Meiri Chiropractic’s Glossary of Commonly Used Chiropractic Terms and Vocabulary

Posted on February 22, 2021December 1, 2022 by

Learning all the chiropractic vocabulary and commonly used terms can feel overwhelming. Therefore, Meiri chiropractic’s glossary of commonly used chiropractic terms and vocabulary should help you make the most of your appointments. By familiarizing yourself with basic chiropractic terminology beforehand, you can be sure to understand your prognosis. Then you can ask your chiropractor the proper questions after your examination. Review the list of terms below for a more productive appointment!

Acute (traumatic) Injuries

Injuries that occur due to a traumatic and unexpected event such as a fall, a car accident, or a sports injury.

Adjustments

The chiropractic adjustment or manipulation is a manual procedure applying a gentle yet firm thrust, typically delivered in the direction of reduced joint motion to restore normal motion and alignment. Spinal or extremity joint dysfunction, termed subluxation (chiropractic subluxation complex), can adversely affect nerve function, and the body’s ability to regulate and maintain health. Chiropractic adjustments address disturbed joint biomechanics and the associated effects on nervous system function.

Arthritis

A gradual breakdown, or deterioration, of the joint spaces in your musculoskeletal system. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. There are many different types of arthritis. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Bulging Disc 

A bulging disc occurs when the spongy discs in the spine become compressed, usually due to age related degeneration.

Chiropractic 

A healthcare discipline which emphasizes the inherent recuperative ability of the body to heal itself without the use of drugs or surgery. In practice, chiropractic “focuses on the relationship of structure (primarily the spine) and function (as coordinated by the nervous system) and how that relationship effects the preservation and restoration of health.

Chiropractor

A Chiropractic Physician also known as a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.), diagnoses and treats a broad range of physical conditions in patients with muscular, nervous and skeletal system problems.

Doctors of chiropractic are extensively educated in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the spinal and extremity joints and associated neurology. Furthermore, based on examination findings and indication for care, the chiropractor will recommend a course of care to help relieve pain and improve function.

Disc Herniation

Extrusion of the nucleus pulposus (jelly-like center of the disc) into a defect in the annulus fibrosus (tough circular exterior of the intervertebral disc).

Electrical Muscle Stimulation (E.M.S.)

A form of electrical stimulation applied by the chiropractor designed to help reduce swelling and inflammation.

Extremity

Limb (anatomy); arms and legs.

Homeopathy

A system of medicine that uses extremely dilute concentrations of specially prepared plants, animals and minerals to stimulate the body’s defense mechanisms and healing processes. Additionally, it is nontoxic, and when administered according to homeopathic principles, are safe in infants, children, and adults.

Soft Tissue Manipulation Techniques

Are defined as those physical methods applied to muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and other connective tissues with the goal of therapeutically affecting the body.

Sprain

Joint injury in which some of the fibers of a supporting ligament are ruptured, but in which the continuity of the ligament remains intact.

Strain

An overstretching and tearing of musculotendinous tissue.

Subacute

Less than acute, between acute and chronic.

Meiri Chiropractic’s Glossary of Commonly Used Chiropractic Terms and Vocabulary was meant to be informative for terms used in our office. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions at 561-253-8984. Meiri Chiropractic offers the best comprehensive alternative treatment solutions for patients in West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Juno Beach, and North Palm Beach. Call for an appointment or to learn more today.

References:

Chiropractic Technique- Bergmann, Peterson pp.84, 419

Meiri Chiropractic

5601 Corporate Way, STE 102

West Palm Beach, FL 33407

561-253-8984

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