Chiropractors don't use prescription drugs as a form of treatment.
A chiropractor treats her patients under the premise that misalignment of the body's nerves or bones in the spine can result in illness and medical problems that affect other areas of the body. Chiropractors treat patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly, using a holistic approach. This means they avoid using prescriptions and do not perform surgery. To become a chiropractor, you must complete two years of study at a junior or community college before entering a 10-semester chiropractic program at a chiropractic college. Many chiropractic offices are now leaning toward chiropractors having a bachelor's degree in addition to chiropractic training, and some colleges now offer postdoctoral programs in chiropractic as well. All states require chiropractors to obtain their license to practice through a four-part examination process.
Diagnose
X-rays help a chiropractor make a diagnosis.
In the same manner as other healthcare providers, a chiropractor follows standard procedures to obtain information necessary for the diagnosis of his patient. In addition to documenting the patient's medical history, the chiropractor will do an orthopedic, neurological and physical examination on the patient. The chiropractor may refer the patient to have laboratory tests or get X-rays or MRIs if he does not have equipment on-site to do so himself. Diagnostic images, such as CAT scans, X-rays and MRIs, help the chiropractor to analyze what might be contributing to the medical issue and whether involves the patient's bones or soft tissues, such as cartilage or nerves.
Treat
Once a diagnosis is made, the chiropractor can create a treatment plan for the patient and begin treatment to address the issue or illness. Many forms of treatment are utilized, depending upon the patient's needs. The chiropractor may perform different therapies, including the use of hot packs, light therapy, massage and low-level electrical currents. They also do adjustments and manipulations on the affected area. If a patient needs support to a particular area of the body, the chiropractor uses braces, straps or inserts for the shoes. Chiropractors also talk to patients about treating their conditions through exercise, healthy diet, managing stress and other lifestyle changes.
Documentation
Before and during treatment, a chiropractor documents her diagnosis and observations as well as documenting treatments provided and any notable progress in the patient's condition. As treatment progresses, changes in the patient's condition are added to the patient's chart, as are changes in treatment. If the chiropractor works in a small-office setting, she may have to do some of her own administrative work, such as ordering supplies and equipment from vendors, hiring employees and developing a base of clients or patients.
Tags: treatment chiropractor, help chiropractor, patient condition, patient needs, X-rays MRIs