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SCA
Scope of Practice Definition (Adapted by the SCA from the Association
of Chiropractic Colleges)
Human
function is neurologically integrated. Doctors of Chiropractic evaluate
and facilitate biomechanical and neuro-biological function and integrity
through the use of appropriate conservative diagnostic and chiropractic
care procedures.
Direct
access to chiropractic care is integral to everyone’s health
care regime.
Because of
the relationship between the spine and the nervous system many people
seek chiropractic care for a great variety of health problems. It
would be fair to estimate that the majority of new patients have
either low back pain, sciatica, neck pain, shoulder and arm problems
and thoracic/chest pain, though more people are now looking for
help with other problems such as headaches, migraine, shoulder problems,
digestive & menstrual disorders, breathing problems and allergies.
Many people choose preventative chiropractic care to ensure optimal
spinal function, as part of their general health programme, which
may also include exercise and nutritional changes.
CHILDREN
Chiropractors are able to examine and evaluate a child’s spine
to determine if they can help problems such as colic, asthma, bedwetting,
eczema and sleeping difficulties. Chiropractors advise that a child’s
spine be checked for subluxations and postural distortions before
any symptoms are even present.
Spinal injury
may begin as early as birth if labour is prolonged, or if a forceps
delivery is necessary. In the early years of life falls from prams
and high chairs, tumbles down stairs and falling off beds can cause
the accumulation of injuries to a young child’s spine.
PREGNANCY
Most women can safely have chiropractic care throughout their entire
pregnancy. Current research indicates that lower back pain during
pregnancy is likely to be due to sacroiliac (pelvic joint) dysfunction
and has been shown to improve significantly with chiropractic adjustments
and joint mobilisation. The chiropractor will also be able to give
postural advice and exercises to help prepare your spine and pelvis
for delivery. Chiropractors know that proper function of the lower
back and pelvis will assist the birth process and many women have
confirmed this with their own experience.
SENIOR CITIZENS
It is never too late to receive the benefits of chiropractic care!
Years of spinal joint strains from accidents, sports and occupational
stress, may have caused wear and tear to the spine. Most people,
however, can be helped and even with advanced spinal degeneration,
significant improvement in movement and reduction in pain can be
obtained. After a consultation and examination the chiropractor
will be able to give a realistic estimate of the improvement possible
with each individual. In many research studies chiropractic has
scored consistently high in patient satisfaction scores.
ATHLETES AND
SPORTING INJURIES
Chiropractic treatment aims to restore joint mobility, improve muscle
balance and remove nerve irritation. Some chiropractors also have
an interest in the rehabilitation of injuries specific to particular
sports i.e. rugby, football, athletics, tennis, golf, etc. The goal
of care for the athlete is to enhance performance with optimum structural
and nervous system function, minimise the risk of injury and help
with the recovery should injuries occur. Chiropractic care throughout
the career of an athlete may also reduce the damage to their body
when they retire from their sport.
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