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What Exactly Does a Chiropractor Do?
- Brentwood Chiropractic Group
- May 25
- 5 min read
A Comprehensive Guide to Chiropractic Care
Introduction
Chiropractic care is a hands-on, non-invasive healthcare discipline focused on diagnosing and treating disorders related to the spine, joints, and muscles. At Brentwood Chiropractic Group, our team works with people across Brentwood Bay and Central Saanich to restore movement, relieve pain, and support long-term health—without the use of medication or surgery.
But what exactly does a chiropractor do?
From spinal adjustments and joint mobilizations to soft tissue therapy and injury rehab, chiropractic care is an evidence-informed approach to better biomechanics and mobility. This guide explains how chiropractors are trained, what conditions they treat, and how they fit into modern interdisciplinary healthcare.
1. What Is Chiropractic Care?
Origins and Core Philosophy
Chiropractic care began in 1895 with Daniel David Palmer, who believed that dysfunctions in spinal movement could affect nervous system performance and health. The term "chiropractic" means "done by hand" in Greek—reflecting its hands-on, therapeutic roots.
Today, chiropractic care continues to focus on restoring joint motion, relieving pressure on nerves, and helping people move better. Treatment is individualized, non-invasive, and rooted in improving how the body functions as a whole.
2. The Education and Training of a Chiropractor
Academic Requirements
Chiropractors complete extensive post-secondary training through accredited institutions such as Palmer College of Chiropractic [8] or the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC). Programs include in-depth coursework in anatomy, neurophysiology, diagnostic imaging, and hands-on clinical practice.
International standards for chiropractic education are outlined by the World Health Organization [1], ensuring consistency in training and patient safety.
Licensing and Certification
Chiropractors in Canada must pass national exams from the NBCE [4] and meet provincial standards, such as those set by the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO) [18]. They are required to complete continuing education and may pursue further training in areas like sports therapy, pediatric care, and movement optimization.
3. Scope of Practice: What Chiropractors Actually Do
Clinical Role and Expertise
Chiropractors assess and treat issues related to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Their work includes identifying movement restrictions, performing joint manipulations, reducing muscle tension, and helping patients return to pain-free function.
At Brentwood Chiropractic Group, our chiropractors take a whole-body approach to care—helping with everything from posture correction to recovery from sports injuries and repetitive strain.
Chiropractic vs. Other Healthcare Providers
Unlike medical doctors (MDs), chiropractors don’t prescribe medications or perform surgeries. They focus on improving biomechanical function through manual therapy, clinical reasoning, and rehabilitative exercises.
At our Brentwood Bay clinic, we work collaboratively with massage therapists, athletic therapists, and acupuncturists to provide integrated, personalized care for every patient.
4. Core Techniques Used in Chiropractic Treatment
Spinal Adjustments and Joint Manipulation
Spinal adjustments—also called high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) manipulations—are a central technique in chiropractic care. These quick, controlled thrusts aim to restore motion to restricted joints and reduce discomfort from nerve irritation.
When needed, chiropractors may use low-force mobilizations, which are gentler, slower techniques suitable for older adults or individuals with chronic pain.
Manual Therapy Techniques
In addition to adjustments, chiropractors often perform hands-on treatments such as:
Trigger point therapy
Soft tissue release
Joint mobilization
Myofascial techniques
These techniques help release tension, improve circulation, and reduce pain caused by overuse, injury, or postural strain.
5. What Conditions Do Chiropractors Treat?
Common Musculoskeletal Complaints
Chiropractors regularly treat:
Back and neck pain
Sciatica
Tension headaches and migraines
Joint pain and stiffness
Repetitive strain injuries
Shoulder, hip, and knee dysfunction
Our team at Brentwood Chiropractic Group works with people of all ages across Central Saanich to address these issues and restore pain-free movement.
Prevention and Performance
Beyond injury recovery, chiropractic care supports long-term movement health. Many of our patients visit us to improve posture, enhance athletic performance, or prevent future pain through ergonomic advice and functional assessments.
6. Care for Specialized Populations
Pediatric Chiropractic
Chiropractors trained in pediatric care can assist with conditions like torticollis, scoliosis, and posture imbalances. Care is gentle, customized, and safe for children and adolescents.
Chiropractic for Athletes
From weekend warriors to competitive athletes, chiropractic care supports faster recovery, injury prevention, and performance optimization. Our Brentwood Bay clinic frequently works with soccer players, runners, and active adults seeking mobility-focused therapy.
Prenatal and Senior Care
Prenatal chiropractic helps manage lower back and pelvic pain during pregnancy, while senior care focuses on improving mobility, balance, and quality of life. Our team tailors care to each life stage.
7. Scientific Evidence and Standards
What the Research Shows
Chiropractic care is supported by evidence for the treatment of chronic and mechanical back pain. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health [5], spinal manipulation is considered safe and effective for many musculoskeletal issues.
A recent Cochrane Review [2] analyzed 47 randomized controlled trials, showing that spinal manipulation can be as effective as other standard treatments for chronic low back pain.
Evolution Toward Evidence-Informed Practice
Modern chiropractors follow clinical guidelines, integrate research, and work collaboratively with other professionals. Groups like the American Chiropractic Association [3] and WHO [16] continue to promote evidence-based standards for care, education, and regulation.
8. Chiropractors in Today’s Healthcare System
Collaborative and Community-Based Care
Chiropractors now play an essential role in interdisciplinary healthcare teams, offering conservative treatment that complements physiotherapy, massage, and primary medical care. At Brentwood Chiropractic Group, we routinely coordinate with local practitioners to provide integrated, patient-centered support.
Standards and Accountability
Chiropractors in Canada must maintain licensure, uphold ethical standards, and engage in continuous learning. As outlined in the WHO guidelines [1], chiropractic care remains a regulated, science-informed profession with strong safety protocols.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does a chiropractor do?
Chiropractors use manual techniques to improve joint motion, relieve pain, and help the body function more efficiently. This includes spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and functional movement strategies.
Is chiropractic care safe?
Yes—when provided by a licensed professional, chiropractic is safe for most people. Research from the NIH [6] and WHO [1] affirms its safety, especially for mechanical back and neck pain.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor in BC?
No referral is required. Chiropractors are primary contact providers in British Columbia, meaning you can book directly.
What conditions do chiropractors treat?
They commonly treat back pain, neck pain, joint dysfunction, muscle strain, headaches, and movement restrictions. Care is also tailored to different age groups and activity levels.
Is chiropractic care covered by insurance?
Yes. Most extended health benefit plans in Canada cover chiropractic care. Brentwood Chiropractic Group also accepts ICBC claims for motor vehicle accident-related treatments.
Can chiropractic care help with posture?
Absolutely. Chiropractors assess postural imbalances and develop plans that may include manual therapy, stretches, and ergonomic coaching to improve alignment and prevent future pain.
Ready to experience chiropractic care in Brentwood Bay? Contact Brentwood Chiropractic Group to book your appointment and take the first step toward pain-free movement.
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