Quick Answer

A chiropractor is a healthcare professional trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat conditions involving the spine, joints, muscles, nerves, and movement of the body. While many people associate chiropractic care with back pain, chiropractors also help patients experiencing neck pain, headaches, sciatica, sports injuries, joint pain, and other musculoskeletal conditions by identifying and addressing the underlying cause rather than simply treating symptoms.

What chiropractors do - adjust

The Complete Answer

One of the biggest misconceptions about chiropractic is that it’s simply about relieving back pain. In reality, one of the most important things a chiropractor does is determine why a person is experiencing pain or limited movement in the first place. Many people assume chiropractors “just crack backs,” but that description barely scratches the surface of what modern chiropractic care actually involves.

“Pain is often the last symptom to appear, not the first sign that something has changed.”

At Chandler Chiropractic, every patient begins with a thorough evaluation designed to understand why symptoms developed in the first place. Pain is often the final stage of a problem that has been developing over weeks, months, or even years. Our goal is to identify the underlying mechanical, structural, and lifestyle factors contributing to your condition so we can create a treatment plan that addresses those issues.

A chiropractic examination typically includes a detailed health history, orthopedic testing, neurological evaluation, posture assessment, range-of-motion testing, and, when clinically appropriate, digital X-rays. This comprehensive approach helps us determine whether chiropractic care is the right option for you and whether additional imaging, medical evaluation, or referral to another healthcare provider is necessary.

If chiropractic care is appropriate, care may include spinal adjustments, joint mobilization, soft tissue therapy, rehabilitation exercises, posture education, ergonomic recommendations, and lifestyle guidance. Every plan is personalized because no two patients have the same health history, activity level, or goals.

Many of our patients come to us for common conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, migraines, sciatica, shoulder pain, sports injuries, and stiffness that limits daily activities. Others seek chiropractic care to improve mobility, recover from an injury, support a healthy pregnancy, or help maintain an active lifestyle.

Perhaps most importantly, chiropractic care is about helping your body function as well as possible. When joints move more normally, muscles work more efficiently, and unnecessary stress on the nervous system is reduced, many patients find it easier to move, work, exercise, and enjoy everyday life.

What This Means for You

If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, limited mobility, recurring headaches, or simply feel like your body isn’t functioning the way it should, a comprehensive chiropractic evaluation can help determine what’s contributing to your symptoms and whether chiropractic care is an appropriate part of your care plan.

Our Perspective at Chandler Chiropractic

Safety begins long before an adjustment. That’s why we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Every new patient receives a thorough consultation and examination, and when clinically appropriate, digital X-rays to better understand spinal structure before making recommendations. If we believe chiropractic care isn’t the right fit—or that additional medical evaluation is warranted—we’ll explain why and help guide you toward the most appropriate next step. Our responsibility is to help you make informed decisions about your health, whether that involves chiropractic care or another provider.

Still Have Questions?

Choosing a healthcare provider is an important decision, and it’s natural to have questions—especially if you’ve never visited a chiropractor before.

At Chandler Chiropractic, we believe patients should understand their options before making decisions about their care. If there’s something we haven’t answered here, we’re always happy to help.

Whether you’re experiencing back pain, neck pain, headaches, or simply wondering if chiropractic care may be appropriate for you, our team is here to provide honest answers and personalized recommendations based on your individual needs.

Lasting Results for All Stages of Life.

Reviewed by Dr. Mike Schloemp, DC
July 2026

Dr. Mike Schloemp is the founder of Chandler Chiropractic and has been helping individuals and families throughout Chandler and the East Valley for more than 22 years. His clinical focus includes family chiropractic, sports injuries, headaches, pediatric care, pregnancy care, and personal injury. Dr. Schloemp believes patients deserve honest answers, thorough examinations, and individualized recommendations that help them make informed decisions about their health.

Related Topics – Continued Learning

  • Is Chiropractic Care Safe?
  • What Happens During Your First Chiropractic Visit?
  • Do I Need X-Rays Before Seeing a Chiropractor?
  • How Do I Know If I Should See a Chiropractor?
  • What Education and Training Do Chiropractors Receive?
  • Can Chiropractic Care Be Used Alongside Medical Care?