Chiropractor: meaning, definitions and examples
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chiropractor
[ ˌkaɪrəˈpræktər ]
medical profession
A chiropractor is a healthcare professional focused on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, with an emphasis on treatment through manual adjustment and/or manipulation of the spine. Chiropractors seek to reduce pain and improve functionality by realigning the vertebral column and addressing other musculoskeletal complaints. This field operates on the principle that optimal nervous system function is necessary for overall health and wellness. Regular visits to a chiropractor can help in managing ongoing discomfort and preventive care.
Synonyms
manual therapist, musculoskeletal therapist, spinal specialist.
Examples of usage
- I visited a chiropractor for my back pain.
- She works as a chiropractor and has many satisfied clients.
- Chiropractors often suggest exercises to support treatment.
- He felt immediate relief after seeing the chiropractor.
Etymology
The term 'chiropractor' is derived from the Greek words 'chiro', meaning hand, and 'praktikos', meaning practical or done by hand. The profession itself began in the late 19th century, primarily through the work of Daniel David Palmer, who founded chiropractic in 1895 after performing a spinal adjustment on a patient who claimed to have lost his hearing. Palmer's practice was initially met with skepticism, but it gained popularity over the years, leading to the establishment of chiropractic schools and professional organizations. The focus on spinal adjustments as a means to restore health marked a significant shift in how musculoskeletal issues were treated. By the mid-20th century, chiropractic had gained broader acceptance within the healthcare community, and today it represents a significant aspect of complementary and alternative medicine, with millions of people seeking chiropractic care annually.