Chiropractic manipulation

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Chiropractic manipulation

Chiropractic manipulation (pronunciation: /ˌkaɪrəˈpraktɪk mænɪpjʊˈleɪʃən/) is a form of manual therapy used by chiropractors to treat musculoskeletal pain and disability. It involves the application of controlled force to a joint, moving it beyond its normal range of motion in an attempt to aid in restoring health.

Etymology

The term "chiropractic" comes from the Greek words cheir (hand) and praxis (practice). As for "manipulation," it is derived from the Latin manipulatio, which means "a handling or control". Thus, the term "chiropractic manipulation" essentially means "a practice of handling by hand".

Techniques

There are various techniques of chiropractic manipulation, including:

  • Spinal manipulation: This is the most common technique used in chiropractic care. It involves the application of a quick, high-velocity thrust to a vertebra, which is intended to release pressure on the joints and improve spinal function.
  • Mobilization: This is a gentler method that involves the slow movement and stretching of muscles and joints to improve their range of motion.
  • Activator technique: This technique uses a small, handheld device called an activator to deliver a gentle impulse to the spine or joints.

Related Terms

  • Subluxation: This is a term used in the chiropractic field to describe the altered position of the vertebra and subsequent functional loss, which determines the location for the manipulative treatment.
  • Adjustment: In chiropractic care, an adjustment refers to the specific manipulation chiropractors apply to vertebrae that have abnormal movement patterns or fail to function normally.
  • Chiropractic biophysics: This is a technique that combines traditional chiropractic manipulative therapy with an evidence-based, scientific approach to correcting abnormal spinal structure.
  • Gonstead Technique: This is a method of chiropractic manipulation that is based on the work of Dr. Clarence Gonstead, who developed a specific, hands-on approach to spinal adjustment.

External links

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