an A-Z of alternative therapies

Chiropractic is a medical practice based on the theory that disease results from a disruption of nerve function. This interference is thought to stem primarily from displaced vertebrae, which chiropractors massage and manipulate manually in order to relieve pressure on the nerves.

Chiropractors use force to move the joints and bones into place, but they do so with swift, practiced movements. All problems may have their root in structural imbalances. The spine is connected to the nervous system, which feeds every part of the body. Where there is pressure or structural problems involving the spine, many different parts of the body may be affected, which can be manifested in illnesses as diverse as asthma, menstrual problems, headaches, sciatica and behavioural problems.

The chiropractor begins by taking a detailed medical history, both of current and past problems, including any past injuries or surgery that may have contributed to your condition and will manoeuvre you into various positions so as to examine the functioning of your spinal column, joints and muscles.

They will observe your posture and gait and may also carry out some diagnostic tests. They will ask about:

• Your lifestyle and work
• Your diet, any recreational drugs including tobacco and caffeine
• Your posture at your desk
• Your exercise patterns
• What kind of bed you have

Treatment usually begins with your second consultation during which the practitioner uses precise and well-controlled techniques known as "adjustments", and sometimes, other, less forceful movements or gentle touch along the spine, skull and pelvis.

Some immediate pain may accompany the adjustment, but this eases quickly. You may get aches and stiffness for a few days as muscles and joints realign, and feel a little tired for a day as your body recovers.

The first session is approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Subsequent sessions last 15 - 20 minutes.

You may need 2 or 3 sessions a week and later, weekly sessions, but this depends on the condition and how quickly you respond to treatment.

Maintenance visits twice a year may be advised to keep problems at bay.

• Safe for most people, but tell the chiropractor if you have osteoporosis or inflammation, sign of infection, tumours, circulatory problems (particularly aneurysms) or a recent fracture.
• Chiropractors may decide not to treat some of the conditions listed, but are skilled in pain relief methods that can ease discomfort in some of them.