Chiropractic is a specific type of alternative medicine that treats disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous system, as well as the effects of these disorders in the body. Often, it is used in conjunction with other types of alternative medicine, the most common being acupuncture, massage, aromatherapy, meditation and yoga.
That doesn’t mean that chiropractors (chiropractic physicians) don’t use modern medicine. Sometimes they use diagnostic methods, such as x-rays, as well as medications such as antibiotics and dietary supplements.
Chiropractors typically use spinal manipulation, which involves pushing a joint beyond its typical range of movement, but with the necessary precautions so as not to cause damage. There are other types of manipulation that chiropractors use, depending on the affected part of the body and the desired result.
Chiropractic is commonly used to treat pain, especially in the back, neck, joints and muscles. It is also used to recover the loss of sensation in the muscles as well as some types of headaches.