chiropractor "mobilises" and "manipulates" with her hands on a particular vertebra. The force is a controlled one with a depth and a specific speed. The chiropractor is primarily involved with problems in the lower back, the neck, and the chest area, and also aches and pains of the extremities. In fact any muscle or joint related problem may be addressed.

What can be treated ?

Used almost entirely to treat musculo skeletal complaints by adjusting muscles, tendons and joints. For example, dizziness, migraine and lack of coordination may be traced back to a subluxation at C1 vertebra in the spine. Acute low back pain, neck pain, headaches and back pain associated with irregular periods improve on chiropractic.

What does the treatment involve ?

The first consultation is usually between 20 - 45 minutes. The chiropracter first takes a history and examines the area of concern.This usually requires you to undress and lie on a couch. He may order X-rays and laboratory tests. If suitable your treatment will consist of vigorous massage and manipulation.This consists of sharp thrusts across the involved joints. Some short lived pain may occur. An emerging treatment is active rehabilitation based around fitness and endurance regimes tailored to your specific complaint.

Follow up sessions may last around 20 minutes, the interval usually being one week. The number of treatment session varies, 6-10 being the average. Once the condition has resolved further follow up may be recommended to avoid the condition recurring.

Is it safe ?

Generally yes

High velocity thrusts should not be used if you are suffering from acute arthritis, acute fracture and dislocation, ligament rupture and instability, unstable odontoid peg at the top of the spine, infections, vertebrobasilar insufficiency (trapped arteries in the spine), acute myelopathy and spinal cord compression. Damage to the major arteries supplying the brain, resulting in death have been reported.

What is the evidence ?

Low back pain - Waddell G et al. Low back pain evidence review. London: Royal College of General Practitioners. Febuary 1999

Neck pain - Hurwitz E et al. Manipulation and mobilization of the cervical spine. A systemic review of the literature. Spine 1996;21:1746-59

Migraine - Parker GB et al A controlled trial of cervical manipulation of migraine. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Medicine 1978;8(6):589-93

How to find a qualified therapist

General Chiropractic Council
344-354 Grey's Inn Rd
London WC1X 8BP

www.gcc-uk.org

Tel: 0845 601 1796