Chiropractic is a health care discipline that emphasizes the inherent recuperative power of the body to heal itself without the use of drugs or surgery. The practice of chiropractic focuses on the relationship between structure (primarily of the spine) and function (as coordinated by the nervous system) and how that relationship affects the preservation and restoration of health. In addition, Doctors of Chiropractic recognize the value and responsibility of working in cooperation with other health care practitioners when in the best interest of the patient.

The Pennsylvania State Chiropractic Association continues to foster a unique and distinct chiropractic profession that serves as a health care discipline for all. The Association advocates a profession that generates, develops and utilizes the highest level of evidence available in the provision of effective, prudent and cost-conscious patient evaluation and care.

· Doctors of Chiropractic use natural or non-invasive approaches including manual interventions (for example, spinal adjustments, a specific form of manipulation), physical therapy services, exercise programs, nutritional counseling, lifestyle modification and other patient education.

· Doctors of Chiropractic provide conservative management for patients with neuromusculoskeletal disorders including, but not limited to, back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Although chiropractic patients are typically under care for musculoskeletal conditions, patients often find a variety of other conditions respond to chiropractic care. Abnormal motion and position of the spinal bones that causes nerve interference is called a vertebral subluxation. Sometimes this condition is also called somatic dysfunction.

· Doctors of Chiropractic encourage periodic spinal examinations and preventive or wellness care. Our professional goal is normal function of the neuromusculoskeletal system throughout life for the optimum expression of health. Just as patients choose the level of care they prefer from the family dentist, many people enjoy the benefits of regular chiropractic care.

Chiropractic was founded in the United States in 1895 and is now established in over 70 countries. There are approximately 65,000 Doctors of Chiropractic in the United States and 90,000 internationally.