What Is Modern Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is becoming a more diverse field, and those at the forefront of the profession utilize modern examination and treatment methods and address neuromusculoskeletal (NMS) conditions. This means that the modern doctor of chiropractic evaluates and treats a variety of conditions of that affect our nerves, muscles and joints, e.g. athletic injuries, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, muscle soreness, etc. While being NMS specialists, modern DC?s also have a flare for natural and holistic approaches to health. This new paradigm of chiropractic is no longer an alternative profession, but is rather mainstream. Dr. Brigham practices in this way. He works with you and your other doctors for your benefit, with goals that include empowering you to help yourself manage your own health. This may include exercises, nutritional recommendations, and modifications of activities of daily living.

What Is Joint Manipulation?
When we exercise, we move our bones only as far as our muscles allow. If we stretch, we move the bones a little further than the muscles will. Joint manipulation takes a joint that is stuck or not functioning, and unlocks it, allowing for better motion. It moves the joint just beyond the stretch, but still within the normal range of movement. It is quite safe and very effective for a variety of conditions. Sports chiropractors perform a lot of joint manipulation to the extremity joints as well as the spine. While most people receive joint manipulation for relief of neck and back pain, it is also part of an effective treatment approach for extremity problems, e.g. ankle sprains, stiff shoulders, or tennis elbow.

What Is Soft Tissue Treatment?
Soft tissue is anything that is not bone. However, it is typically used to reference muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Soft tissue treatment can be anything from massage to therapeutic ultrasound. There are many hands-on soft tissue methods. Some include acupressure-type maneuvers deep into muscles, release maneuvers of moving the limb while sliding/massaging/stripping through the muscles, stretching, or working out scar tissue/adhesions. Dr. Bridgham performs a variety of these methods.

The combination of soft tissue treatment, joint manipulation, and exercise comprises most of what is done in the modern chiropractic office. Additional advice is offered regarding nutrition and self help strategies.