chiropractic /kī′rōprak″tik/ [Gk, cheir, hand, practikos, efficient] , a system of therapy based on the theory that the state of a person’s health is determined in general by the condition of his or her nervous system. In most cases, treatment provided by chiropractors involves the mechanical manipulation of the spinal column. Some practitioners employ radiology for diagnosis and use physiotherapy and diet in addition to spinal manipulation. Chiropractic care does not include drugs or surgery. A chiropractor is awarded the degree of Doctor of Chiropractic, or D.C., after completing at least 2 years of premedical studies followed by 4 years of training in an approved chiropractic school. Compare allopathic physician, osteopath.
