What is chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a medical profession that engages the diagnoses, treatment and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the effects of this upon the functioning of the nervous system and the overall health. The emphasis is on manual treatment, including spinal manipulation and adjustments.
The theories and treatment methods of chiropractic are based on valid and accepted medical knowledge and literature. Starting point in treatment is always the natural ability of the body to heal itself.
A chiropractor takes a detailed look at the patient’s physical and psychological condition and history. This comprehensive diagnosis enables a tailor-made solution that quickly solves the problem. Manual treatment allows muscles to relax and joints to move more smoothly. The combination of treatment, advice and collaboration with other healthcare providers is aimed at offering a solution in which surgery or medication can be prevented as much as possible.
Which complaints does a chiropractor treat?
The chiropractor treats a broad range of complaints, varying from acute back and neck complaints, to chronic conditions. Furthermore he will do preventive treatments in order to prevent a relapse or worsening of complaints. Chiropractic also helps athletes to perform better. The chiropractor tailors the treatment to the specific goal, complaint or needs of the patient in question.
Professional associations
The Dutch Chiropractic Association ‘NCA’ was founded in 1975 and is the oldest professional association for and by chiropractors in the Netherlands. The NCA is founded to unite qualified chiropractors in the Netherlands in a professional organization. It serves its members as well as the interest of the patients, it watches over the quality of chiropractic care.
Membership of the NCA warrants a high level of education and strict continued educational requirements. The NCA chiropractors practice according to the common values of ‘Evidence Based Practice’. The treatment and diagnosis are based upon recent scientific insights and clinical experience, with care for the individual needs of the patient.
The NCA pursues full recognition of the chiropractic profession in the Netherlands, where the chiropractor will be considered as the expert in the field of conservative care of the spine and the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractic Watergraafsmeer is affiliated with the NCA.
Dutch foundation of Chiropractic ‘SCN’ . In 2001, the Foundation of Chiropractic in the Netherlands was formed. This independent validated registration, strives to offer a high standard and transparent chiropractic care. It oversees and ensures that quality requirements set by the Quality Commission are being respected and carried out. This guarantees the independence/autonomy of the quality control of chiropractors.
Martijn van der Schouw is a registered chiropractor with the SCN and a member of the Review Committee
