Chiropractors treat problems with joints, bones and muscles. Working on all the joints of the body, concentrating particularly on the spine, they use their hands to make often gentle, specific manipulations or adjustments to stretch stiff and painful joints. Chiropractors also use massage, prescribe exercises and give advice on posture and lifestyle to help get to the cause of a problem. Chiropractors are also trained to take and read x-rays.
Chiropractic is a primary health-care profession, so you do not need to be referred by your doctor. A chiropractor is trained to diagnose your problem and will refer you to another health-care practitioner if necessary. Chiropractic does not involve the use of any drugs or surgery.
The effectiveness of chiropractic treatment is supported by research as well as by various UK government, European and international guidelines.. Chiropractic may be available to patients under the umbrella of the NHS, but this will depend on the situation within a specific NHS Primary Care Trust. Otherwise patients see chiropractors in a private capacity either through self referral or as a result of a referral from their GP, other doctor or health professional. BCA chiropractors also treat people who are seeking treatment through private health insurers.
In common with medical practitioners and dentists, all chiropractors are registered by law under the Chiropractors Act and the title ‘Chiropractor’ is protected under this legislation. The profession is statutorily regulated through the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and it is illegal to practise as a chiropractor without being registered with the GCC.
The British Chiropractic Association largest and oldest association for chiroprcators in the UK.
For more information on chiropractic and the BCA click here.
