Most people are wary about complementary and alternative medicine or CAM because of the flak it received from medical organizations. However, all is well now between the two camps and even medical doctors now prescribe CAM for therapy. The most popular CAM providers at present are chiropractors, chiropractic practitioners, and chiropractic clinics. They are also the most prescribed CAM treatment providers. Not surprising because the treatment chiropractors, chiropractic practitioners, and chiropractic clinics provide are not based on wooly assumptions. The treatments are based on basic and rather medical principles.

The work of chiropractors, chiropractic practitioners, and chiropractic clinics are based upon a fundamental principle. It states that a body has self-healing properties based on spine alignment and nerve flow. Simply put, diseases and pain are caused by interruption in the nerve flow due to misalignment of the spine or "subluxation." A body can heal itself when the spine's alignment is corrected. These corrections are very different from traditional medical procedures and can be very disconcerting if you don't know what to expect. Though these CAM providers are trained and certified individuals, it won't hurt to have a clue before you visit.

Initial consultations usually involve interviews about your medical history and experiences with treatment procedures. Chiropractors, chiropractic practitioners, and chiropractic therapists will take the time to brief you about the different services they provide. They will also explain the principles behind the treatment. This is your chance to ask questions and clarify your doubts about the treatment. As professionals, chiropractors will not perform any treatment, unless you are absolutely sure about going through the procedure. If all goes well, your chiropractor will require you to undergo a full physical examination. Expect basic tests like X-rays and spine examination. Your chiropractor will base his treatment plan on your exam results.

When you finally go for treatment, do not be surprised to see another chiropractor. Sometimes, treatments may require professional assistance. Chiropractors, chiropractic practitioners, or chiropractic therapists may perform an adjustment or two. Dubbed as manipulation treatment, this involves manual therapy. Through applying pressure and massage techniques in your spine, the chiropractors, chiropractic practitioners, and chiropractic therapists will correct your spine. This may include the application of sudden but controlled force to joints and bones. Call their attention if you feel pain, only minor discomfort should be felt during the treatment procedure. Treatments are usually broken in several sessions. You may have to undergo a series of treatments to fully get the benefits of chiropractic treatment.