Chiropractic is a branch of healthcare that focuses on the relationship between the body's structure - mainly the spine - and its function.

In 1997, Americans made an estimated 192 million visits a year to chiropractors. More than 88 million of those were to treat back or neck pain. Conditions commonly treated by chiropractors include headaches, sports injuries and repetitive strains. Patients also seek treatment of pain associated with other conditions, such as arthritis.

Doctors of chiropractic receive both classroom and clinical training in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, biochemistry, pathology, nutrition, public health and other subjects. Chiropractic students spend four years learning how to adjust and manipulate the spine, joints, bones, muscles and connective tissues (such as the ligaments and tendons attached to bones and muscles). Following training, chiropractors must be licensed by the state to practice. Chiropractic does not use drugs or surgery in treatment.

Cedars-Sinai Institute for Spinal Disorders provides access to chiropractic care.

If you are seeing a chiropractor or plan to do so, be sure to inform your doctor or surgeon so that all members of your healthcare team are informed and working together.