What Is a Chiropractor?
A physical therapist is a health care professional who uses hands-on treatment to help patients with spine and muscle problems. They often use manual manipulation (called adjustments) to realign joints to decrease pain and improve movement, and may also offer other treatments such as soft-tissue therapy to relax tight muscles, increase mobility and ease spasms, joint bracing/taping such as kinesio taping or exercises and stretches to strengthen and support the joints, reduce muscle tension and improve posture. They can also refer patients to other healthcare professionals.
Managing Stress and Anxiety Through Chiropractic Techniques
Chiropractors often work collaboratively as part of a patient’s circle of care team with physicians, nurse practitioners, physiotherapists, registered massage therapists and midwives. They typically have a four-year postgraduate degree called a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC).
Many people think that chiropractors are solely for back and neck pain, but they treat a lot more. They are trained in over 150 techniques, most of which rely on gentle manipulation. They can treat a wide range of issues such as migraines, headaches, asthma, allergies and even depression. They can also provide valuable information on exercise, diet and stress management.