Introduction

Chiropractic is neuromusculoskeletal manipulation, especially of the spinal column, and is used for diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating physical problems or diseases caused by or related to the neuromusculoskeletal system. It is generally accepted as one of the treatments of choice in cases of back pain. One of the fundamental principles of chiropracty is subluxation. Chiropractors believe that most of the ailments they treat are related to the misalignment of the spine.

Chiropractic is based on the concept that the human body has an innate self-healing ability and seeks homeostasis, or balance. According to general chiropractic theory, the nervous system plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis-and hence health. But "subluxations" (misalignments of bones within joints) or "fixations " ( abnormalities of motion) interfere with the flow of nervous impulses and diminish the body's ability to stay healthy. Through manipulation of the bones and their associated muscles and joints, particularly the spine, chiropractors work to correct these misalignments, thereby improving the function of the neuromusculoskeletal system and restoring homeostasis.

The word "chiropractic" comes from the Greek words cheiro, meaning "hand," and praktikos, meaning "doing" -so the term means, literally, "doing by hand." 

Today's chiropractors are divided into two major camps. On one side are the straights-traditional chiropractors who believe that subluxations are at the root of disease and that manipulation is the best treatment. On the other side are the so-called mixers, whose approach represents a mix of traditional and progressive techniques. 

Chiropractic is gaining wider acceptance. Recent clinical studies show that chiropractic is effective in treating a variety of problems such as acute lower back pain and headache. Surveys show that more and more people are turning to chiropractic services.