The easy answer is: a lot!
The goals of chiropractic treatment are relief of acute pain, management of chronic pain, education of patients on self-care and prevention of further injury or pain.
Chiropractic care can be a very effective element of pain relief treatment, particularly when it is a component of a multi-pronged treatment plan. Chiropractic care is particularly appropriate in treating the following conditions:
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Back Pain
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Neck Pain
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Headaches
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Disc Injuries
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Pinched Nerves
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Sciatica
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Radiating Pain
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Strains and Sprains
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Muscle and Joint Problems
Chiropractors utilize a variety of techniques to obtain results for their patients.
The chiropractic treatment that people seem to be the most familiar with is chiropractic adjustment and manipulation. This is one of the most effective tools for pain reduction that a chiropractor can offer. Indeed, manual manipulation can give more relief, and lasting relief, than other therapeutic interventions, including drugs, particularly in the case of acute musculoskeletal pain.
Other treatments include:
Disc Compression/Flexion Distraction/Cox Therapy are related manipulation treatments that are utilized to decompress spinal joints and discs. A specialized piece of equipment, the Hill AirFlex table, allows us to coordinate hands on treatment with decompression traction to the spine. This technique can be used for treatment with disc problems, facet joint syndrome, lumbar stenosis, scoliosis and spondylolisthesis.
Massage Therapy/Trigger Point Therapy/Myofascial Release, Active Release Technique: These hands-on techniques are applied to areas of muscular pain and tension. They are used to help mobilize the soft tissues and adhesions, and include deep pressure and stretching procedures applied to sensitive points that are commonly found in the muscles.
Joint Mobilization Therapy: This therapy involves a deep stretching movement applied to the joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons and discs. These treatments work to restore mobility, range of motion, relax tight muscles, and help limit disability and pain.
McKenzie Technique: This patient education regimen includes teaching patients back care basics, correct posture principles and specialized stretching and exercises to help prevent and care for neck and back-related pain. Through individualized instruction patients learn ways to apply self-care treatments at home to help facilitate their rehabilitation and recovery.
Spinal Core Stabilization: These are exercises and stretches, prescribed to help strengthen the muscles that support the spine for improved control of body movements. Stabilization exercise works to help relieve pain, improve flexibility and limit the chance for re-injury and further bouts of pain.
