What is Chiropractic?

The word "chiropractic" combines the Greek word cheir (hand) and praxis (action) and means "done by hand." Chiropractic is an alternative medical system and takes a different approach from conventional medicine in diagnosing, classifying, and treating medical problems.

The body has a natural healing ability that is controlled by the nervous system. Subluxations, or misalignments of the spine interrupt or interfere with "nerve flow." If an organ does not receive its normal supply of impulses from the nerves, it can become diseased. A Chiropractor's aim is to "adjust" the vertebrae, the bones of the spinal column, with the goal of correcting these subluxations, and restoring proper nerve flow. With a proper adjustment it not only leaves the patient feeling relaxed, but also stimulate the organs that correlate to the spinal nerves.

When Dr. Butler treats you, she may perform one or more adjustments. An adjustment (also called a manipulation treatment) is a manual therapy, or therapy delivered by the hands. Given mainly to the spine, chiropractic adjustments involve applying a controlled, sudden force to a joint. They are done to increase the range and quality of motion in the area being treated.