Practically speaking, chiropractors are primarily concerned with locating and treating spine and extremity joint dysfunctions.

Joint dysfunction is a complex of functional and/or structural and/or pathological articular (joint) changes that compromise neural integrity and may influence organ system function and general health.

Using a number of unique and highly refined skills, the chiropractor checks the patient's spine and/or extremities for any misalignments, fixations or other abnormalities (also known as subluxations or joint dysfunctions). If subluxations or other abnormalities are detected, the chiropractor will generally apply a gentle force in a corrective manner to the affected spinal area.

Chiropractors use many specialized techniques to identify and treat these spinal and extremity abnormalities to optimize overall health. In addition to spinal adjustive techniques, soft tissue techniques such as massage, dietary and nutritional counseling, physical therapies, and lifestyle modification programs are commonly employed.