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Chiropractic
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Complementary Alternative Therapies

Chiropractic

Chiropractic is a health care profession focused on correcting alignment problems and easing pain through spinal adjustments and other supportive treatments.

Overview

Chiropractic is a health care profession where practitioners perform adjustments, or manipulations, to the spine or other parts of the body. The goal is to correct alignment problems, ease pain, and support the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Treatment Methods

In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may use other treatments, including:

  • Heat and ice
  • Electrical stimulation
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Rehabilitative and general exercise
  • Counseling about diet, weight loss, and other lifestyle factors
  • Dietary supplements

Common Conditions

Many people visit chiropractors for the treatment of low back pain, neck pain, and headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most patients begin to notice some relief within the first few visits, often within one to two weeks. However, the timeline varies significantly based on the severity of the condition, whether the pain is acute or chronic, and how consistently you attend appointments. For chronic issues, a course of care may last several weeks to months, with adjustments becoming less frequent as the spine stabilizes and pain decreases. Are chiropractic adjustments safe for everyone, or are there specific groups who should avoid them?::While generally safe for most adults, chiropractic care is not appropriate for everyone. Individuals with severe osteoporosis, spinal cord compression, active spinal infections, or certain types of arthritis may be at higher risk for injury. It is crucial to disclose your full medical history, including any previous surgeries or bone density issues, so the chiropractor can determine if manual manipulation is safe or if gentler techniques are required. What should I expect during my first visit to a chiropractor besides the physical adjustment?::The initial appointment usually involves a comprehensive intake process that includes a detailed health history, a physical examination, and possibly diagnostic imaging like X-rays to assess spinal alignment. The chiropractor will discuss your specific goals and pain levels. If a treatment plan is agreed upon, the first adjustment may occur during this visit or be scheduled for a follow-up, allowing time for you to ask questions and understand the proposed approach. Can chiropractic care help with conditions other than back and neck pain, such as headaches or sciatica?::Yes, chiropractors frequently treat headaches, particularly tension headaches and migraines linked to cervical spine dysfunction, as well as sciatica caused by nerve compression in the lower back. They may also address joint issues in the shoulders, hips, and knees. However, they do not treat internal organ diseases or conditions that require surgical intervention, so it is important to maintain coordination with your primary care physician for a holistic health strategy.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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