Yes, chiropractors can help with sciatica, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.

Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, often due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or muscle tension (like piriformis syndrome). Chiropractors use non-invasive techniques to reduce pressure on the nerve, improve spinal alignment, and restore mobility.

Common chiropractic treatments for sciatica include:

• Spinal adjustments to relieve nerve pressure

• Soft tissue therapy for tight muscles and inflammation

• Stretching and exercise programs to improve posture and prevent recurrence

• Postural and lifestyle advice to support long-term recovery

Yes, chiropractors can help manage scoliosis, but their role is typically supportive rather than corrective—especially in adults or in more severe cases.

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally to the side. While chiropractic care won’t reverse the curvature, it can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support overall spinal function.

How chiropractors may help with scoliosis:

• Gentle spinal adjustments to reduce tension and improve alignment

• Soft tissue therapy to ease muscle imbalances and discomfort

• Postural exercises to strengthen supporting muscles

• Pain management strategies to improve quality of life

Yes, chiropractors can help with certain types of knee pain, especially when it’s related to joint alignment, muscle imbalances, or referred pain from the hips, pelvis, or lower back.

While chiropractors don’t replace orthopedic specialists for serious structural damage (like a torn ACL), they can be very effective in reducing inflammation, improving joint mechanics, and supporting mobility.

How chiropractors help with knee pain:

• Joint adjustments to the knee, hip, or spine to improve movement patterns

• Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension and inflammation

• Rehabilitative exercises to strengthen supportive muscles

• Postural and gait assessments to identify and correct contributing issues

Common conditions chiropractors treat:

• Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee)

• Osteoarthritis-related knee pain

• Meniscus irritation (non-surgical cases)

• Referred pain from the lower back or hips

Yes, chiropractors can help with certain types of vertigo, particularly when it’s caused by issues in the neck or inner ear—like cervicogenic vertigo or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

How chiropractors may help with vertigo:

• Spinal adjustments to the neck (cervical spine) to relieve nerve interference and improve balance

• Canalith repositioning maneuvers (like the Epley maneuver) to treat BPPV by realigning calcium crystals in the inner ear

• Balance and vestibular exercises to support the body’s equilibrium

• Soft tissue work to reduce tension in the neck that may contribute to dizziness

Chiropractors are most effective when vertigo is related to:

• Neck injuries or tension (whiplash, poor posture, etc.)

• Inner ear disturbances like BPPV

• Joint misalignments affecting balance signals

Yes, chiropractors can help with pinched nerves, especially when the cause is related to spinal misalignment, disc issues, or muscle tension putting pressure on nearby nerves.

A "pinched nerve" (also called nerve impingement or compression) often results in pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness, commonly in the neck, back, arms, or legs. Chiropractic care offers non-invasive, drug-free relief by addressing the root cause of the compression.

How chiropractors help with pinched nerves:

• Spinal adjustments to realign vertebrae and relieve nerve pressure

• Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension around the nerve

• Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve posture and support long-term healing

• Lifestyle and ergonomic advice to prevent future flare-ups

Common conditions involving pinched nerves:

• Herniated or bulging discs

• Sciatica (compressed sciatic nerve)

• Cervical radiculopathy (nerve compression in the neck)

• Thoracic outlet syndrome

In Canada, chiropractors are regulated healthcare professionals, but they are not medical doctors (MDs).

Here’s what that means:

• Chiropractors in Canada earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree after completing a minimum of 7–8 years of post-secondary education, including a specialized 4-year chiropractic program.

• They are licensed and regulated by provincial chiropractic colleges (e.g., Alberta College and Association of Chiropractors).

• Chiropractors are considered primary contact practitioners, meaning you do not need a referral to see one.

• They are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal conditions, with a strong emphasis on spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system health.

Key differences from MDs:

• Chiropractors do not prescribe medication or perform surgery.

• Their approach is non-invasive and drug-free, often focusing on manual therapies, exercise, and lifestyle advice.

So while they hold the title “Doctor” based on their degree, they are not medical doctors, but are highly trained specialists in musculoskeletal care.

Chiropractors treat back pain using non-invasive, hands-on techniques aimed at relieving pressure, improving spinal function, and promoting natural healing.

Common chiropractic treatments for back pain include:

1. Spinal Adjustments (Manipulation)

• Realigns vertebrae to reduce nerve irritation and restore joint mobility

• Often provides immediate relief and improves range of motion

2. Soft Tissue Therapy

• Massage, trigger point release, or instrument-assisted techniques to reduce muscle tension and inflammation

3. Stretching & Strengthening Exercises

• Customized exercises to support posture, core stability, and long-term recovery

4. Postural and Ergonomic Advice

• Guidance on sitting, sleeping, and working positions to prevent recurring back pain

5. Lifestyle & Activity Modifications

• Education on movement patterns, daily habits, and injury prevention

Chiropractic care is especially effective for:

• Mechanical lower back pain

• Muscle strains and spasms

• Joint dysfunction

• Disc-related irritation (non-severe herniations)

• Chronic postural stress

Yes, you can see a chiropractor while pregnant, and many women find chiropractic care helpful for managing the physical changes and discomforts of pregnancy.

Chiropractic care during pregnancy can help:

• Relieve lower back pain, hip pain, and pelvic discomfort

• Improve posture and alignment as your body adapts to carrying extra weight

• Support pelvic balance, which may contribute to smoother labor and delivery

• Reduce tension and stress through gentle, safe manual techniques

Chiropractors trained in prenatal care:

• Use gentle, pregnancy-safe techniques

• Avoid pressure on the abdomen

• May use specialized pregnancy pillows or tables

• Often work in coordination with obstetric care providers

Common issues treated:

• Sciatica or nerve pain

• Round ligament pain

• Postural strain

• Pubic symphysis pain (pelvic instability)

Always ensure your chiropractor is experienced in prenatal care, and speak with your OB or midwife if you have a high-risk pregnancy or medical concerns.

No, chiropractors are not physiotherapists—they are two distinct healthcare professions, though they sometimes treat similar conditions like back pain, joint problems, or sports injuries.

Key differences:

Chiropractors

• Hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree

• Focus on spinal health, joint alignment, and nervous system function

• Use manual adjustments, spinal manipulation, and lifestyle advice

• Often emphasize non-invasive, drug-free care centered on spinal mechanics

Physiotherapists (Physical Therapists)

• Hold a Master’s or Doctorate in Physiotherapy

• Focus on rehabilitation, movement science, and functional recovery

• Use a wide range of techniques including manual therapy, exercise therapy, electrotherapy, and education

• Often work post-injury or post-surgery to restore strength and mobility

Can they work together?

Yes. Many clinics offer integrated care, where chiropractors and physiotherapists collaborate to provide the most effective treatment plan for a patient.