Chiropractic, which literally means "done by hand," became commonplace as far back as the 1890's. In less than 100 years, the chiropractic profession has risen to become the third largest primary health care profession in the world after medicine and dentistry.

Chiropractors recognise that the body has the inborn ability to heal itself. Chiropractic is that science and art which utilizes the inherent recuperative powers of the body and the relationship between structure – primarily the spine, and function – primarily the nervous system, in the restoration and maintenance of health.

As a natural health science, chiropractors also teach the importance of correct eating, moderate exercise, a healthy mental outlook and the avoidance of smoking, excessive alcohol and drugs.

[This article was written by chiropractors Dr Neil Rowley and Dr Craig Lyons from the Naturally Yours Health Centre in Bryanston, Johannesburg (011-463 3604). They are both family practitioners specialising in sports injuries, paediatrics, headaches, neck and lower back pain]