Chiropractors specialise in using manual methods to diagnose, treat and prevent mechanical disorders of the spine, joints and muscles. 

The treatments consist of manipulation (known as adjustments) which as well as 're-aligning' the spine and other skeletal structures, is also concerned with the effects any have on the nervous system, and releasing the body's natural healing ability.

The majority of a chiropractors work is related to back and neck problems, and treatment is usually more effective for short-term (acute) problems than for longer-term (chronic) conditions.

Adjustments may cause some temporary discomfort, but not pain. Registered chiropractors, such as members of the British Chiropractors Association and the General Chiropractic Council, receive a minimum of four years training.

Chiropractors believe that any damage or strain on the spine will have far-reaching effects on the nervous system - not just on joints and muscles, but also on internal organs and the hormonal, circulatory and other body systems.

How is it performed

The initial appointment usually takes 30-60 minutes; follow-up appointments are about half as long. The chiropractor should take a complete case history, including your past medical history and any lifestyle factors that might be affecting your problem.

The examination will probably include testing your posture and the way you sit and move. The practitioner will use touch and observation to assess the way your spine, joints and muscles work as you are moved through a range of positions.Your joint reflexes, heart rate and blood pressure may also be checked, and it is quite likely that X-rays will be taken.

Deep massage-like techniques are intended to relax tight muscles in order to make joint manipulation easier. Repeated rhythmical movements (rocking or stretching) are performed to persuade joints to be less stiff.

'High-velocity' direct thrusts are sharp but controlled movements that suddenly stretch problem joints. This sometimes causes a painless popping sensation.It is not uncommon to feel mild discomfort and stiffness the day after treatment.

The number of treatments will depend on the problem and the practitioner's approach. For an acute low-back pain, for instance, two or three 15-30-minute sessions in the first week to ten days would be average. Most chiropractors will also recommend particular exercises to do at home.