Chiropractic & Manual Therapies

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Chiropractic & Manual Therapies

Chiropractic & Manual Therapies (pronunciation: /ˈkaɪrəˌpraktɪk/ & /ˈmanjʊəl/ /ˈθɛrəpiːz/) is a branch of alternative medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine.

Etymology

The term "chiropractic" comes from the Greek words cheir (hand) and praxis (practice) to describe treatment done by hand or hands-on therapy. "Manual therapies" is a general term for treatments performed with the hands, often relating to issues with the musculoskeletal system.

Related Terms

  • Subluxation: A term used in the chiropractic field to denote the altered position of the vertebra and subsequent functional loss, which determines the location for the spinal manipulation.
  • Spinal Manipulation: A type of manual therapy where a chiropractor uses their hands or a device to apply a controlled force to a joint of the spine.
  • Physical Therapy: A related field that also uses manual therapies, but focuses more broadly on improving mobility and function.
  • Osteopathy: Another related field that uses manual therapies, but also incorporates a holistic approach to healthcare.

Chiropractic & Manual Therapies

Chiropractic & Manual Therapies involve a range of techniques with the aim of reducing pain and improving the functionality of patients. Chiropractors often perform adjustments (manipulations) to the spine or other parts of the body with the goal of correcting alignment problems, reducing pain, and supporting the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Manual therapies in chiropractic care may include massage, stretching, joint mobilization, or joint manipulation. These therapies can help to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, reduce nerve irritation, and enhance healing.

Chiropractic & Manual Therapies are often used to treat back pain, neck pain, pain in the joints of the arms or legs, and headaches. They may also be used in conjunction with other medical treatments.

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