Chiropractic is a natural method of health care that is focused on treating the cause of physical problems rather than just the symptoms. This is based on the scientific fact that your nervous system controls and coordinates the function of every cell, tissue, muscle and organ in your entire body. The nervous system is comprised of structures including your brain, spinal cord and the millions of nerves that run throughout your body. To protect these delicate structures the body formed a skull to protect the brain and 24 moveable vertebrae to surround and support the spinal cord. Activities of daily living can cause these spinal bones (vertebrae) to lose their normal motion or position. This is known as the Vertebral Subluxation Complex which irritates the delicate nerve tissue in the surrounding area. To determine the exact area of these vertebral subluxations a chiropractor conducts a thorough health history as well as a physical examination including orthopedic and neurological testing, often times x-rays are also needed to see the actual malposition of the vertebrae. After careful review of the examination and x-ray findings the exact location of misalignment is noted. If the condition is a chiropractic case the chiropractor will then use a specific force in a precise direction to help normalize the spinal position of each vertebrae. This force of manipulation is called an adjustment which helps return the vertebrae to a more normal position or motion relieving symptoms and pain. With a normally functioning spine and a healthy lifestyle, your body is better able to heal itself. Doctors of chiropractic are uniquely qualified to restore the health of your spine. Today's chiropractic doctors receive the same number of college and post-graduate classroom hours as medical doctors. Just as regular dental exams detect and prevent tooth decay, regular chiropractic spinal screenings are just as important. Even if you do not have symptoms, chiropractic evaluation is one of the best ways to help prevent spinal problems. The sooner you seek chiropractic care, the sooner spinal malfunction can be detected, corrected and future problems prevented.