Chiropractors are musculoskeletal practitioners who mainly treat back pain and neck pain, and associated issues including sciatica, headaches, migraine, shoulder pain and hip pain. Chiropractors can also help with spinal problems that may not be necessarily producing pain but may be affecting a person’s ability to function normally in their daily life. For example, poor posture at the computer.
Chiropractors use a broad range of techniques to help with back and neck problems.
At the Police Road Chiro, there is an evidence-based approach to care which means there is an attempt to combine the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values. Treatments are usually a combination of muscle work (deep tissue massage, trigger point release therapy, and stretching), and work on the spinal joints (mobilisation and manipulation). Patients are advised on stretching and strengthening exercises to do at home
Chiropractors advise on rehabilitation exercises and posture improvement techniques that can aid back and neck strengthening and improve posture for the longer term.
A further comment on manipulation of the back: Many people are aware that chiropractors do spinal manipulation for treatment of back pain. Spinal manipulation is sometimes referred to as ‘back-cracking’ because there is often an audible crack/click that is produced with the technique. This sound occurs because of gas being released at the joint – a normal physiological occurrence.
In recent years, there have been many videos appearing online in social media and video-sharing platforms showing these ‘back-cracking’ techniques being performed. Given the harsh and sometimes brutal nature of the techniques done in some of these videos, it is important to note that chiropractors in Australia undertake five years of university study where, during clinical training, there is always an emphasis on making patient well-being and safety the key factor in any decisions made about a patient’s care.