Equilibrium Chiropratic

The most common therapeutic procedure performed by doctors of chiropractic is known as “spinal manipulation,” also called “chiropractic adjustment.”   The purpose of manipulation is to restore joint mobility by manually applying a controlled force into joints that have become hypomobile – or restricted in their movement – as a result of a tissue injury. Tissue injury can be caused by a single traumatic event, such as improper lifting of a heavy object, or through repetitive stresses, such as sitting in an awkward position with poor spinal posture for an extended period of time. In either case, injured tissues undergo physical and chemical changes that can cause inflammation, pain, and diminished function for the sufferer. Manipulation, or adjustment of the affected joint and tissues, restores mobility, thereby alleviating pain and muscle tightness, and allowing tissues to heal.

Meridian therapy is a common name given to a handful of treatment modalities that are based on many of the original teachings of Chinese medicine — Yin / Yang theory, Five Element theory, and the Meridian system. Stimulating points with needles and manual techniques are employed, such as pressing, massaging, and tapping. Similar conditions are treated using these modalities as with acupuncture, though diagnostic and treatment methods will vary greatly from system to system.

Exercises that will correct postural imbalances are taught in conjunction with manipulative therapy.  A patient’s individual needs are evaluated and specific exercises are assigned to be performed in the office and at home.  These exercises are to be performed at specific intervals and should remain in a relatively pain free range.  There are several subclassifications associated with various forms of pain.  Once the subclassification is determined the patient becomes educated on which motions will improve the condition, and those which will make the condition worse.

Many painful conditions are associated with or complicated by poor diet.  If this is a contributing factor to a patient’s condition then a nutritional evaluation may be in order.  Generally this begins with a simple food diary which the patient is to complete throughout the day documenting everything that is consumed for a week.  This process is helpful to both the patient and the doctor.  Writing down every food item eaten in a day usually makes patients more conscientious of the quality of the food.  Helpful advice on how to improve their diet is then given based on the food diary and laboratory examination if needed.

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