The Role Of A Chiropractor: Education, Treatment & Adjustments

Chiropractic care is a widely recognised form of allied health that focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal complaints, utilising a combined approach of different treatment modalities. Chiropractors today utilise evidence-based treatments, including spinal manipulation, therapeutic exercises, soft tissue therapy, and patient education, to provide safe and effective care. They emphasise a holistic and biopsychosocial approach to healthcare, aiming to restore proper musculoskeletal function and alleviate pain without the use of medications or surgery.

The Role Of A Chiropractor

Chiropractors are highly trained, AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) certified practitioners, requiring 5+ years of study including a Master’s or Doctorate degree. Chiropractors specialise in treating conditions related to the spine and musculoskeletal system. Their primary responsibilities include:

• Conducting thorough patient assessments and physical examinations
• Diagnosing conditions affecting the spine and other peripheral joints
• Performing joint manipulations (adjustments)
• Educating patients on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle modifications
• Providing rehabilitative exercises and therapeutic interventions
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals when necessary
• Referring for imaging where indicated

Key Principles of Modern Chiropractic Theory

• Pain and Dysfunction Are Multifactorial

• • Low back pain, neck pain, and headaches are often due to muscle imbalances, joint dysfunction, nerve irritation, and psychosocial factors, rather than simple spinal misalignment.
  • Chiropractic care integrates biomechanics, neurophysiology, and behavioural health to improve outcomes.

• Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT) Works Through Neuromechanical Mechanisms

• • Adjustments do not “reposition” the spine, but rather influence the nervous system and joint mechanics.

• • SMT affects mechanoreceptors, nociceptors, and muscle reflex pathways, reducing pain and improving mobility.

• Chiropractic Care Is Part of a Multidisciplinary Approach

• • Evidence supports chiropractic care as a first-line treatment for acute and chronic low back pain, neck pain, and headaches, alongside physiotherapy and exercise.
  • Chiropractors often work with medical doctors, physical therapists, and pain specialists for comprehensive care.

• Exercise and Patient Education Are Essential

• • Modern chiropractors emphasise rehabilitative exercises, strength training, and posture correction rather than relying solely on manual adjustments.
  • Patient education on ergonomics, movement patterns, and pain psychology is key to long-term success.

• Evidence-Based Guidelines Support Chiropractic for Certain Conditions

• • Organisations like the American College of Physicians (ACP), World Health Organisation (WHO), and Cochrane Reviews recommend spinal manipulation for low back pain, neck pain, and headaches as part of a broader pain management strategy.
  • SMT is now considered as effective as conventional treatments like NSAIDs or physiotherapy, with fewer risks.

Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT): Indications and Effects

Indications for Adjustments

SMT and peripheral joint adjustments are utilised by chiropractors and physiotherapists trained in joint manipulation as one modality of care in a comprehensive treatment approach. Some indications include:

• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Headaches and migraines
• Sciatica (pain radiating down the leg)
• Joint pain (shoulders, knees, hips, etc.)
• Postural imbalances
• Sports injuries

Effects of Chiropractic Adjustments

Contrary to colloquial belief, adjustments are not bones ‘cracking’, rather it is a release of gas particles within the joint capsule that elicits the ‘crack’ sound often heard. Chiropractic adjustments, also known as spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), have several neuromusculoskeletal effects that contribute to pain relief, improved mobility, and overall well-being. Modern research suggests that these effects are primarily neurological, mechanical, and physiological rather than structural realignments.

1. Pain Relief

• Adjustments help modulate pain perception by influencing the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS).
• Studies show that SMT can reduce pain sensitivity and increase pain tolerance by affecting nociceptors and mechanoreceptors in the spine.

2. Improved Joint Mobility & Function

• Chiropractic adjustments restore normal joint movement (arthrokinematics), reducing joint stiffness and dysfunction.
• This effect is particularly beneficial for conditions like facet joint syndrome, muscle spasms, and mild spinal restrictions.

3. Muscle Relaxation & Reduced Tension

• Adjustments stimulate the Golgi tendon organs and muscle spindles, leading to a neuromuscular relaxation effect.
• This can help reduce tightness, spasms, and muscle guarding, improving flexibility and range of motion.

4. Improved Nervous System Function

• SMT can influence the autonomic nervous system (ANS), particularly the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.
• Some studies suggest that adjustments may help regulate heart rate variability, stress responses, and blood pressure in certain individuals.

5. Reduced Inflammation

• Spinal manipulation may modulate inflammatory markers (e.g., cytokines, TNF-α, IL-6), leading to anti-inflammatory effects in musculoskeletal tissues.
• This is particularly useful for conditions like chronic low back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis.

6. Enhanced Proprioception & Balance

• Chiropractic adjustments can improve proprioception (body awareness) by optimising sensory input from the spine to the brain.
• This is beneficial for athletes, elderly individuals at risk of falls, and those recovering from injuries.

7. Possible Effects on Headaches & Migraines

• SMT has been found effective in reducing tension headaches and cervicogenic headaches by relieving muscle tension and improving cervical spine function.
• Some evidence suggests it may also help with migraine frequency and severity by modulating trigeminal nerve pathways.

Secure The Treatment You Need With Spinal & Sports Care!

Chiropractors play a vital role in musculoskeletal health, offering non-invasive, drug-free treatments to alleviate pain and improve function. Their expertise in spinal adjustments and holistic care helps patients achieve better mobility, reduced pain, and improved quality of life. Whether for chronic pain management or preventive care, chiropractic treatment remains a valuable healthcare option for many individuals seeking natural and effective relief.

Consult a chiropractor at Spinal & Sports Care today. Reach out to our team for a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.