Relationship Between Chiropractic and Acupuncture Treatments

Similar to how the dental profession is the only profession which is licensed to diagnose issues with the teeth and gums, the chiropractic profession is the only profession licensed to treat and diagnose “vertebral subluxation” through spinal manipulative therapy or chiropractic adjustment. This does not mean that other licensed practitioners such as acupuncturists cannot directly treat the spine – it just means they do not use the treatment of the vertebral subluxation. As they both treat similar areas of the body, both chiropractics and acupuncture have similarities as well as some unique attributes that make them different. Below are some of the key differences and how the two types of treatments can work together.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic doctors use the primary method of reducing vertebral subluxation by manually moving the vertebrae through low-amplitude, high-speed thrusts. This typically produces an audible release, which most people call a “pop” or “crack”. The adjustment is not typically painful, but some people do not like the noise it produces.

Acupuncture

In acupuncture, manipulation of the spinal segments is substituted with stimulation of the acupuncture points directly at the vertebral level. It works by stimulating certain areas of the body by using thin, small needles which are intended to revitalize the natural energy of the body.  A skilled acupuncturing can work to relieve aches and pain throughout the body, and acupuncture has also shown to improve immunity and treat conditions such as fibromyalgia. Similar to chiropractic adjustment, acupuncture is typically not painful  - but some people may be concerned by the idea of having needles placed into their skin.

Most health care advocates are starting to agree that pain management and health care should be a “team based” approach, which may include general medicine, chiropractics, acupuncture, as well as additional therapies such as massage.