Chiropractic comes from the Greek words, “their” (hand) and “praxis” (practice or done by). It refers to the practice of manipulating the spine to treat disease. It is based on the theories of disease on the connections between various body structures and the nervous system via the spinal column and on the role of the spine in biomechanics and movement. Therapy is directed at the spine in order to modify the progression of the disease.
Chiropractic on dogs is the same as for humans and is a safe, effective form of treatment.
Spinal manipulation has been practiced for centuries in many cultures, including the early Chinese and Greeks. Modern chiropractic theory and practice have developed within the last century. They were used in various animal species, especially those with vertebrates.
Chiropractic involves manual manipulation of the affected joints and/or tissues, improving and/or restoring mobility and function. Through adjustments, chiropractic addresses the cause of illnesses, effectively removing the source of the symptoms and enabling the body to heal itself naturally.
Dogs just like humans can develop back problems that do not allow the animal to function to their maximum ability.
Like many holistic practitioners, chiropractors see the patient as a functional whole, rather than as a sum of its parts. Ensuring a normal range of motion of vertebrae helps optimise the function of lymphatics, blood vessels and nerves, which communicate between the spine and various body structures, allowing the body to function optimally to the point that further interventions may not be required. Applied correctly, it can alleviate or eliminate the need for long-term drug or hormone treatments. The success of treatment depends upon the degree of pathology present and the duration of the condition.