The Philosophy Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts, which is concerned with human health and disease processes. Doctors of Chiropractic consider humans as an integrated being and give special attention to the physiological and biochemical aspects including structural, spinal, musculoskeletal, neurological, vascular, nutritional, emotional and environmental relationships. The primary belief is in natural and conservative methods of health care. Doctors of Chiropractic have a deep respect for the human body's ability to heal itself. These doctors devote careful attention to the biomechanics, structure and function of the spine, its effects on the musculoskeletal and neurological systems, and the role played by the proper function of these systems in the preservation and restoration of health. A Doctor of Chiropractic is one who is involved in the treatment and prevention of disease, as well as the promotion of public health, and a wellness approach to patient health care. Rehabilitation Chiropractic Rehabilitation Chiropractic is a specialty branch of Chiropractic which focuses on injuries and conditions unique to the active patient, as well as promoting principles of physical fitness. Restoring kinetic chain functioning is fundamental to the sports or rehabilitation chiropractor. Manual methods are used, such as spinal manipulation, extremity manipulation and mobilization, and myofascial release and muscle energy techniques. Exercise programs focus on stabilizing posture by addressing issues such as balance, core, stretching tightened postural muscles and strengthening reciprocally weakened muscles. The concepts can be applied to everyone, of course, not just the athlete. The Art The chiropractor’s primary modality is a joint manipulation procedure typically referred to as an “adjustment." Using specific forces applied to the patient’s body the chiropractor moves joints and the surrounding soft tissue through specific ranges of motion in an attempt to restore normal joint and soft tissue function. Frequently an audible “click” is heard and a release of tension in the joint is felt during the adjustment. Chiropractors typically incorporate other treatment to support the effectiveness of the adjustment. These treatments commonly include therapeutic exercises and stretches, soft tissue mobilization, therapeutic ultrasound, electrical stimulation, diet recommendations, heat and cold, and instructions for home treatment and prevention. The Science A Medline search on 02/06/2005 found 3,213 citations and 203 randomized clinical trials under the heading ”chiropractic." Of the 203 randomized clinical trials, 54 were studies of chiropractic treatment efficacy for common conditions. More information can be found at the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Chiropractic Providers There are 17 board-approved chiropractic colleges throughout the United States and Canada. At least two and a half years of undergraduate education are required for admittance to a chiropractic program. Once accepted, students can expect to be in school for three and a half to five years. The curriculum includes more than 2,000 study hours of biological and clinical sciences, more than 1,000 hours of chiropractic sciences, and at least 900 hours of clinical practice and patient care. Internships typically last one full year and are usually completed during the final year of school at a local clinic or chiropractic facility. After the fourth trimester, students are eligible to receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology. After completing all academic requirements, the Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) is conferred. Postgraduate specialty board certification is available after two to four years of additional study including at least 300 hours of class time and passage of a specialty examination in such fields as orthopaedics, rehabilitation, neurology, sports chiropractic, forensics, nutrition and pediatrics. CIM Practitioner |
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