Browse 30 essential chiropractor terms and definitions used by professionals in Hendersonville.
Term Index
Open any term below for a dedicated definition page.
Active Release Technique is a patented, hands-on soft-tissue treatment that combines precise pressure with specific patient movements to break up painful scar tissue and adhesions in muscles, tendons, ligaments, And nerves. Developed by chiropractor P. Michael Leahy, it aims to restore smooth, pain-free motion and improve function in injured or overused tissues.
Acute Pain is sudden, sharp discomfort that lasts less than three to six months and acts as a warning signal from the body. Acute Pain typically results from injury, surgery, Or illness and disappears once the underlying cause heals. Unlike chronic pain, it has a clear start and end point.
CBP is Chiropractic BioPhysics, a specialized chiropractic technique that combines spinal adjustments, postural exercises, And spinal traction to correct abnormal spinal alignment and improve overall posture. CBP focuses on measurable changes in spinal structure and function, often using X-rays and precise calculations to guide treatment plans.
Chiropractic Adjustment is a hands-on procedure where a licensed chiropractor applies controlled force to a specific joint in the spine or other body part. The goal is to improve alignment, reduce nerve irritation, And restore normal motion. Adjustments are commonly used to relieve back pain, neck pain, headaches.
Chiropractic BioPhysics is a specialized branch of chiropractic care that combines biology, physiology, physics, geometry, And anatomy to identify and correct spinal misalignments. It uses precise measurements, customized treatment plans, And mirror-image adjustments to restore proper spinal alignment and improve overall health.
Chiropractic Manipulation is a hands-on treatment method used by chiropractors to improve joint movement and reduce pain. It involves applying controlled force to specific areas of the spine or other joints to restore proper function, alleviate discomfort.
Chronic Pain is persistent discomfort lasting longer than three months, even after an injury or illness has healed. Chronic Pain often stems from nerve damage, inflammation, Or musculoskeletal conditions and can affect daily activities, mood, And sleep. Unlike short-term pain, it requires ongoing management rather than a one-time cure.
Decompression Therapy is a non-surgical, traction-based treatment designed to relieve pressure on spinal discs and nerves. Decompression Therapy uses controlled mechanical force to gently stretch the spine, creating negative pressure within the discs. This process helps retract herniated or bulging disc material, promotes nutrient-rich fluid flow, And reduces pain associated with conditions like sciatica, herniated discs, And spinal stenosis.
Disc herniation is a spinal condition where the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tougher outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, Or weakness in the back, arms, Or legs. Disc herniation often occurs in the lower back or neck and is commonly linked to aging, injury, Or improper lifting.
Flexion-Distraction is a gentle, non-surgical chiropractic technique designed to relieve back, neck, And leg pain by decompressing spinal discs and joints. Flexion-Distraction uses a specialized table to stretch and flex the spine in a controlled, rhythmic motion, reducing pressure on nerves and improving spinal mobility without forceful adjustments.
Graston Technique is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization used by healthcare providers to break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions in muscles, tendons, And ligaments. Graston Technique involves specialized stainless-steel tools to detect and treat areas of soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation, helping restore range of motion and reduce pain.
Herniated Disc is a spinal condition where the soft inner gel of a spinal disc leaks through a tear in its tough outer layer. This leakage can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, Or weakness in the back, arms, Or legs. Herniated discs often occur in the lower back or neck and may result from injury, aging, Or repetitive stress.
Intersegmental Traction is a chiropractic therapy that gently stretches and mobilizes the spine using a specialized table with rolling rollers. These rollers move along the spine, applying mild pressure to each vertebra, improving joint mobility, reducing stiffness.
Ligament Sprain is an injury to a ligament, the tough band of tissue connecting bones at joints. Ligament sprains occur when a joint is forced beyond its normal range, stretching or tearing the ligament fibers. Common in ankles, knees, And wrists, sprains cause pain, swelling.
Low Back Pain is discomfort or pain located in the lower part of the spine, between the bottom of the rib cage and the top of the legs. Low Back Pain can be sharp, dull, constant, Or intermittent and may radiate to the buttocks or legs. It often results from muscle strain, ligament sprain, disc injury, Or joint irritation, And can affect daily activities like sitting, standing, Or walking.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a non-invasive medical test that uses a strong magnetic field, radio waves, And a computer to produce detailed pictures of the body’s internal structures, especially soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, And spinal discs. Unlike X-rays, MRI does not use radiation, making it safer for repeated use. It helps doctors diagnose injuries, diseases, And abnormalities with high accuracy.
Muscle Strain is an injury that occurs when muscle fibers stretch too far or tear due to overuse, sudden force, Or improper movement. Muscle Strain often causes pain, swelling, And limited movement in the affected area. It commonly affects muscles in the back, neck, shoulders, And legs, especially during physical activity or heavy lifting.
Myofascial Release is a hands-on therapy that gently stretches and loosens the fascia, the thin layer of connective tissue surrounding muscles, bones, And organs. This technique helps reduce pain, improve movement, And restore function by releasing tight or restricted areas caused by injury, stress, Or poor posture. It's often used alongside chiropractic care to enhance recovery and flexibility.
Neck Strain is a common injury involving overstretched or torn muscles and tendons in the neck, often caused by sudden movements, poor posture, Or prolonged stress. It leads to pain, stiffness, And reduced range of motion, typically improving with rest, ice, And gentle stretching. While usually not serious, severe or persistent symptoms may require medical evaluation.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs are medications commonly used to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, And lower fever. They work by blocking certain enzymes in the body that cause swelling and pain. Unlike steroids, these drugs don't contain corticosteroids, making them safer for short-term use in managing conditions like arthritis, sprains.
NSAIDs are a group of medications used to reduce pain, lower fever, And decrease inflammation. The name stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Common NSAIDs include ibuprofen, aspirin, And naproxen. These drugs work by blocking certain enzymes in the body that cause swelling and discomfort. NSAIDs are widely available over the counter and by prescription.
Physical Rehabilitation is a medically supervised process that helps individuals regain movement, strength, And function after injury, surgery, Or illness. Physical Rehabilitation uses exercises, stretches, manual therapy, And education to reduce pain, restore mobility, And prevent future problems. It's tailored to each person’s condition and goals, often involving a team of healthcare providers.
Pinched Nerve is a condition where surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, Or tendons, press too tightly against a nerve. This pressure disrupts the nerve’s function, causing pain, tingling, numbness, Or weakness in the affected area. Pinched nerves often occur in the spine, wrists, Or elbows and can result from injury, poor posture, Or repetitive motions.
Posture Correction is the process of identifying and improving misaligned body positions that strain muscles, joints, And ligaments. It involves exercises, ergonomic adjustments, And sometimes chiropractic care to restore natural spinal curves, reduce pain.
Soft Tissue Therapy is a hands-on treatment that targets muscles, tendons, ligaments, And fascia to reduce pain, improve mobility, And speed recovery from injuries. Soft Tissue Therapy techniques include massage, stretching, And pressure to break up scar tissue, ease tension.
Spinal Adjustment is a manual therapy technique used by chiropractors to apply controlled force to specific joints in the spine. The goal is to improve spinal motion, reduce nerve irritation, And restore proper alignment, which may help relieve pain and improve function. Spinal Adjustments are often part of a broader treatment plan for back, neck, Or joint issues.
Spinal Decompression is a non-surgical treatment designed to relieve pressure on the spine and spinal nerves. It involves gently stretching the spine using a motorized table or similar device to create negative pressure within spinal discs, promoting the retraction of herniated or bulging discs and improving nutrient flow to affected areas.
Spinal Stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through it. This condition most commonly occurs in the lower back and neck and often develops gradually due to aging, arthritis, Or wear-and-tear changes in the spine. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, muscle weakness, And difficulty walking or standing for long periods.
Trigger Point Therapy is a manual treatment technique that targets tight knots in muscles, called trigger points, which cause pain and restrict movement. Therapists apply focused pressure to these points to release tension, improve blood flow, And relieve referred pain in other areas of the body. This therapy is often used to treat muscle stiffness, headaches.
Workers Compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. Workers Compensation ensures workers receive prompt care without needing to prove employer fault. While employers gain protection from most lawsuits related to workplace injuries.
