If you’ve ever wondered, “What exactly does a chiropractor do?”
...you’re not alone.
These are the real questions people think about and sometimes feel awkward asking.
Whether you’re curious for yourself or you’re here on behalf of a family member, this guide is for you.
How Does Chiropractic Work?
Your body is a self-healing, self-regulating miracle, controlled by your nervous system. Every second, millions of messages travel from your brain, down your spinal cord, and out to every cell, tissue, and organ. When the moving bones of your spine shift out of proper alignment (called a subluxation), they can irritate nearby nerves and interfere with this communication.
Gentle chiropractic adjustments restore better movement and alignment, helping your brain and body communicate clearly again. When your nervous system works better, your body has a better chance to heal and perform at its best.
Is Chiropractic Scientific?
Yes. Chiropractic is built on three pillars - science, art, and philosophy.
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Science: Your brain and nervous system control every part of your body. Research confirms that nerve interference changes how the body functions.
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Art: Delivering a precise adjustment is a skill refined through years of training.
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Philosophy: We believe your body was designed to heal when given the right conditions.
What Does Chiropractic Cure?
Here’s the truth: chiropractic doesn’t “cure” anything. Only your body can heal itself.
Our role is to remove nerve interference so your body can do what it’s designed to do. This is why chiropractic can help with so many different issues - we focus on restoring proper function, not chasing symptoms.
Do I Have a Slipped Disc?
The term “slipped disc” is a bit misleading - discs don’t actually slip.
They can bulge, herniate, tear, thin, or dry out, often leading to pain or nerve irritation.
Your chiropractor can assess your spine and recommend the best approach to support disc health.
Do I Have a Pinched Nerve?
A true “pinched” nerve is rare. More often, a misaligned spinal bone irritates, stretches, or compresses a nearby nerve. This irritation can alter the signals travelling to and from your brain, affecting how your body functions.
How Do You Get Subluxations?
Subluxations can come from:
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Physical stress: slips, falls, accidents, repetitive movements, poor posture
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Emotional stress: grief, worry, anger, anxiety
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Chemical stress: poor diet, alcohol, drugs, preservatives, environmental toxins
How Do I Know if I Have One?
You can have subluxations without feeling pain - just like you can have tooth decay without knowing it. The only way to know for sure is to have a thorough Chiropractic examination.
Can Children Have Subluxations?
Yes. Learning to walk, falling off bikes, sports bumps, and playground tumbles can all create spinal issues. These are often dismissed as “growing pains” but can be signs of underlying problems. Gentle Chiropractic care can help children develop with a healthy spine and nervous system.
Can Subluxations Clear Up on Their Own?
Some minor ones can, especially with movement and rest. But many require a specific adjustment to fully resolve - especially if they’ve been there for a while.
What Does an Adjustment Feel Like?
Most patients describe it as relieving, relaxing, and sometimes instantly freeing. Chiropractors are trained to make adjustments gentle and effective.
Can the Bones Move Too Much or Make My Spine Loose?
Unlikely. Adjustments are specific - only the joints that aren’t moving properly are corrected. Unstable joints are supported rather than adjusted.
Are Adjustments Safe?
Yes. Studies show chiropractic care is extremely safe, especially compared to common medications. A thorough examination ensures it’s right for you.
Can I Adjust Myself?
No. While you might hear a “crack” if you twist your back or neck, this isn’t the same as a precise chiropractic adjustment - and can sometimes make things worse.
What’s the Popping Sound?
It’s simply gas and fluid shifting in the joint, like opening a soda can. The sound isn’t a measure of how effective the adjustment is.
Is Everyone Adjusted the Same Way?
Not at all. Your care plan is tailored to your age, condition, lifestyle, and goals.
How Many Visits Will I Need?
It depends on your goals, the severity of your problem, and how long it’s been there. Many patients notice changes in the first week or two.
Can I Have Chiropractic Care With Osteoporosis or After Surgery?
Yes. We adapt our techniques for your condition to make sure your care is safe and effective.
Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy?
Absolutely. Many mums find chiropractic helps them stay comfortable and supports an easier birth. We adjust techniques to suit your stage of pregnancy.
Why Would a Newborn See a Chiropractor?
Even natural births can stress a baby’s spine and nervous system. Gentle adjustments (using no more pressure than you’d use to check a tomato) can support healthy development and ease issues like colic or feeding troubles.
Will I Get Medication?
No. We focus on natural solutions and can recommend safe ways to manage discomfort without drugs.
How Long Will I Need Care?
That’s up to you. Some people stop once their pain is gone. Others choose regular checkups to keep their spine healthy and help prevent problems returning.
What If It Doesn’t Work?
If we can’t help, we’ll refer you to a trusted health professional who can. Your health is the priority.
What if I have more questions?
Ask away! Even better, we host a free workshop for you and your loved ones to come and learn all about Chiropractic and your health. Call us and come along to the next one :)