The body is made up of a centre, the spine, which consists of vertebrae and vertebral discs. Throughout the spine there is a network of nerves and these serve to make sure the body functions optimally. For many people, there are problems with this system, and back problems are a common complaint. Any problems with this system can affect daily activities and general health, and can cause symptoms like headaches, back pain and neck pain.
A chiropractor is classically considered a “back doctor”, and they deal with disorders of the muscle and skeletal systems of the body, focusing on the spine and the nervous system. A chiropractor will diagnose, treat and help prevent these disorders so that normal function and good general health are restored. A chiropractor’s work involves non-invasive techniques in treatment, meaning surgery and drugs are not involved and other methods are used, such as spinal manipulations and spinal decompression (spinal adjustments). Ultimately, they use their hands.
Chiropractors have not always been the health professional of choice and they are often considered controversial in their treatment methods and people have tended to be wary of every using a chiropractor. In many pieces of research, chiropractors have proved to be safe and effective in treating disorders of the skeletal and muscular systems without any negative effects. They use traditional methods of diagnosing conditions; the use of x-rays, MRIs and ultrasounds and they also work very closely with other health professionals such as physiotherapists and biokineticists. They also incorporate traditional methods of treatment into their work such as using heat, ice, acupuncture and massage.
They provide you with a very well-round approach to diagnosing and treatment a condition, and they make sure you get the best possible care, whether it is solely through them or with the help of another professional. Their techniques are non-invasive, low cost and easily available to people, making them an important part of the health care system. You can search for a chiropractor on their website: Chiropractors Association of South Africa (CASA), to find one close to you, or ask a doctor or physiotherapist for a referral.
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