INTRODUCTION

Chiropractic involves the treatment of muscles, bones, and joints by manipulation (referred to as adjustments) to improve the functioning of the nervous system and to encourage the body's natural ability of self healing. It is now quite a widely recognized alternative therapy with a great deal of reliable scientific research that supports its claims. In some regions chiropractic treatment may be available under the NHS however this is scarce and it is more likely that chiropractic treatment will have to be sought privately. Here in the UK an initial consultation will usually cost approximately between £30-50, subsequent sessions usually cost around £30-40, cost is dictated by location of the clinic. And the cost for two X-rays which may need to be taken can be around (£35-£50 for four, number and price varies).

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND

Chiropractics date back to the ancient Greek and Chinese civilizations. Chiropractors believe that misalignments ( known as subluxations) of the musculoskeletal system interfere with the body's self-regulating mechanisms causing bodily dysfunction. X-rays may need to be taken to determine the extent of the misalignment of the spine but the treatment does not involve drugs, medicines or preparations of any kind but as stated earlier relies on gentle adjustment of the muscles bones and joints of the body.

A Chiropractor will also advise the patient on other areas of their lifestyle, diet and exercise regime that they feel may be beneficial in helping to relieve symptoms of their condition. Practitioners are also trained to recognize symptoms of more serious conditions such as cancer and diabetes and may refer any patient they feel necessary to a medically trained conventional doctor. It is worth noting that there are, as with any treatment of any sort, some risks associated with chiropractic manipulation including at the extreme strokes and fracture of the vertebrae. In recent studies these risks have shown to be very small with only 1 complication in every 3-4 million manipulations reported, statistics that are far out weighed by the benefits of the treatment.

HISTORY AND BACKGROUND

Chiropractics date back to the ancient Greek and Chinese civilizations. Chiropractors believe that misalignments ( known as subluxations) of the musculoskeletal system interfere with the body's self-regulating mechanisms causing bodily dysfunction. X-rays may need to be taken to determine the extent of the misalignment of the spine but the treatment does not involve drugs, medicines or preparations of any kind but as stated earlier relies on gentle adjustment of the muscles bones and joints of the body. A Chiropractor will also advise the patient on other areas of their lifestyle, diet and exercise regime that they feel may be beneficial in helping to relieve symptoms of their condition. Practitioners are also trained to recognize symptoms of more serious conditions such as cancer and diabetes and may refer any patient they feel necessary to a medically trained conventional doctor. It is worth noting that there are, as with any treatment of any sort, some risks associated with chiropractic manipulation including at the extreme strokes and fracture of the vertebrae. In recent studies these risks have shown to be very small with only 1 complication in every 3-4 million manipulations reported, statistics that are far out weighed by the benefits of the treatment.

Chiropractic can be beneficial for a number of conditions including trapped nerves, sporting injuries and scoliosis, but most notably has been successful at treating lower back pain and tension headaches. It can also aid sporting performance and relieve pain associated with whiplash injuries.

It is important to remember that some alternative therapies such as chiropractics are unsuitable for sufferers of a number of conditions and therefore it is important to consult your doctor before embarking upon any course of treatment such as this. It is also important to ensure that the Chiropractor that is treating you is registered with The General Chiropractic Council (see below) who are responsible for regulation of Chiropractic services.

Terry O'Brien

Back Trouble UK.

www.backtrouble.co.uk

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.chiropractic-uk.co.uk.

REFERENCES

Assendelft WJ, Koes BW, van der Heijden GJ, Bouter LM. (1992)The efficacy of chiropractic manipulation for back pain: blinded review of relevant randomized clinical trials. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1992 Oct, 15, (8), pp. 487-94.