Chiropractic tools are used to enhance this natural form of health care.
Chiropractic is a form of health care that focuses on the nerves of the human body as well as the musculoskeletal system. According to the American Chiropractic Association, or ACA, chiropractic health care is used to treat pain in the back, neck, arms, legs and head. The primary form of treatment is known as "chiropractic adjustment," or healing done by manipulating the spine. Though chiropractors mainly use their hands in their practice, some tools can be used.
Screening Tools
Before working on a patient, chiropractors screen the spine. Chiropractors may first screen the spine by collecting health history and performing an X-ray, as stated by Spine-Health. The New Jersey Chiropractic Council of Neurology (NJCCN) indicates that further screening can be done using video nystagmography, or VNG, which takes infrared recordings of eye movements that are linked to the brain. The NJCCN also suggests that chiropractors may use a computerized system called CAPS posturography to monitor a patient's posture.
Adjustment Tools
Chiropractic adjustments, mainly performed by using hands, can also incorporate tools. One tool used during adjustments is known as the "activator" or chiropractic adjustment tool, C.A.T. As described by Mondo Medical Supplies, Inc., this tool can be used when proper spinal manipulation is not possible using the hands. Another tool, the ArthroStim, uses pulsation to provide up to 40 pounds of force and reach deeper tissues, as stated by Creighton University Medical Center.
Massage Tools
Chiropractors may incorporate massage into treatments. Chiropractic massage tools can include the Theracane Trigger Point tool that helps release trigger points, as described by the Chiropractic Massage Superstore. Other chiropractic massage tools include massage balls, the Backnobber, Jacknobber, and Index Knobber to help create deeper muscle relaxation around the spine.
Chiropractic Risks
Chiropractic care can create some side effects that include headache, continued pain or, in extreme cases, herniated disks. Though chiropractic health care is fairly safe, the Mayo Clinic advises patients to only use licensed professionals and to avoid this form of health care when diagnosed with osteoporosis or prior nerve damage.
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