Chiropractor

/ˌkaɪrəˈpræktər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, primarily through manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine.
After months of back pain, Sarah decided to visit a chiropractor for relief.
A practitioner of chiropractic, a system of alternative medicine that emphasizes the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
The chiropractor recommended a series of adjustments to help with his chronic neck pain.
An individual trained and licensed to perform chiropractic care.
She found an experienced chiropractor who was highly recommended by her friends.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'cheir' meaning 'hand' and 'praktos' meaning 'done'; referring to the manual treatment methods used.

Common Phrases and Expressions

adjustment
A treatment process used by chiropractors to correct spinal alignment.
spinal manipulation
A technique involving controlled force applied to a joint in the spine.
chiropractic care
Health care treatment provided by chiropractors.

Related Words

spine
The series of vertebrae forming the backbone.
chiropractic
The branch of dentistry concerned with the diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal disorders.

Slang Meanings

Bone cracker
He goes to the bone cracker whenever his back acts up.
Back whisperer
I like to call my chiropractor the back whisperer because of how gently he handles the adjustments.