Is a chiropractor doctor a specialist? What do they specialize in when they see their patients?

Question

Do u have to get a referal to see them, also can they perform x-rays too and diagnose you if its necessary. Please explain.

Answer 1

Chiropractic (from Greek cheira and praktikos meaning "manipulate by hand") is a health care profession whose purpose is to diagnose and treat mechanical disorders of the spine and musculoskeletal system with the intention of affecting the nervous system and improving health. It is based on the premise that a spinal joint dysfunction can interfere with the nervous system and result in many different conditions of diminished health. While some chiropractors use the term vertebral subluxation to describe what they treat, others have dropped this concept and concentrate mostly on the musculoskeletal components of spinal injury and rehabilitation of the spine. In contrast, the term subluxation as used in conventional medicine is usually associated with specific conditions which are a direct consequence of injury to joints or associated nerves.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiropractic
You do not have to have a referral to see a chiropractor, but, if you have insurance, you might want to be sure your insurance covers chiropractic care...some don't. Chiropractors do xrays and may diagnosis and develop plans of care according to xrays.

Answer 2

You don't need a referral just call one. Some do perform x-rays and do some diagnosing. They bill for physical therapy and your insurance may cover the cost. They specialize in maintaining the bones of your body aligned in the best possible way for performance. Some are more specialized than others so shop around and ask friends who is good in your area. I used to go for lower back pain and loved it.

Answer 3

Yes they are doctors