If you have a neck or back problem, whether you’re stiff and tight or in pain or having an issue that’s affecting your ability to function normally, a chiropractor can help.
Chiropractors undertake a five-year university degree and are well qualified to manage a range of musculoskeletal injuries involving the back and neck and associated problems such as headaches and sciatica.
An initial chiropractic consultation involves taking a detailed history of the patient’s complaint and performing an exam of the patient. The history and exam serve multiple vital purposes. They can help the chiropractor work out the
nature of the problem which, in turn, helps inform the chiropractor the best way to manage the problem.
The history and exam also help determine whether further investigation (x-rays, MRI, etc) is warranted. Furthermore, they help a practitioner decide if the problem is within their scope of practice. There are many different reasons for back pain and neck pain and in some instances the most appropriate course of action for the chiropractor is to refer to another practitioner (GP, neurologist, neurosurgeon, pain specialist, etc) for their opinion and management.