Did you know that the first chiropractor, Daniel David Palmer, established the profession in 1895? Since then, chiropractors have helped many people and animals find relief from their ailments.
A chiropractor can adjust almost any area of the body. They can adjust areas like the spine, neck, shoulders, hip and knee joints, and jaw. But just any place on the body will do.
However, many people do not know what a chiropractor is or what they do. Many are also wondering, “How do chiropractors know where to adjust?”
Read on to learn more.
Applying the Theory of Biomechanics
Chiropractors understand the theory of biomechanics. They use it to their advantage when performing adjustments. This theory studies the structure and motion of the body.
It considers how the body parts are interconnected and interact with one another. The chiropractor will first study the patient’s gait and posture to better understand how the body’s bones and joints work together and later make changes with the use of their hands.
Analyzing the Location and Severity of Subluxations
Practicians use a combination of clinical experience and examination methods. They use orthopedic and neurological testing to assess which parts of the body need to be adjusted. This helps the clinician determine which joints are affected by subluxations.
Some use motion palpation, which is a technique that evaluates how well a joint can move. From there, the clinician can generate a treatment plan that may involve adjustment types such as:
- manual manipulation
- Gonestead adjustment
- decompression
Ultimately, the focus of chiropractic care is to realign the body and help restore normal joint movement to reduce pain and improve overall functioning.
Utilizing X-Rays, MRIs, and Ultrasound Imaging
Chiropractors use medical technology when they are looking for areas where a patient may need adjusting, such as:
- X-rays
- MRI
- ultrasounds
This equipment can provide a three-dimensional view of the patient. It helps the doctor determine where adjustment or manipulation may be needed. Ultrasound can be used to show any disturbances due to misalignment.
All of these imaging techniques can help a doctor identify areas of misalignment and other conditions that a patient may benefit from treatment.
Evaluating Patient Symptoms and Range of Motion
Chiropractors are adept at locating misalignments using a combination of patient symptoms and range of motion tests.
A chiropractor will ask the patient to rate their symptoms on a scale from 1-10. They will also ask to provide full descriptions of what they’re feeling or experiencing, such as:
- neck pain
- back pain
- joint pain
- muscle stiffness
Next, they will assess the patient’s range of motion to identify any restrictions. This combination of evaluations provides the chiropractor with enough information on where to make adjustments. If you feel you are experiencing these symptoms, check out a local chiropractor located here.
How Do Chiropractors Know Where to Adjust
Understanding the body’s anatomy is the main resource on how do chiropractors know where to adjust. The ability to properly diagnose certain ailments and identify exactly where to adjust becomes a pillar of any chiropractor’s practice. To receive the proper chiropractic treatment, it is important to focus on finding a knowledgeable doctor in the field.
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