The practice examines the combined effect of these factors on a patient's overall health and the prevention of disease. Chiropractic is based on the theory that our nervous system is the key to maintaining homeostasis, or a healthy balance, in our bodies. Chiropractors use carefully applied hand pressure in a thrusting motion to improve vertebra or joint mobility, which in turn improves nerve function and reduces pain. One theory suggests that chiropractic therapy triggers the release of the body's endorphins, natural painkillers produced in the brain. Chiropractors believe that chiropractic is most effective soon after the patient has experienced pain and before the body deteriorates into a chronic state of disease.
Chiropractors primarily treat patients with conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches.
Chiropractors refer patients to another health care provider if the patient's condition or disease would be better treated through other medical approaches. In the United States, chiropractors treat approximately 10 percent of the adult population each year. Chiropractic is the third largest doctoral-level health profession in the United States, after medicine and dentistry. Chiropractors must pass national board exams and become state licensed in order to practice. Most states also require continuing education and yearly license renewal.