Overview and History
The term "chiropractic" combines the Greek words cheir (hand) and praxis (action) to describe a treatment done by hand. Hands-on therapy–especially adjustment of the spine–is central to chiropractic care. Chiropractic is part of the Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) group, and is based on these key concepts:
- The body has a powerful self-healing ability.
- The body's structure (primarily that of the spine) and its function are closely related, and this relationship affects health.
- Chriopractic aims to normalize the relationship between structure and function and assist the body as it heals.
What To Expect From Chiropractic Visits
During the initial visit, chiropractors typically take a health history and perform a physical examination, with a special emphasis on the spine. Other examinations or tests such as x-rays may also be performed. If chiropractic treatment is considered appropriate, a treatment plan will be developed.
During followup visits, practitioners may perform one or more of the many different types of adjustments used in chiropractic care. Given mainly to the spine, a chiropractic adjustment (sometimes referred to as a manipulation) involves using the hands or a device to apply gentle, controlled movement to a joint. The goal is to increase the range and quality of motion in the area being treated and to aid in restoring health. Chiropractic doctors relieve pressure on spinal nerves to allow the brain to fully control the body, therefore decreasing healing time.
Chiropractors may combine the use of spinal adjustments with several other treatments and approaches such as:
- Ice
- Hydrotherapy
- Electrical stimulation
- Rest
- Rehabilitative exercise
- Counseling about diet, weight loss, and other lifestyle factors
- Dietary supplements.
Insurance Coverage
Compared with other CAM therapies, insurance coverage for chiropractic services is extensive. Many HMOs (health maintenance organizations) and private health care plans cover chiropractic treatment, as do state health plans. Chiropractors can bill Medicare, and many states cover chiropractic treatment under Medicaid. If you have health insurance, check whether chiropractic services are covered before you seek treatment. If you have health insurance, you may be able to use it rather than pay out of pocket.
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