What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a regulated primary healthcare profession focused on the assessment, diagnosis, management and prevention of musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those affecting the spine and pelvis.

According to the World Health Organization, chiropractic care is concerned with disorders of the musculoskeletal system and their effects on general health, with an emphasis on manual treatment techniques including spinal manipulation and joint mobilisation.

In New Zealand, chiropractors are registered health professionals under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act and practise within a defined scope regulated by the Chiropractic Board. The New Zealand Chiropractors' Association outlines that chiropractors are trained to assess, diagnose and manage mechanical disorders of joints, muscles and nerves.

Chiropractic adjustment / manipulation to the middle back

What Areas Do Chiropractors Assess and Treat?

While spinal care is a central focus, chiropractic assessment is not limited to the back and neck. Chiropractors are trained to evaluate and manage a wide range of musculoskeletal regions, including:

• Spine (neck, mid-back and lower back)

• Pelvis and sacroiliac joints

• Hip

• Knee

• Ankle and foot

• Shoulder

• Elbow

• Wrist and hand

Treatment approaches may include:

• Spinal and extremity joint adjustments (manipulation)

• Joint mobilisation

• Soft tissue techniques

• Rehabilitation exercises

• Postural advice

• Ergonomic guidance

• Lifestyle and movement education

Care is tailored to the individual following a thorough clinical history and physical examination. Where clinically indicated, referral for imaging or to other healthcare providers may be recommended.

How Chiropractic May Help

Chiropractic care is commonly sought for musculoskeletal concerns such as:

• Lower back pain

• Neck pain

• Headaches associated with neck dysfunction

• Joint stiffness

• Sports-related strains

• Postural discomfort

Evidence suggests that spinal manipulation and manual therapy may be beneficial for some people with certain types of acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain (WHO Guidelines; NZ Ministry of Health musculoskeletal frameworks).

It is important to note that outcomes vary between individuals. Chiropractic care does not claim to cure systemic disease and is focused on mechanical and neuromusculoskeletal function.

What to Expect at a Chiropractic Appointment

At your first visit, your chiropractor will:

1. Take a detailed health history

2. Conduct a physical examination

3. Assess joint movement, muscle function and neurological indicators

4. Discuss findings and management options

Your care plan will be discussed with you, including expected timeframes, likely benefits, and any potential risks. Informed consent is obtained prior to treatment.

References

The information provided on this website is based on guidance from recognised professional and regulatory bodies.

World Health Organization. (2005).WHO guidelines on basic training and safety in chiropractic. Geneva: WHO Press. Available at: https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/43352

This document outlines education standards, scope of practice and safety considerations in chiropractic care.

New Zealand Chiropractors' Association. (n.d.).Scope of practice and professional standards. Available at: https://www.chiropractic.org.nz

Provides information regarding chiropractic scope and professional expectations within New Zealand.

Chiropractic Board. (n.d.).Scope of practice. Available at: https://www.chiropracticboard.org.nz

The Chiropractic Board regulates chiropractors in New Zealand under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 and defines the authorised scope of practice.

Ministry of Health. (2016).New Zealand Health Strategy: Future direction. Wellington: Ministry of Health. Available at: https://www.health.govt.nz

Provides national health context, including the impact of musculoskeletal conditions on population health.

Disclaimer

The information on this website is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individual health assessment or professional medical advice. Outcomes from chiropractic care may vary between individuals. If you have specific health concerns, please consult a registered health professional.