I Go to an Osteopath – Isn’t He the Same as a Chiropractor?

Chiropractic is not manipulation as an osteopath or physical therapist might do.  These approaches utilize a technique called long-lever manipulation.  Their purpose is to rattle and loosen as many joints as possible with the expectation that freer movement will equal less pain and stiffness.  To manipulate the spine they place a person on their side, grab a shoulder and knee, and wrench them in opposite directions as far and as hard as they can.

(As a side note:  Osteopathy, as introduced by Dr. A. T. Still, had a much more sound philosophical basis, and it is my understanding that a true osteopathic treatment took one hour to complete, and they got marvelous results.  I am not aware of that level of osteopathy being taught or practiced anywhere today.)

Chiropractic philosophy teaches that when vertebrae are not aligned correctly, a number of different mechanisms occur which have been grouped together under the heading of ‘nerve irritation/interference’.  Using the technique called short-lever manipulation, chiropractors attempt to move the vertebrae back to their correct positions, and accomplish this with the minimum force necessary, and disturbing the surrounding vertebrae as little as possible.  We call this treatment an ‘adjustment’ because of this difference.

Most people who have experienced both types of treatments and have had the differences explained, recognize that they are indeed two different methods.  Unfortunately, not all chiropractic colleges teach this philosophy and technique, and not all those who call themselves chiropractors actually provide chiropractic care.  Therefore it is important, if you want the benefits chiropractic can provide, to find someone who abides by chiropractic principles.

In our office we achieve marvelous results with our patients in all areas of pain relief and health care because we are removing nerve interference, allowing the nervous system to function better, and the body is then able to heal itself.  Call us today, and see if chiropractic might be the answer to your problem.

Getting rid of your pain,

Dr. Steven Ray, Chiropractor

Val Vista Chiropractic