Chiropractic care deals with the spinal column, the nervous system, and body structure. Chiropractic care is not only concerned with back pain, but with the prevention of back injuries, scoliosis (an S-shaped curvature of the spine), and the maintenance of physical well being for adults and children.
A visit to the chiropractor involves an examination of the spine column, and specific tests for spinal motion and muscular tension. In addition to treatments called "adjustments", and therapy for the spine, Chiropractors provide guidance about nutrition and proper exercise and stretching techniques. Childcare providers regularly place tremendous strain on their backs because of constant bending and lifting. Chiropractic care can not only help ease the aches and pains associated with bathing, lifting, carrying, and playing with children, but can also reduce tension.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care:
Do chiropractors have Medical (M.D.) degrees?
Chiropractors have Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degrees granted from chiropractic colleges. Chiropractic education and medical education are similar in some respects and different in others because chiropractors do not prescribe drugs.
Is Chiropractic Care safe?
Chiropractic is among the safest of the healing arts.
What is an adjustment?
An adjustment is a manual thrust with a set amount of force in a specific direction on the spine to restore proper motion and position. It is a quick and painless procedure.
At what age can chiropractic care begin?
Newborns can receive chiropractic care. Just as children regularly visit their pediatrician, children should also begin receiving chiropractic care early to foster healthy physical development.
What types of stretching exercises can I do to relax and prevent back injuries?
Here are four basic stretching exercises that are safe for all ages, when done slowly and carefully.
1.Relaxercisers. A good set to start with. Lie flat on your back with knees bent.
a) Flatten the small of your back by tightening up your stomach muscles and tilting your pelvis up. Hold 10 seconds. Relax. Repeat 5-10 times.
b) Slide one leg forward until it lies flat on the floor or mat. Then drag your leg back to the bent position. Repeat 5 times with each leg.
c) Bend each arm at the elbow and then let it drop slowly to the mat. Repeat five times.
d) Shrug shoulders without lifting them from the mat. Repeat several times.
e) Slowly let your head roll from side to side. Repeat 3 times.
2.Back/Leg Stretch. Lie flat on your back. Bring one knee toward your chest. Then extend your leg slowly toward the ceiling, pointing your toes. Lower the leg to the mat slowly. Do each leg and repeat this time flexing your foot as it points to the ceiling.
3.Shoulder Stretches. Loosen your shoulders by:
a)"shrugging" slowly raise your shoulders towards your ears, holding for 5 seconds and then slowly lower them, and
b) with arms extended, pull back your shoulder blades first, then open them. Repeat 5-10 times.
4.Torso Stretches. With your feet 12 inches apart, arch your arms over your head. Slowly bend to one side, hold for 5-10 seconds and return. Then repeat on the other side. Work up to 8 repetitions. Now reach for the stars with one arm, while extending the opposite arm and leg out to the side. Hold for 3 seconds and repeat 3 times. Reverse arms and legs and repeat on the other side 3 times.