Chiropractic Patients Association

Chiropractic is a regulated health profession in the United Kingdom, concerned with the
diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on the function of both the nervous system and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including bone or spinal manipulation or adjustments (World Federation of Chiropractic, 1999).

By restoring normal function to the musculoskeletal system chiropractors can play a major part in relieving disorders and any accompanying pain or discomfort arising from accidents, stress, lack of exercise, poor posture, illness and the every day wear and tear that happens to us all as we grow older and particularly to those who have had a long sporting life.

Chiropractors take an all round approach to health and well-being, which means that they
consider your symptoms in the context of your full medical history, your lifestyle and your personal circumstances.

Why might I go to a chiropractor?

Even though the first thing that may spring to mind is that “chiropractors treat backs” –
which they certainly do very successfully – today’s chiropractors also diagnose and treat
other musculoskeletal disorders as well as a number of other conditions.

Chiropractors primarily treat:

• Spine, neck and shoulder problems
• Joint, posture and muscle problems
• Leg pain and Sciatica
• Sports injuries

Benefits may also be seen for some types of:

• Asthma
• Headaches including migraines
• Infantile colic

Extracted and modified from the pamphlet “What can I expect when I see a chiropractor?”,
published by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and available from them at
44 Wicklow Street, London, WC1X 9HL.

See also website: www.gcc-uk.org