What exactly is chiropractic?
The word “chiropractic” comes from ancient Greek and means “done by hand.” Chiropractors use their hands to administer specific adjustments to the joints of the body to remove subluxations and to restore proper motion to the joints. This type of therapy has been used in the healing arts for many centuries and is at the heart of modern chiropractic care.
How much education does my chiropractor have? Chiropractors have done a minimum of 7 years of post secondary education. Chiropractic students undergo a rigorous course of study similar to that of other regulated health care professionals. Entrance requirements are also similar. Students are required to complete a minimum of three years of university before they are eligible for admission to an accredited chiropractic program which is then another 4-5 years. In addition to the academic program, chiropractic education requires hands-on clinical experience under the direct supervision of highly-qualified faculty. This experience includes clinical assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and referral protocols.
A graduate must then pass comprehensive national examinations administered by the Canadian Chiropractic Examining Board (CCEB) before qualifying to become licensed by the regulatory authority in their province of practice.
What is a subluxation? A subluxation is an improperly moving or misaligned spinal segment (spinal joint) that can cause irritation to the nervous system. If there is irritation to the nervous system, the body is unable to function at its optimal level sometimes leaving you in pain, stressed or extra tired. Removing spinal subluxations with an adjustment restores balance to the spine, removes any unnecessary stress on the nervous system and ultimately allows the body to, once again, function at an optimal level.
What causes spinal subluxations? Three main stressors to the body cause spinal subluxations:
1 -Physical stress – ie poor posture, trauma, prolonged positions (sitting, standing, driving etc)
2-Chemical stress – ie poor nutrition, medications, toxins from personal care products, pollution from the environment, drugs, alcohol etc
3 -Emotional stress – work/school stress, major life changes, depression, anxiety etc.
What is an adjustment? Chiropractors are specialists in manual adjustments of the vertebrae of the spine and other joints of the body. When an adjustment is administered it helps to restore normal functioning to the joints and supporting muscles and ligaments.
Is every chiropractor the same? Every chiropractor in Canada has undergone the same education and regulatory standards, but NO not all chiropractors are the same. Every chiropractor will have a little bit different treatment style and often will have a certain practice focus i.e. sports chiropractors vs. family wellness chiropractors. In other words, we are all a little different. If you have specific questions or concerns regarding adjusting techniques and treatment styles please contact us for further information, we would be more than happy to answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have.