Provide Appropriate Support to Diagnose your Musculoskeletal Condition

The chiropractor begins by questioning their patient about their past medical history and any possible conditions. They are also interested in factors in their lifestyle and work that could promote the emergence of musculoskeletal issues. They then conduct a physical examination and may request additional tests if necessary, such as X-rays. If the symptoms suggest a medical diagnosis or treatment, if the symptoms persist or worsen, or if the issues presented are beyond their scope of expertise, the chiropractor will refer the patient to a doctor. The chiropractor’s scope of expertise is defined by regulation 2011-32 of January 7, 2011.

Treat your musculoskeletal issues

Based on this information, the chiropractor establishes a treatment plan. They then manually intervene and perform mobilization or spinal manipulation procedures (known as chiropractic adjustments). They may also use specialized equipment.

Prevent the reoccurrence of symptoms

The chiropractor may also provide advice on posture, diet, or lifestyle to strengthen the effectiveness of the treatment they provide.

Techniques of care adapted to everyone

Chiropractic is a non-pharmaceutical and conservative therapeutic method, meaning it does not use surgery or injections. It is mainly based on spinal manipulation and joint mobilization.

Spinal Manipulation

The so-called HVLA manipulation is a „forced“ maneuver, brief and dry, maintained at the level of a joint to restore its mobility. It aims to improve joint function and/or reduce pain. Spinal manipulations are recommended by most national and international health agencies. They mainly concern the management of acute or chronic lower back pain.

Joint Mobilization

Mobilization involves a slow, large range of motion applied by the chiropractor on a joint within its usual range. It can be performed in an oscillating manner: the joint is moved repetitively in a sliding or variable magnitude rotation. It can also consist of holding the joint at its usual maximum range. The mobilization aims to achieve a gain in joint range of motion and/or stretch soft tissues (muscles and tendons, in particular).

Exercises

For preventive or curative purposes, therapeutic exercises proposed by chiropractors to their patients are an essential part of the therapeutic arsenal. They are effective in managing the most common spinal pain and produce analgesic effects and prevent the recurrence of pain.

Advice on posture and lifestyle

Consistent with their holistic approach to individual health, chiropractors attach particular importance to knowledge and consideration of psychosocial and environmental factors, such as stress or occupation, for example. Some of these factors are likely to promote the development of musculoskeletal issues. After listening carefully to their patients, and if necessary, the chiropractor can give advice on lifestyle hygiene, as well as posture advice adapted to the patient’s environment. Following these pieces of advice generally increases the benefits of treatment and prevents the recurrence of symptoms.