Chiropractic (Spine Health)

What is Chiropractic? Back and spine disorders that negatively affect quality of life are common health problems for many people. In fact, 4 out of 5 people suffer from neck, back, and lower back pain. A method that has been gaining attention in recent times for the treatment of these issues is "Chiropractic." The term "chiropractic" comes from the Greek word meaning "treatment by hand." In this method, the aim is to protect the body’s health and enhance its resistance through natural means by manually intervening in the spine. The key principle of chiropractic treatment is to increase the patient's functional capacity, thereby contributing to their life activities and overall quality of life. In this regard, the goal is to return the spine to a healthy position, unlock restricted joints, and relieve the pressure on pinched nerves. There is no surgical intervention, making it a non-invasive method. This protects the patient from the potential side effects of surgery, providing significant comfort and targeted treatment for the patient’s condition.

How Common is Chiropractic?

Since its initial use, chiropractic treatment has become increasingly common in the treatment of musculoskeletal systems, especially for acute and chronic mechanical spine disorders. It is relatively new in Turkey, but it is legally recognized in over 100 countries, including the United States. For example, the American Chiropractic Association has stated that chiropractic care should be the first option for treating head, neck, back, and lower back pain.

HOW DOES CHIROPRACTIC WORK?

Chiropractic treatment relies on the healing potential and ability of the spine and the nervous system (spinal cord) that passes through it, and in fact, the treatment utilizes this potential. The goal of chiropractic practices aimed at enhancing the body’s self-healing ability is to remove or correct imbalances in the spine and subluxations (also known as spinal joint dislocations or misalignments) through spinal manipulation (manual adjustments, special instruments, or special tables are used for spinal adjustments or correction). In addition, spinal manipulation, device-assisted spinal manipulation, spinal mobilization, lifestyle education, and soft tissue therapies are modalities used in chiropractic treatment. Besides its therapeutic properties, chiropractic treatment is also applied for prevention purposes. As is known, chiropractic treatment involves applying techniques to the spinal system that communicates with the brain and maintains this communication system. Nerve impulses that travel from the brain to the body are transmitted through the spinal cord, and they control all the structures in the organism. Any abnormalities in the natural structure of the spine cause deficiencies in the communication network between the brain and the body, leading to an inability to maintain bodily functions. Chiropractic treatment intervenes in these unnatural conditions in the spine, restoring the body’s ability to control its disrupted functions through the nervous system.

Who is it Applied To?

Chiropractic practices are increasingly accepted by society, and their widespread use supports their effectiveness. According to patient surveys, chiropractic treatment is used more frequently than other medical fields, with a high satisfaction rate. Today, chiropractic applications are most commonly used by adults aged 18-65, particularly those in the workforce. However, with caution, chiropractic can also be applied to children and the elderly. In chiropractic treatments, post-treatment recommendations are just as important as the treatment itself, regardless of age. This is because a fast recovery is only possible through following post-treatment guidelines. Supporting the treatment with physical therapy, appropriate exercises, injections to the affected area, and teaching daily life activities increases the success of the treatment and extends the duration of benefits.

In Which Diseases is It Applied?

"Chiropractors can treat more than 90% of all spine disorders. A significant percentage of chiropractic patients in the U.S. (20%-30%) improve after 11 sessions."

HOW LONG HAS CHIROPRACTIC BEEN PRACTICED?

Looking at the history of chiropractic treatment, we see that it is rooted in "semi-mystical concepts." The birth year of chiropractic treatment is 1895, and it is credited to D.D. Palmer, who is also known for founding the first chiropractic school.

Last Updated Date: 21 September 2023

Publication Date: 21 September 2023