A chiropractor is a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the musculoskeletal system—particularly issues involving the spine, joints, and nervous system. Though they’re best known for spinal adjustments, the scope of chiropractic care reaches far beyond back pain relief. It’s a holistic, drug-free approach to healthcare that helps improve overall well-being by enhancing the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply aiming for better mobility and posture, understanding the role of a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) can help you take control of your health. This blog will cover everything you need to know about what chiropractors do, how they treat patients, and what makes them a vital part of modern wellness care.

What Is a Chiropractor?

A chiropractor, formally known as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC), is trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly those affecting spinal alignment and nerve function. Chiropractors focus on correcting these disorders through manual adjustments and other non-invasive techniques, with the goal of restoring proper function and eliminating pain at its source.

Unlike traditional medical doctors, chiropractors do not prescribe medications or perform surgery. Instead, they emphasize manual therapy, exercise, lifestyle education, and nutrition as core components of their treatment plans.

Education and Training

Becoming a chiropractor involves extensive education and hands-on training. The journey typically includes:

• Undergraduate Degree: Most chiropractors earn a 4-year undergraduate degree with a focus on science courses such as biology, anatomy, and physiology.
• Doctor of Chiropractic Program: This is a rigorous 4-year program that includes courses in human anatomy, chiropractic technique, clinical diagnosis, neurology, radiology, and ethics.
• Clinical Internship: Students must complete a clinical rotation under the supervision of a licensed chiropractor to gain real-world experience.
• Licensing Exams: Chiropractors must pass national and sometimes state board exams to become licensed practitioners.

Many chiropractors also pursue additional certifications in specialties like sports medicine, pediatrics, functional medicine, or rehabilitation therapy.

The Chiropractic Philosophy

At the heart of chiropractic care is the belief that the body is self-healing and self-regulating. Chiropractors believe that many health problems originate from disturbances in the nervous system caused by misalignments in the spine—commonly referred to as subluxations.

When spinal vertebrae are misaligned, they can interfere with nerve communication between the brain and body. This can result in pain, dysfunction, and poor overall health. By correcting these misalignments, chiropractors help restore the body’s natural ability to heal, without the need for drugs or invasive procedures.

What Does a Chiropractic Appointment Involve?

Your first visit to a chiropractor will usually involve a thorough examination and an in-depth discussion of your health history and symptoms. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

1. Health History & Consultation

The chiropractor will ask about your symptoms, previous injuries, medical history, lifestyle habits, diet, and stress levels. This helps them understand the root cause of your discomfort rather than just treating symptoms.

2. Physical Examination

This may include:

• Range of motion tests
• Posture and gait analysis
• Reflex and neurological checks
• Muscle strength testing
• Palpation of the spine and surrounding tissues

Some chiropractors also utilize diagnostic imaging (like X-rays or MRIs) to gain more insight into spinal alignment and joint health.

3. Diagnosis and Treatment Plan

Based on the assessment, the chiropractor will identify the cause of your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan. This plan often includes spinal adjustments, rehabilitative exercises, and lifestyle modifications.

Chiropractic Techniques and Treatments

While spinal adjustments are the most well-known aspect of chiropractic care, chiropractors use a variety of techniques and tools to treat their patients. These include:

1. Spinal Manipulation/Adjustment

This hands-on technique involves applying controlled force to a spinal joint to restore alignment, improve mobility, and relieve pressure on nerves.

2. Instrument-Assisted Adjustments

Using tools like the Activator Method, chiropractors deliver low-force, targeted adjustments—especially helpful for patients who prefer gentler treatments.

3. Drop Table Adjustments

Specialized chiropractic tables allow for precise and comfortable adjustments with added support and stability.

4. Myofascial Release and Soft Tissue Therapy

These techniques help release tension and scar tissue in muscles and fascia, improving mobility and reducing pain.

5. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Your chiropractor may recommend specific stretches or exercises to support spinal alignment, improve posture, and prevent future injuries.

6. Ergonomic and Lifestyle Counseling

Chiropractors provide guidance on how to optimize your posture, desk setup, sleep habits, and movement patterns to reduce physical strain and stress.

Conditions Treated by Chiropractors

Contrary to popular belief, chiropractic care isn’t just for back pain. Chiropractors treat a wide variety of conditions, including:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches and migraines
• Sciatica
• Herniated or bulging discs
• Whiplash injuries
• TMJ (jaw) pain
• Scoliosis
• Sports injuries
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Joint pain (shoulders, knees, hips)
• Plantar fasciitis

Many patients also seek chiropractic care as a preventive measure or for general wellness maintenance.

Benefits of Seeing a Chiropractor

The benefits of chiropractic care are wide-ranging, including:

• Pain Relief: Relief from back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint discomfort.
• Improved Mobility: Increased range of motion and flexibility.
• Better Posture: Enhanced awareness and correction of postural imbalances.
• Stress Reduction: Relief of tension held in the muscles and nervous system.
• Fewer Medications: A natural alternative to painkillers and muscle relaxants.
• Boosted Immune Function: Optimized nervous system function supports the immune system.
• Enhanced Athletic Performance: Many athletes use chiropractic care to stay injury-free and improve performance.

Chiropractic Care as Preventive Healthcare

Even if you’re not experiencing pain, chiropractic care can be an effective part of a preventive health strategy. Regular adjustments help maintain spinal alignment, promote better nerve function, and catch small issues before they become major problems.

Chiropractors often work with patients on wellness goals such as:

• Reducing stress
• Improving sleep
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Enhancing daily function

Are Chiropractors Real Doctors?

Yes, chiropractors are considered doctors—but not in the same way as medical doctors (MDs). Chiropractors hold a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and are licensed healthcare professionals who must complete extensive education, training, and licensing exams to practice.

While they don’t perform surgeries or prescribe medications, chiropractors are trained in physical assessment, radiology, diagnosis, and treatment planning. Many chiropractors work in integrative health clinics alongside medical doctors, physical therapists, and nutritionists.

What Makes a Good Chiropractor?

When choosing a chiropractor, look for someone who:

• Takes time to listen and explain your treatment
• Offers a customized plan rather than a one-size-fits-all approach
• Uses modern equipment and techniques
• Encourages wellness beyond just pain relief
• Has positive reviews and patient testimonials
• Maintains licensure and continuing education

A trustworthy chiropractor will focus on patient education, clear communication, and transparency in care and billing.

Chiropractic in San Jose, CA: A Holistic Solution

For residents in the San Jose area, Adapt Health Clinic offers comprehensive chiropractic care with a focus on personalized healing and wellness. Whether you’ve been dealing with chronic discomfort, recovering from an injury, or just want to move and feel better, the team at Adapt Health Clinic can guide you toward real, lasting relief. Their patient-first approach, evidence-based methods, and deep understanding of spinal health make them one of the top chiropractic choices in the region.

Final Thoughts: Your Spine, Your Health

A chiropractor is much more than a spine specialist—they’re a vital partner in your health journey. With their hands-on skills and deep understanding of the musculoskeletal system, chiropractors provide safe, effective, and natural care to help you move better, feel better, and live better.

Whether you’re struggling with pain or simply want to maintain a healthier body, chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, holistic path toward healing and vitality.

Up Next: Are chiropractic adjustments good for you?
Learn the truth about spinal adjustments, how they work, and whether they’re right for you in our next blog post.