Chiropractors

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,