How to Know What Type of Chiropractor is Yours, Part 2
Most chiropractors fall into either the subluxation-based or broad scope schools of thought. The third category, allopathic chiropractic, is focused primarily on treatment of symptoms. (Allopathic is a term used to describe conventional Western medicine.)
Many allopathic chiropractors believe that their job is not to correct subluxation but to treat back pain. They may even question the existence of subluxations. Like conventional medical doctors, allopathic chiropractors are focused more on relieving symptoms through the use of whatever means are necessary, as opposed to correcting underlying causes. They usually treat a patient for five to six sessions, and if he or she isn't getting better, they refer the patient to an orthopedic physician, usually for surgery or drug therapy.
The kind of chiropractor you choose depends on what you want from your chiropractic care. If you want someone who specializes in adjustments and only adjustments, and who probably has an exceptional degree of precision and experience in doing them, then a subluxation-based chiropractor is your best choice.
If you like the idea of bringing in a wider range of treatment options from the alternative medicine field, or if you're already familiar and comfortable with another kind of alternative care, such as homeopathy, you may wish to find a broad scope chiropractor who has knowledge in that area. If you want only relief from pain and feel most comfortable with the kind of symptom-based care offered by conventional medicine, then an allopathic chiropractor might suit your needs.
It all depends on the kind of care you wish to receive and what you are most comfortable receiving.