One of the largest primary care professions in Ontario, chiropractic is an evidence-informed, non-invasive, hands on health care discipline that focuses on the neuromusculoskeletal system.

Chiropractors practice primarily using their hands, providing diagnosis, treatment and preventive care for disorders related to the body including the spine, pelvis, muscles, nervous system and joints.

After taking a history, performing an examination and establishing a diagnosis, the chiropractor can develop and carry out a comprehensive treatment/management plan, recommend therapeutic exercise and other non-invasive therapies, and provide nutritional, dietary and lifestyle counselling. The treatment plan for the patient will be tailored specifically to the patient’s condition which may include soft tissue therapy, modalities, mobilizations, joint manipulations and active exercises.

One of the most common therapies a chiropractor uses is spinal manipulative therapy (SMT). A manipulation or an adjustment is a precise and controlled thrust applied either by hand or with an instrument to restore proper movement and improve function to a joint.

Chiropractors are primary care practitioners who often work in multi-disciplinary environments. When advisable, a chiropractor will refer and coordinate care with other health care professionals. Where other conditions exist, chiropractic care may complement or support medical or other treatment by relieving the musculoskeletal aspects associated with the condition.

Chiropractic care may also be used to provide symptomatic relief for patients with chronic conditions.

There are many reasons to seek chiropractic care:

• Back pain

• Neck pain

• Headache

• Whiplash

• Strains and sprains

• Repetitive strain injury (RSI)

• Work and sports injuries

• Arthritis

• Limited range of motion in the back, shoulder, neck or limbs