What Is Chiropractic?

About Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic is a hands-on, drug-free health care discipline focused on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders — with particular emphasis on the spine and its relationship to the nervous system.

Close-up illustration of cervical spine anatomy

The Discipline

A Science, Art, and Philosophy of Health

Chiropractic was founded on the principle that the body has an innate intelligence — a self-regulating, self-healing capacity governed by the central nervous system. Doctors of chiropractic (DCs) train for four years at accredited chiropractic colleges following undergraduate science education, studying anatomy, physiology, neurology, radiology, and clinical diagnosis.

The primary clinical tool is the spinal adjustment — a precise, controlled force applied to a vertebral joint to restore proper motion, reduce nerve irritation, and support the body’s healing processes.

At Total Health Family Clinic, our four licensed DCs combine adjustments with soft-tissue therapy, rehabilitative exercise, and thorough medical documentation — providing complete care for injury patients and general wellness patients alike.

How It Works

The Science Behind Chiropractic

Chiropractic care is grounded in anatomy, neurology, and evidence-based clinical practice.

Spinal Assessment

Your DC performs a comprehensive evaluation — including posture analysis, range of motion testing, orthopedic tests, and neurological screening — to identify areas of dysfunction.

Identifying Subluxations

Vertebral subluxations are misalignments that reduce joint motion and irritate surrounding nerves. X-rays and motion palpation help locate them precisely.

Chiropractic Adjustment

A controlled, specific force restores normal vertebral movement, reduces nerve interference, and initiates the body’s natural healing response.

Who Benefits

Chiropractic Care Is for Every Stage of Life

From pediatric patients to seniors, chiropractic can be adapted to any age or condition.

Accident & Injury Patients

Auto accident, work injury, and slip-and-fall patients benefit most from early chiropractic intervention — faster recovery and thorough documentation for legal claims.

Chronic Pain Sufferers

Patients with ongoing back pain, neck pain, headaches, and sciatica often find lasting relief through regular chiropractic care when other treatments have fallen short.

Wellness & Prevention

Even without acute pain, chiropractic maintenance care helps keep the spine aligned, supports nervous system function, and reduces the risk of future injury.

Children & Adolescents

Pediatric chiropractic uses gentle, low-force techniques appropriate for developing spines. Safe and effective for posture issues, sports injuries, and general wellness.

Pregnant Patients

Chiropractic during pregnancy relieves back pain, pelvic discomfort, and round ligament pain using modified techniques that are safe for mother and baby.

Seniors

Low-force adjustments help older adults manage arthritis pain, spinal stenosis, and balance issues — improving quality of life and reducing fall risk.

Ready to Start Your Recovery?

Get Expert Care — For Your Personal Injury Case, No Upfront Cost

Call either Maryland location or book online. We can often see you the same day.

📞 (301) 322-7777Book Appointment