Learn More About Chiropractic Care with These FAQs

Chiropractors in Australia are nationally registered and regulated health care profession. Chiropractic is a drug and surgery-free modality of treatment concerned with the diagnosis, management and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system; this includes the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. It is based on the teachings of Galen and Hippocrates and the premise that the body can respond appropriately to its environment, provided that the nervous system is free of interference. This was further developed by Palmer, leading to a focus on the spinal column and its functioning. In summary, chiropractors focus on detecting and correcting aberrant spinal function and its subsequent effect on how the nervous system controls and coordinates the body in response to its environment.

In Australia, chiropractors are educated in the University sector at an undergraduate and post-graduate level. There is a growing research and evidence base in Australia and through international federations. As with other healthcare professions, there are internationally and nationally recognised qualification standards to enable practise in Australia, which is part of the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme.

Chiropractors provide patient-centred care and work in partnership with the consumers of chiropractic services. This includes using shared decision-making through the informed consent process and using communication strategies tailored to the patient's needs and preferences. Sound clinical decision making takes account of patients’ priorities and values, clinicians’ values and experiences to provide treatment that maximises benefit with minimum risk of harm. This includes referral to other healthcare providers when indicated to ensure the best and most appropriate treatment and health outcome.

The usual chiropractic care of infants and young children involves the use of low-force low-amplitude techniques in contrast to those used on the adult population that typically involve more high velocity, low-amplitude thrust in combination with a variety of low-force low-amplitude treatment procedures.

Published studies and reports through the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme show that chiropractic is a low-risk health modality. While chiropractic treatment is generally considered safe, occasionally, it may cause adverse reactions in some people. Similar techniques by other practitioner groups who can practice restricted acts as defined by law also demonstrate low risk and harm.

Chiropractors are educated to modify manual spinal therapy to suit the age and presenting condition of a patient.

The Chiropractic Board of Australia registers chiropractors and, like all other registered health care providers, must adhere to National Law and profession specific codes of conduct and guidelines. The board's October 2015 Position Statement acknowledged that all accredited Australian Universities provide chiropractic paediatric management education. This incorporated an understanding of risks where identified and emphasised established clinical best practice guidelines for the treatment of children. 

There are gaps in the knowledge base concerning children’s chiropractic care, and more research is needed. What remains unchanged is that chiropractic care is delivered by university educated, regulated healthcare professionals. There is high expressed satisfaction by parents/guardians seeking the care of their children. The profession is committed to ensuring evidence-informed care is provided to patients.

All healthcare interventions carry a level of risk and treatment will be informed by evidence, clinician experience and patient participation. There is significant review and reform occurring in Australia to ensure that patients receive appropriate care, utilising effective treatments and underpinned by exemplary conduct. There are examples in all healthcare modalities where treatment choice, effectiveness and conduct are not optimal, it is not just about chiropractors and chiropractic, and all professions are experiencing change.