HEALTH
First published in BHMagazino magazine, May 9, 2010.
Author: Melissa Stoili
This is a relatively simple way to correct mechanical problems of the skeleton, so that we can keep our spine in good condition. Learn how you can stand tall again.
One day your lower back hurts, another day it’s your neck, and the next your upper back. Then it seems as though all the parts of your body are communicating with each other and hurt at the same time. When that happens, you can’t find relief whether you’re standing, sitting, or lying down. You wish a giant would come and step on you, pull you, stretch you out, and finally set you straight. Let’s be realistic, giants don’t exist. But the relief you’re looking for might come from a good chiropractor.
What is it
According to the World Health Organization, chiropractic is a health science that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, as well as their effects particularly on the nervous system and generally on the body. It is an independent health field, fully recognized in developed countries around the world, functioning complementarily to classical medicine. Chiropractic care is now included in European guidelines for the management of low back pain.
The chiropractor applies appropriate forces (spinal adjustments) to the spine, which restore the vertebrae to their correct alignment and proper functional behavior. In this way, joint functional problems are corrected quickly and painlessly, nerves are released, relief is provided, and a general sense of well-being follows.
The first visit
For the chiropractor to be effective, they must assess the mechanical behavior of your skeleton and identify the problem. In combination with information obtained from your orthopedist and your test results, they will be able to determine whether they can help you. They will assess whether your symptoms may be due to some dysfunctional condition of the vertebrae, and then correct it by applying the appropriate therapeutic technique. The process is safe and painless, as it includes a preparatory stage of muscle relaxation, followed by the application of adjustments. During the adjustment, the vertebra is moved in the direction required according to its deviation. At that moment, you may hear a joint sound (the familiar “crack”), which is a completely normal phenomenon. The chiropractor will also provide you with useful and practical advice on posture, how to perform certain movements, what to avoid, and which exercises to do. Care is usually completed within five to ten sessions, but some maintenance may be necessary.
What training is required
The techniques applied by chiropractors absolutely require formal education. Studies require full-time attendance at university institutions abroad, lasting at least five years.
The techniques applied by chiropractors absolutely require formal education. Studies require full-time attendance at university institutions abroad, lasting at least five years.
