Browse 37 essential chiropractor terms and definitions used by professionals in Savannah.
Term Index
Open any term below for a dedicated definition page.
Active Release Technique is a patented soft-tissue treatment method that combines precise manual pressure with patient movement to break up scar tissue and adhesions in muscles, tendons, And ligaments. Developed by chiropractor P. Michael Leahy, it aims to restore pain-free motion and function by targeting injured or overused tissues directly.
Adjustment is a controlled, manual force applied by a chiropractor to a specific joint in the spine or other body part to restore proper movement, reduce pain, And improve function. Adjustments are precise and often produce a popping sound caused by gas releasing from the joint.
Back pain is discomfort, soreness, Or stiffness felt anywhere along the spine, from the neck to the lower back. Back pain can be sharp, dull, constant, Or occasional, And may limit movement or daily activities. It often results from muscle strain, joint stress, nerve irritation.
Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist is a chiropractor who has completed advanced training and passed rigorous exams in neurology, focusing on diagnosing and treating nervous system disorders without surgery or drugs. This certification is granted by the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (ACNB) after hundreds of extra study hours and clinical testing.
CBP is Chiropractic BioPhysics, a specialized chiropractic technique that combines spinal adjustments, corrective exercises, And posture training to improve spinal alignment and overall health. CBP uses scientific measurements and X-rays to create personalized treatment plans aimed at restoring normal spinal structure and function.
Chiropractic is a healthcare profession focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine. Chiropractors use hands-on spinal adjustments and other manual therapies to improve alignment, relieve pain, And support the body’s natural ability to heal. Treatment often addresses back pain, neck pain, headaches, And joint issues without surgery or medication.
Chiropractic Activator is a handheld, spring-loaded instrument used by chiropractors to deliver a precise, low-force impulse to specific areas of the spine or joints. It aims to restore proper movement, reduce pain, And improve nervous system function without manual twisting or cracking.
Chiropractic Adjustment is a hands-on procedure where a licensed chiropractor applies controlled force to a specific joint in the spine or other body parts. The goal is to improve alignment, reduce nerve irritation, And restore normal movement. Adjustments are often used to relieve back pain, neck pain, headaches, And joint discomfort without surgery or medication.
Chiropractic BioPhysics is a chiropractic technique that combines biology, physiology, physics, And geometry to analyze and correct spinal alignment and posture. It uses precise measurements, X-rays, And tailored exercises to restore a patient’s spine to its ideal shape, aiming to reduce pain and improve function over time.
Chiropractic Board is chiropractic Boards are state-level governing bodies that regulate chiropractic practice, license chiropractors, set professional standards, And enforce laws to protect public health. They ensure chiropractors meet education, examination, And ethical requirements before practicing.
Chiropractic Care Plan is a personalized, written schedule of treatments created by a licensed chiropractor to address a patient’s specific musculoskeletal issues, pain, Or mobility goals. It outlines the types of adjustments, therapies, exercises, And follow-up visits needed to improve spinal health and overall well-being over a set period.
Chiropractic License is an official state-issued credential that permits a practitioner to legally diagnose and treat neuromusculoskeletal conditions using chiropractic methods. It confirms the practitioner has completed accredited education, passed national board exams, And met ethical and competency standards set by state regulatory boards.
Chiropractic Manipulation is a hands-on treatment where a licensed chiropractor applies controlled force to a joint, usually in the spine, to improve motion, reduce pain, And restore function. This process often produces a popping sound called cavitation, caused by gas bubbles releasing from the joint fluid. It is also known as a chiropractic adjustment and is a core part of chiropractic care.
Chiropractic Mobilization is a gentle, hands-on technique used by chiropractors to improve joint movement and reduce stiffness. Unlike high-velocity adjustments, mobilization involves slow, controlled stretches and movements to restore flexibility and ease discomfort without cracking or popping joints.
Chiropractic Neurology is a specialized branch of chiropractic care that focuses on diagnosing and treating nervous system disorders through non-surgical, drug-free methods. Chiropractic Neurologists assess brain and nerve function using clinical exams, sensory tests, And movement analysis to identify imbalances. Treatment often includes spinal adjustments, eye exercises, balance training.
Chiropractic Radiology is a specialized field within chiropractic care that uses medical imaging, such as X-rays, MRI, And CT scans, to diagnose spinal and musculoskeletal conditions. Chiropractic radiologists interpret these images to identify misalignments, fractures, arthritis.
Chiropractic School is a graduate-level educational institution that trains students to become licensed chiropractors. It focuses on diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, primarily through manual spinal adjustments and other non-invasive techniques. Programs typically require 3-4 years of study after a bachelor’s degree and include clinical training.
Chiropractic Scope of Practice is the set of legally defined procedures, treatments, And services that licensed chiropractors are permitted to perform in a specific state or jurisdiction. It outlines what chiropractors can diagnose, treat, And manage, as well as any restrictions on their practice, ensuring patient safety and professional accountability.
Chiropractic Table is chiropractic Tables are specialized medical tables designed to support patients during chiropractic adjustments and therapies. Chiropractic Tables provide stability, adjustability, And comfort while allowing chiropractors to safely manipulate the spine, joints, And soft tissues. These tables often include features like drop sections, elevation controls, And padding to enhance treatment precision and patient relaxation.
Chiropractic X-ray is a specialized imaging technique used by chiropractors to examine the spine, joints, And skeletal structure for misalignments, injuries, Or abnormalities. These X-rays help chiropractors create precise treatment plans by showing bone positioning, disc spacing, And potential issues like fractures or arthritis. Unlike general medical X-rays, chiropractic X-rays focus on spinal alignment and posture analysis to guide adjustments and therapies.
Disc Herniation is a spinal condition where the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in its tough outer layer. This can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, Or weakness in the back, arms, Or legs. Disc herniations often occur in the lower back or neck due to injury, wear and tear, Or improper lifting.
Diversified Technique is a widely used chiropractic method that involves hands-on spinal adjustments to correct misalignments, improve joint function, And reduce pain. Chiropractors apply precise, controlled force to specific joints, often producing a popping sound as gas releases from the joint. This technique is adaptable for patients of all ages and conditions.
Flexion Distraction is a gentle, non-surgical chiropractic technique designed to relieve spinal pain and improve mobility. Flexion Distraction uses a specialized table to stretch and decompress the spine, reducing pressure on discs and nerves. This method is often used for conditions like herniated discs, sciatica, And chronic back pain, offering a safe alternative to surgery or medication.
Gonstead Technique is a precise, hands-on chiropractic method that focuses on identifying and correcting specific spinal misalignments. Gonstead Technique uses detailed analysis, including X-rays and palpation, to locate problem areas and applies targeted adjustments to restore proper spinal function and relieve pain.
Graston Technique is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization used by chiropractors, physical therapists, And other healthcare providers to detect and treat scar tissue, fascial restrictions, And muscle adhesions. Graston Technique involves specialized stainless-steel tools to break down tight tissues, improve blood flow, And accelerate healing in muscles, tendons, And ligaments.
Joint Dysfunction is a condition where a joint in the body moves improperly or loses its normal range of motion, often causing pain, stiffness, Or reduced function. It can result from injury, overuse, poor posture, Or underlying conditions like arthritis. Chiropractors commonly address joint dysfunction to restore proper movement and relieve discomfort.
Licensed Chiropractor is a healthcare professional who has completed accredited chiropractic education, passed national board exams, And obtained state licensure to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions, primarily through spinal adjustments and manual therapies. Licensed Chiropractors must adhere to legal standards, continuing education requirements.
Lower Back Pain is discomfort, stiffness, Or aching in the area between the bottom of the rib cage and the top of the legs, often caused by muscle strain, disc problems, Or joint issues. Lower Back Pain can range from mild to severe and may limit movement, affect daily activities, Or signal an underlying condition requiring medical attention.
National Board of Chiropractic Examiners is an independent, nonprofit organization that develops and administers standardized exams to assess the knowledge and skills of chiropractic students and graduates. These exams help ensure chiropractors meet national competency standards before obtaining licensure to practice in the United States.
NCMIC is the largest provider of malpractice insurance and financial services tailored specifically for chiropractors in the United States. NCMIC offers liability coverage, business protection, And risk management resources to help chiropractors meet legal requirements, reduce financial risks, And focus on patient care without fear of lawsuits.
Pinched Nerve is a condition where too much pressure is applied to a nerve by surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, Or tendons. This pressure disrupts the nerve’s function, causing pain, tingling, numbness, Or weakness. Pinched Nerves often occur in the spine, wrists.
Sciatica is pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. Sciatica typically affects only one side of the body and occurs when the nerve is compressed or irritated, often due to a herniated disc, bone spur, Or muscle tightness.
Scoliosis is a medical condition where the spine curves sideways, often forming a C or S shape instead of a straight line. It can occur at any age but is most commonly detected during growth spurts in adolescence. The curvature may be mild, moderate, Or severe and can sometimes lead to pain, posture changes, Or breathing difficulties if left untreated.
Soft Tissue Therapy is a hands-on treatment method that targets muscles, tendons, ligaments, And fascia to reduce pain, improve mobility, And promote healing. Soft Tissue Therapy uses techniques like massage, stretching, And pressure to break up scar tissue, release tension.
Spinal Decompression is a non-surgical treatment designed to relieve pressure on the spine and spinal nerves. It involves gently stretching the spine using a motorized table or traction device to create negative pressure within spinal discs, helping herniated or bulging discs retract and promoting healing.
Spinal subluxation is a partial dislocation or misalignment of one or more vertebrae in the spine, which may interfere with nerve function and overall health. Chiropractors identify and correct subluxations to restore proper movement, reduce pain, And support the body’s natural healing ability. It's not a complete dislocation but a subtle shift that can cause discomfort or dysfunction.
Thompson Technique is a gentle, low-force chiropractic method that uses a special adjusting table with drop pieces to help realign the spine. Thompson Technique relies on precise patient positioning and quick, controlled thrusts that trigger the table’s segments to drop slightly, reducing the force needed to correct misalignments while improving patient comfort and safety.
