What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic (Greek – to do by hand) holds to the universal philosophy that the body has an in-born ability to heal itself. Therefore, as a self-regulating organism, every cell, tissue, organ and system of the body is under the control of the Nervous System (Brain, Spinal Cord & Nerves). Interference to the nervous system affects the normal controlling and regulation of bodily functions. Nerve interference also commonly presents in the form of a Chiropractic or Vertebral Subluxation (a biomechanical dysfunction of the spine). This, may present as pain, swelling, altered blood flow, muscle tension, reduced motion and a resulting nerve dysfunction. Therefore the practice of Chiropractic focuses on the close relationship between structure (the Spine, Pelvis and Extremities), function (Nervous System) and how that relationship affects the preservation and restoration of health, through the adjustment (or removal) of Vertebral Subluxation’s to the Spinal Column, Pelvis and/or Skeletal joints.

A Chiropractic Adjustment, delivered by hand only, is a specific and controlled thrust to an involved Spinal / Skeletal joint. An adjustment restores normal motion to the affected joint and especially aims to remove nervous system interference. The restoration of normal motion subsequently results in decreased swelling. Restoration of the normal relationship between the structure and function of the body is essentially the ultimate goal.

Chiropractic is the Art, Science and Philosophy of locating and correcting areas of Nervous System dysfunction. It therefore looks to correct the CAUSE of disease rather than just a treatment of the symptoms.

According to BJ Palmer, a Chiropractor is, “One who knows the principles and practice of Chiropractic. One who can locate the place of interference of transmission. One who can ascertain the abnormal position of the vertebra subluxated. And is therefore one who has the ability to change its abnormal position to a normal position, at the place where the interference has been proven to exist, with his or her hands”

– BJ Palmer (The Developer of Chiropractic).