Chiropractic care is a healthcare discipline focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders of the musculoskeletal system—particularly the spine—and their effects on overall health. At Advanced Spine & Rehab in Mesa, AZ, a complete staff of medical professionals is trained in the latest chiropractic techniques. They provide a compassionate, holistic approach to care, addressing both acute injuries and long-term wellness. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore mobility, reduce pain, and support the body’s natural healing processes.
What Exactly Does a Chiropractor Do?
A chiropractor is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, with an emphasis on manual adjustment and spinal manipulation. Their primary goal is to restore proper alignment to the spine, improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and support the nervous system. Treatment plans may also include rehabilitative exercises, ergonomic advice, and lifestyle counseling. Chiropractors help patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and maintain optimal physical function without surgery or medication.
Is There Any Evidence That Chiropractic Care Works?
Yes, there is substantial clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of chiropractic care, especially for conditions such as acute and chronic low back pain, neck pain, tension headaches, and certain types of migraines. Numerous studies have shown that spinal manipulation can be as effective as or more effective than conventional treatments like medication or physical therapy. In many cases, chiropractic care provides faster relief with fewer side effects. Evidence-based guidelines increasingly recommend it as part of integrative care for musculoskeletal conditions.
What Are the Two Main Types of Chiropractors?
The two primary types of chiropractors are “straight” chiropractors and “mixers.”
Straight chiropractors focus almost exclusively on spinal adjustments and the belief that spinal misalignments (subluxations) interfere with the body’s innate ability to heal itself. They emphasize traditional chiropractic philosophy and minimal use of adjunct therapies.
Mixers, on the other hand, combine spinal adjustments with other treatments such as physical therapy, nutrition, exercise rehabilitation, and modern diagnostic techniques. They take a more integrative, evidence-based approach to care.
What Does a Chiropractor Do on the First Visit?
During the first visit, a chiropractor conducts a comprehensive evaluation to understand the patient’s condition and overall health. This includes:
- Medical history review – past injuries, current symptoms, medications, and lifestyle factors
- Physical examination – posture, spinal alignment, range of motion, orthopedic and neurological tests
- Diagnostic imaging – X-rays or other studies if clinically necessary
- Initial diagnosis and care plan – outlining treatment goals and options
In many cases, a gentle initial adjustment or therapy may be provided if appropriate.
Is a Chiropractor a Doctor?
Yes, chiropractors are licensed healthcare professionals who hold the degree of Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.). They complete rigorous doctoral-level education, which includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, neurology, radiology, and clinical diagnosis, as well as extensive hands-on training. While they are not medical doctors (M.D.s), chiropractors are qualified to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions, order imaging, and collaborate with other healthcare providers. They are recognized as physicians in many healthcare systems for spine and neuromusculoskeletal care.
What Techniques Do Chiropractors Use?
Chiropractors use a variety of specialized techniques tailored to a patient’s condition, goals, and comfort level. Common methods include:
- Spinal Manipulation (Diversified Technique): High-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts to restore joint mobility.
- Activator Method: A handheld instrument delivers precise, gentle impulses to targeted areas.
- Thompson Drop Table Technique: Uses a segmented table that drops slightly during adjustments to reduce force.
- Flexion-Distraction: Gentle, rhythmic spinal stretching used for disc-related issues.
- Manual Soft Tissue Therapy: Includes trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and muscle energy techniques.
Each technique is selected based on clinical findings and patient response.
Common Symptoms That Would Prompt Chiropractic Care?
Here are some of the most frequently reported symptoms that lead individuals to seek chiropractic treatment, each followed by a brief explanation:
Low Back Pain
Persistent or sharp discomfort in the lumbar region can stem from poor posture, disc issues, or spinal misalignments. Chiropractic adjustments help restore alignment, reduce nerve irritation, and improve movement patterns for long-term relief.
Neck Pain and Stiffness
Often caused by poor ergonomics, trauma, or joint dysfunction, neck pain may restrict mobility and lead to headaches. Chiropractors use mobilization, adjustments, and posture correction to relieve pressure and restore function.
Headaches and Migraines
Tension headaches and certain migraines can originate from cervical spine dysfunction or muscle tension. Chiropractic care addresses the underlying spinal and muscular causes, reducing frequency and intensity without medication.
Sciatica
Pain radiating from the lower back down one leg is typically due to sciatic nerve compression. Chiropractic techniques reduce pressure on the nerve, alleviate inflammation, and restore normal nerve flow.
Shoulder, Hip, or Joint Pain
Misalignments or soft tissue imbalances in joints can limit motion and cause chronic pain. Chiropractic care targets both the joint mechanics and surrounding musculature to restore balance and function.
Numbness or Tingling in Arms or Legs
Often a sign of nerve compression in the spine, these sensations can indicate disc issues or vertebral misalignment. Chiropractors identify and relieve pressure points to restore proper nerve communication.
Poor Posture and Fatigue
Postural imbalances can lead to muscular fatigue, spinal stress, and discomfort. Chiropractic evaluation and corrective care help realign the spine, enhance posture, and reduce strain on muscles and joints.
Limited Range of Motion
Difficulty moving the spine or limbs freely may be due to joint restrictions or muscular tightness. Chiropractic adjustments and mobilization techniques restore joint mobility and flexibility.
Medical Causes of Common Chiropractic Symptoms
Herniated or Bulging Disc
A spinal disc protrusion can compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness—especially in the lower back, neck, or legs (sciatica).
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)
Age-related disc wear leads to reduced cushioning between vertebrae, resulting in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the spine or joints.
Spinal Subluxation
Misaligned vertebrae can disrupt normal joint function and irritate nerves, leading to pain, reduced range of motion, and muscle tightness or spasms.
Facet Joint Dysfunction
Inflammation or degeneration of the small joints in the spine may cause localized back or neck pain and stiffness, especially during movement.
Muscle Strain or Ligament Sprain
Overuse or injury can overstretch soft tissues, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced function—common in neck, back, or supporting joints.
Treatments for Common Chiropractic Symptoms
Chiropractic Spinal Adjustments
Manual manipulation realigns vertebrae, reduces nerve irritation, improves mobility, and alleviates pain by restoring normal joint mechanics and spinal function without drugs or surgery.
Physical Therapy
Targeted exercises and stretches strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, correct imbalances, and support spinal structures to reduce pain and prevent future injury or dysfunction.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Techniques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in strained or overused muscles and connective tissues.
Decompression Therapy
Non-surgical spinal decompression gently stretches the spine to relieve pressure on discs and nerves, often used for herniated discs or sciatica relief.
Cold Laser Therapy
Low-level laser light penetrates tissues to reduce inflammation, accelerate cellular repair, and ease pain in acute or chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Summary
Chiropractic care is a proven, non-invasive approach to treating musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint dysfunction. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques—including spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and decompression—to restore alignment, reduce nerve interference, and improve mobility. Common symptoms prompting care include pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion, often caused by disc issues or postural strain. Treatment focuses on long-term relief and function, without relying on medication or surgery.
Meet The Professional Staff
At Advanced Spine & Rehab in the Phoenix East Valley, we invite you to experience compassionate, individualized care in a calm and welcoming environment. Our dedicated team is committed to understanding your unique needs and guiding you with integrity on your path to recovery. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, injury, or simply seeking improved wellness, we’re here to help you find real solutions and lasting relief—so you can get back to living life fully and comfortably.