What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a natural, drug-free health profession focused on restoring and maintaining the body’s optimal function. Chiropractors evaluate the whole person—structural, neurological, muscular, nutritional, and lifestyle factors—to identify and address the root causes of pain or dysfunction.

At the core of chiropractic care is the spinal adjustment, a hands-on procedure that improves joint mobility, reduces pain, and supports the body’s natural healing processes. Chiropractors also use therapeutic modalities, soft-tissue techniques, and provide guidance on exercise, nutrition, posture, and healthy living.

What is a DC?

A Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) is a primary-contact physician trained to diagnose and manage conditions related to the spine, nerves, muscles, and joints. DCs are experts in spinal and extremity adjustments and provide conservative, non-surgical care for issues such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and related disorders. Chiropractors also educate patients on lifestyle, ergonomics, and preventive health to support long-term wellness.

History and Benefits

Chiropractic has been used for thousands of years, with early documentation of manual healing practices dating back to ancient China. Modern chiropractic began in the late 1800s when D.D. Palmer performed the first spinal adjustment and observed functional improvement—laying the foundation for today’s evidence-based profession.

Chiropractic care is now widely recognized for helping millions of Americans manage back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other musculoskeletal conditions. Research and federal guidelines support chiropractic manipulation as a safe, effective, and drug-free first-line treatment for acute low back pain. Patients value chiropractic for its focus on natural healing, functional improvement, and personalized, hands-on care.