Chiropractic is a health care profession that focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system, and the effects of these disorders on general health. Chiropractic care is used most often to treat neuromusculoskeletal complaints, including but not limited to back pain, neck pain, pain in the joints of the arms or legs, headaches, repetitive strain injuries, migraine, lumbago, sciatica and neuralgia.

Doctors of Chiropractic, often referred to as Chiropractors, are primary health care professionals practicing a drug-free, hands-on approach to health care that includes patient examination, diagnosis, treatment and referrals. Chiropractors have broad diagnostic skills and are also trained to recommend therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises, as well as to provide nutritional, dietary and lifestyle counselling.

The most common therapeutic procedure performed by a Doctor of Chiropractic is known as an "adjustment" or "manipulation". The purpose of an adjustment is to restore neurological function to the surrounding tissues improving joint mobility. This is done by applying a controlled and specific force to a joint to the tissue state surrounding it. Some causes for joint dysfunction include tissue injury caused by a single traumatic event, such as improper lifting, falls, and accidents or through repetitive stresses including work, sleep, sitting and standing postures.

Injured tissues undergo physical and chemical changes that can cause inflammation, pain, and diminished function for the sufferer. Manipulation of the affected joint and tissues seeks to restores mobility allowing proper muscle function reducing pain and muscle tightness.

A Chiropractic adjustment rarely causes discomfort. However, patients may sometimes experience mild soreness or aching following treatment (as with some forms of exercise) that usually resolves within 12 to 48 hours.
In many cases, such as lower back pain, Chiropractic care may be the primary method of treatment. When other medical conditions exist, Chiropractic care may complement or support medical treatment by relieving the musculoskeletal aspects associated with the condition.

Doctors of Chiropractic may assess patients through clinical examination, laboratory testing, diagnostic imaging and other diagnostic interventions to determine when Chiropractic treatment is appropriate or when it is not appropriate. Chiropractors will readily refer patients to the appropriate health care provider when Chiropractic care is not suitable for the patients condition, or the condition warrants co-management in conjunction with other members of the health care team.