Chiropractic is a primary health-care profession that specialises in the diagnosis, treatment and overall management of conditions that are due to problems with the joints, ligaments, tendons and nerves of the body, particularly those of the spine. Treatment consists of a wide range of manipulative techniques designed to improve the function of the joints, relieving pain and muscle spasm.
Chiropractic does not involve the use of any drugs or surgery.
As a result of the considerable scientific body of evidence regarding chiropractic care (spinal manipulation), international clinical guidelines in both Europe and North America recommend spinal manipulation as a first "line of defence" in treating spinal conditions. Major clinical studies comparing chiropractic care of spinal ailments with other commonly used treatments have been carried out in the UK and published in the British Medical Journal. These studies have proven that chiropractic care provides excellent results and is also cost-effective.
"...chiropractic has been demonstrated to be more effective for the management of lower back pain than conventional hospital outpatient care"
British Medical Journal, 2004.
"...spinal manipulation is a cost effective addition to "best care" for back pain"
British Medical Journal, 2004.
"...patients receiving chiropractic care for lower back pain were more satisfied with their care than patients receiving hospital outpatient care"
British Medical Journal, 1995.
At the Broadgate Spine Centre all patients undergo a thorough physical examination and an individual treatment strategy will be developed according to your needs. If the examination results indicate that you would be better served by another type of treatment you will be referred to the appropriate health professional. The advantages of working within a large group of highly specialized health professionals are obvious. Training is carried out in our newly fitted gym and supervised by leading physiotherapists and personal trainers.
Legislation
The legal framework within which chiropractors practise in the UK is comprehensive and, therefore, very detailed. It consists of the Chiropractors Act 1994 (the primary legislation) and 15 associated Statutory Instruments, commonly called 'the Rules' (the secondary legislation).
Chiropractors have to comply with a variety of other more general legal requirements, for example health and safety and data protection. More detailed information regarding the practice of chiropractic can be found on www.gcc-uk.org, the website of the General Chiropractic Council. Information about the British Chiropractic Association can be found on www.chiropractic-uk.co.uk.