Chiropractor Definition

A chiropractor usually focuses on diagnosing and treating back and neck pain and is considered by many to be a type of primary care physician as he or she is often the first doctor a patient will visit when experiencing back pain.

A chiropractor, also known as a doctor of chiropractic or a chiropractic physician, diagnoses and treats patients whose health problems are associated with the body's muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, especially the spine.

When the source of pain involves musculoskeletal structures, chiropractors may manually manipulate or adjust the spinal column.

Many chiropractors also use water, light, massage, ultrasound, electric, and heat therapy and may apply supports such as straps, taping and braces to treat back pain.

Unlike medical doctors, chiropractic doctors do not prescribe medications. Chiropractors go through a four year chiropractic school to receive a Doctor of Chiropractic.

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