A chiropractor is a registered healthcare practitioner who assesses, diagnoses and manages problems of the muscles, joints, spine and related nerves. Care usually combines hands-on treatment with exercise and advice. Common reasons people visit include lower back pain, neck pain, some headaches and joint or sports-related pain.
What is chiropractic?
The Chiropractic Association of South Africa (CASA) describes chiropractic as a health profession focused on diagnosing, treating and preventing mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and the effects of those disorders on the nervous system and general health.
In practical terms, a chiropractor looks at how your body moves, what brings your symptoms on, and whether your symptoms fit a problem they can help with. If they don’t, the chiropractor should refer you to another health professional.
How are chiropractors trained and regulated in South Africa?
In South Africa, chiropractors complete a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Chiropractic followed by a Master’s degree, and an internship is required before registration. These programmes are offered at the University of Johannesburg and the Durban University of Technology.
Chiropractors must be registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA), the statutory body for the profession. CASA is the professional association, and its Find a Chiropractor directory lists its members.
What problems do chiropractors commonly see?
Chiropractors mainly see neuromusculoskeletal conditions, meaning problems involving muscles, joints, ligaments and nerves. These include:
- Lower back pain and neck pain
- Headaches that may be linked to the neck
- Shoulder, hip, knee and other joint pain
- Sports and activity-related injuries
- Back and pelvic pain during pregnancy
The strength of the research differs from one condition to another, so a good practitioner will explain what is known about your options. CASA has more information on conditions and treatment.
What treatments might a chiropractor use?
Treatment depends on your assessment, your preferences and any health conditions you have. It may include:
- Manual adjustments: quick, controlled movements applied to a joint. Our guide to chiropractic adjustments explains how they work and what the risks are.
- Soft tissue therapy: hands-on work on muscles and related tissues.
- Rehabilitation exercises: movements to help you build strength and return to your normal activities. See our guide to soft tissue therapy and rehab exercises.
- Advice: information about your condition, activity levels and day-to-day habits.
You can read more about the approach used at this practice on our chiropractic care page.
What happens at a first visit?
A first visit usually starts with questions about your symptoms, medical history, medication, work and activity. A physical examination follows, which may include movement, muscle strength, reflex and sensation tests.
The chiropractor should then explain what they think is going on, your treatment options, the benefits, risks and costs of each option, and what could happen if you choose not to have treatment. South Africa’s AHPCSA Code of Ethics requires informed consent before treatment and recognises your right to refuse treatment or seek a second opinion.
When should you see a doctor or go to an emergency unit instead?
Most back and neck pain isn’t caused by a serious problem, but some symptoms need prompt medical attention. Seek urgent care if you have pain along with any of these:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around your genitals or back passage
- New weakness, numbness or difficulty walking
- A sudden, severe headache, or a fever with a stiff neck
- Chest pain, or symptoms that began after a major accident or fall
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a referral to see a chiropractor?
You can generally book directly with a chiropractor in South Africa. If you plan to claim from a medical aid, check your plan’s rules and benefits first.
Is a chiropractor a doctor?
Chiropractors use the title “Dr” in South Africa, but they aren’t medical doctors. They are registered with the AHPCSA and focus on the musculoskeletal system, and they should refer you to a medical doctor when your symptoms need medical care.
Will treatment always involve cracking joints?
No. Manual adjustments are one option among several, and you can ask about other approaches or decline any part of a treatment plan.
If you’d like to know more, read our frequently asked questions, learn about your chiropractor, or get in touch.
This article is general information and doesn’t replace an individual assessment by a registered healthcare practitioner.