Chiropractic is an alternative technique that mainly uses spinal manipulation to treat a wide range of medical conditions. It was developed by Daniel David Palmer in the U.S. in 1895. Since then, it has grown to be one of the most popular alternative therapies. In fact, many believe it is so popular that it should no longer be considered "alternative" medicine. In the U.S., chiropractors complete 4 academic years of professional training and are licensed in most states.
Chiropractic is most commonly used for pain, including back pain, neck pain, and headache. It is also used for joint pain, migraine, high blood pressure, scoliosis, colic, anxiety, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses.
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Chiropractors believe that disease is caused by pinched nerves (subluxations) in the spine. Manipulating or adjusting the spine is thought to remove the subluxations and allow the body to heal.
Chiropractic procedures are LIKELY SAFE for most people when done correctly. However, procedures on the neck can cause many side effects including headache, neck pain, and neck stiffness. Some side effects have been severe including stroke and bleeding around the spine; however, these effects appear to be very rare.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Chiropractic procedures are POSSIBLY SAFE in pregnant women for up to 10 weeks. Research on chiropractic treatment in pregnant women did not report serious side effects.Children: Chiropractic procedures are POSSIBLY SAFE in children in the short term. Most research in children did not report serious side effects. However, some cases of bleeding in the brain have been reported in children. It is important to ensure that the chiropractor is qualified to treat children.
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
Warfarin (Coumadin) thins the blood and can cause excessive bleeding. There is some concern that people taking warfarin might be more likely to experience bleeding around the spine after receiving chiropractic neck treatments. If you are taking warfarin, avoid getting chiropractic neck treatments.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
The appropriate or safe use of chiropractic depends on several factors such as the condition being treated or the person administering the treatment. Be sure to seek and follow relevant directions from your physician or other healthcare professional before using this treatment.
Chiro Therapy, Chirotherapy, Chiropractic Physician, Chiropraticien, Chiropractie, Chiropractors, Chiropratique, Chiropraxie, Manipulation Rachidienne, Manipulation Vertébrale, Manipulative Therapy, Physical Medicine, Quiropráctica, SMT, Spinal Manipulative Therapy, Subluxation.
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