The Bristol Chiropractic Clinic’s new website contains a wealth of information about the various conditions we help with and types of treatment available. For many people, our treatments can help relieve them of terrible pain that greatly restricts their quality of life.

But what exactly are chiropractors and what do we do?

A Natural Process

Under the treatment of a chiropractor, you will never be administered drugs nor required to go through surgery, although if your chiropractor assesses you and believes this type of care to be more appropriate you will be referred to your GP immediately.

The chiropractor will seek to solve your problem by using manipulation or mobilisation of the spine, which in essence, this is a completely natural process that has been utilised by various health professionals since Egyptian times.

At Bristol Chiropractic Clinic you will be given home rehabilitation exercises, lifestyle and basic nutritional advice alongside your treatment. You may even be offered western medical acupuncture.

back pain BristolHow Does It Work?

There are two main approaches to chiropractic treatment: spinal manipulation and spinal mobilisation.

Spinal Manipulation

This involves positioning the body in a specific way and applying force to irritated joints in order to correct them. You will often hear a popping or cracking sound coming from the joint that is purely cavitation or popping of gas bubbles as the pressure changes within the joint.

Spinal Mobilisation

Spinal mobilisation is a gentler approach. We use a number of techniques, depending on the condition and particular circumstances of the patient. It’s distinguished from spinal manipulation as no application of force or twisting of the body is required.

Is It Safe?

Chiropractic is an area that hasn’t been fully explored yet and research is still ongoing. As such, questions persist about how safe and effective it is.

There is no evidence that when applied by a qualified and trained health professional it can cause any damage. There have been cases of vertebral artery dissection after manipulation of the neck reported in the literature and at Bristol Chiropractic Clinic we only apply cervical manipulation where deemed necessary and after a full history and examination. Research has shown however, that you are just as likely to suffer from vertebral artery dissection after visiting your GP with neck pain and headaches.

Often people experience a temporarily worsening of their symptoms and some post treatment soreness, especially early on in the treatment plan and these are very normal responses.

Chiropractic treatment has repeatedly been proven successful and many people swear by it. As long as you visit a reputable chiropractor who’s registered with the General Chiropractic Council, you’re in safe hands.

Chiropractors are able to treat a whole range of conditions using a variety of natural methods. For many patients, the positive effects of such treatments have been life changing.

Have you thought about seeing a chiropractor? Have a look at the Bristol Chiropractic Clinic’s new website for more information.