Most visits to chiropractors and chiropractic physicians are for pain and musculoskeletal complaints. More than half of the visits are for low back and related complaints. There are numerous chiropractic and spinal manipulative adjusting techniques. Practitioners may vary in their approaches and the techniques that they use.

There are a number of traditional and scientific theories about the mechanism of action and potential health benefits of chiropractic and spinal manipulative therapy. However, some of the underlying effects of these therapies on the body are largely unknown. The chiropractic approach is not limited to spinal manipulation.

Chiropractors are well trained in manipulation of the spine and extremities. The majority of chiropractors have had extensive education and training in wellness care including clinical nutrition and physical rehabilitation. Chiropractic physicians also may have post-doctorate training and residencies for specialty certification, such as radiology, neurology, pediatrics, clinical nutrition, rehabilitation and orthopedics.