What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic specialises in mechanical disorders of joints, particularly those of the spine, and their effects on the nervous system.  The term chiropractic is derived from two Greek works and denotes treatment by hand or manipulation.  Chiropractic, which celebrated its centenary in 1995, is now the third largest independent primary healing profession in the western world, after medicine and dentistry.

Chiropractors provide care for patients of all ages, who present with a range of acute and chronic conditions.  As well as advice about self-help, exercise, diet and lifestyle, chiropractors often provide support for pain management and active rehabilitation.

Chiropractic is a fast-growing independent health care profession in the United Kingdom and it is regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).

Chiropractors take an integrated and holistic approach to the health needs of their patients, considering physical, psychological and social factors.  They provide care and support by reducing pain and disability and by restoring normal function to people with neuro-musculoskeletal disorders.

A Medical Research Council clinical trial and its follow-up, reported in the British Medical Journal in 1990 and 1995, found that chiropractic treatment of back pain was more effective than hospital outpatient treatment.  The European Commission Acute Low Back Pain Guidelines includes manipulation as an effective treatment for low back pain.

For more information on chiropractic take a look at our FAQ page.