A licensed health care profession that focuses largely on the musculoskeletal system and its function. Chiropractic care commonly includes hands-on techniques such as spinal manipulation or adjustment and may also incorporate exercise, movement and lifestyle guidance.
How Chiropractic Care Is Commonly Used
Chiropractors often work with conditions involving the muscles, joints and spine. Care may include stretching, sustained pressure, joint manipulation or other manual techniques designed to improve joint movement and function.
Spinal manipulation is commonly associated with chiropractic care, although it is also used by some other licensed health professionals.
Safety & Considerations
Chiropractic treatment should be individualized according to a person’s health history and needs.
Temporary effects following spinal manipulation can include soreness, stiffness, discomfort or headache. Serious complications are considered rare, but certain health conditions may affect whether a particular technique is appropriate. Sharing a complete health history with the practitioner is important before treatment begins.
Related Terms
Adjustment — A term commonly used in chiropractic for a manual technique applied to a joint.
Spinal Manipulation — A technique in which a practitioner applies a controlled thrust to a spinal joint.
Musculoskeletal — Relating to the muscles, bones, joints and associated tissues.
Subluxation — A term that can have different meanings in conventional medicine and chiropractic.
What the Research Says
Chiropractic care has been studied most extensively in relation to musculoskeletal conditions, particularly back and neck pain.
Research suggests that spinal manipulation may provide small or modest improvements in pain and function for some people with low-back pain, although the strength and quality of evidence varies by condition and study. It is one of several non-drug approaches that may be considered for some types of back pain.
Why Context Matters
Chiropractic encompasses a range of techniques and approaches, and individual chiropractors may differ in how they assess patients and provide care.
Terms used within chiropractic may also have meanings that differ from their use in conventional medicine. Subluxation is one important example, which is why it has its own entry in this glossary.
This glossary is intended to help readers understand terminology they may encounter in holistic and wellness conversations. It is educational and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice.
Learn More
For a detailed, research-based overview of chiropractic care, visit the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH):
Chiropractic: In Depth
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health — Chiropractic: In Depth
A Note on Wellness Language
Wellness terms can change over time and may be used differently across scientific, traditional and commercial settings. Our goal is to explain them clearly, distinguish historical meaning from modern marketing, and give enough context for you to make sense of the language you encounter.
Explore Related Terms
Continue through the Herbal & Wellness Glossary to explore related terms such as Subluxation, along with other concepts connected with musculoskeletal health, manual care and wellness.
A Note on Educational Information
The information in this glossary is provided for educational purposes only. It is intended to explain terminology and provide context, not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease, or replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Return to the Herbal & Wellness Glossary
Return to the Herbal & Wellness Glossary to explore more terms, preparation methods and wellness concepts used throughout the site.
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