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Frequently asked questions
Chiropractic is an holistic form of healthcare concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on overall health. Chiropractic originated in the United States in 1895. It was founded by D.D.Palmer.
Although some of his writing seems dated one hundred years on, the principles upon which he based Chiropractic are unchanged.
These basic tenets are as follows:
Poor function of the spinal and cranial systems interferes with the nervous system's ability to control and monitor the rest of the body. This limits the body's ability to regulate, repair and heal itself. In a nutshell, poor spinal and cranial function directly compromises the health of the body. Chiropractic aims to promote health by restoring the function of the skeletal and cranial structures. It aims to remove the impediments which limit the body's innate healing ability.
How did Chiropractic originate?
Although joint manipulation was a recognised facet of medicine at the time of Hippocrates, it declined in popularity as the basis of medicine became increasingly pharmaceutical.
D.D.Palmer was a magnetic healer in the United States. In 1895 he found that one could influence the functioning of the nervous system by means of adjusting (manipulating) the spinal vertebrae. He established the basic tenets of Chiropractic which have remained essentially unchanged.
Scientific research over the past century has demonstrated and explained the links between the skeletal system, the nervous system and the regulation of the health of the body. These links are the ones postulated by D.D. Palmer when he "rediscovered" vertebral manipulation and coined the term 'chiropractic'.
How do you judge the level of competence of a chiropractor?
Until recently this was difficult to judge. In 1994, Parliament passed the Chiropractors Act which led to the establishment of the General Chiropractic Council (GCC). This is an independent body established to regulate the profession, to assess each chiropractor's standard of education and competence to practice. As of 14th June 2001 no one may use the title 'Chiropractor' unless they have been assessed by the GCC and are on the Register.
Due to the exacting standards set by the GCC, one may be confident that registered chiropractors are competent and safe.
Does treatment hurt?
Skilful spinal manipulation should not be painful. Sometimes, working on muscles which are in spasm can be uncomfortable and so these procedures are used only when absolutely necessary. Chiropractic treatment is often sought out because of its effectiveness in reducing pain of spinal origin.
Are there any side effects?
Some people experience minor transient effects following treatment. These effects typically may include localised muscle stiffness or discomfort, mild headache or a feeling of fatigue. These feelings tend to be mild in nature and they quickly subside.
