COMMON REASONS FOR SEEKING TREATMENT

• Lower back pain
• Sciatica
• Upper back pain
• Neck pain
• Headache
• Migraine
• Dizziness
• Numbness in hands/feet
• A feeling of pressure in the back
• Back fatigue
• Shoulder pain
• Hip pain

Chiropractic is a form of treatment that recognizes the importance of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine, and its effect on the nervous system in maintaining human health and well-being. Dysfunction in the spine often leads to neck and back pain, but can also cause other symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, numbness, chest pain, or breathing difficulties. The goal of chiropractic care is not only to treat acute and chronic symptoms but also to prevent future issues by optimizing the body's functional capacity.

When you come to the clinic for the first time, a thorough interview and examination are conducted to get an overall picture of your health and determine the cause of your symptoms. This is followed by treatment, which is always individually tailored based on the symptoms and findings from the examination. If your issue falls outside the scope of chiropractic care, you will be directed to the appropriate specialist.

All chiropractors practicing in Finland have completed a 5-6 year higher education degree (Master of Chiropractic), which in its preclinical phase is equivalent to the requirements of medical education. Major subjects include anatomy, physiology, pathology, and radiology. In addition to full-time study, exams, and an approved thesis, the degree requires a year-long clinical internship. The education focuses on manual treatments of musculoskeletal issues, providing strong expertise in treating musculoskeletal diseases. A trained chiropractor has the skills to make a differential diagnosis and assess potential contraindications to treatment. (Finnish Chiropractors' Association)

Mechanism of action of manual therapy The mechanism of action of manual therapy is based on both mechanical effects and neurophysiological treatment responses. The neurophysiological mechanism influences the central nervous system via the musculoskeletal system, affecting the spinal cord, brainstem, and brain. Manual therapy of the musculoskeletal system activates sensory nerve pathways, which can produce a therapeutic response by improving movement control and/or the processing of pain signals in the central nervous system.

Improvements in movement control and regulation may manifest as enhanced muscle activation, increased muscle strength and endurance, and improvements in fine motor skills, reflexes, and balance.

Pain reduction occurs primarily according to the gate control theory, where sensory activation of musculoskeletal tissue reduces the intensity and transmission of pain signals in the central nervous system. (DUODECIM)

Research and treatment recommendations Manual therapy, alone or combined with exercises, is recommended based on evidence for:

• the treatment of acute and chronic back pain
• neck and shoulder issues
• neck-related headaches
• neck-related dizziness
• lumbar disc herniation
• sciatica and leg pain.

In both acute and chronic lower back pain, manual therapy is globally recommended in virtually all high-quality treatment guidelines. (DUODECIM)