Is Chiropractic Care Considered Holistic Medicine?
AZ Marketing Masters • May 28, 2025
Is Chiropractic Care Considered Holistic Medicine?
In recent years, more people are turning to natural, whole-body approaches to health and healing. This growing interest in holistic medicine has many patients asking an important question: Is chiropractic care considered holistic medicine?
The short answer is yes—chiropractic care is very much a form of holistic medicine. Chiropractors view the body as an interconnected system, where symptoms are often signs of deeper imbalances. Rather than masking pain with medication or focusing on isolated symptoms, chiropractic care aims to restore the body’s natural alignment and function, promoting healing from the inside out.
At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we take pride in providing care that treats the whole person—not just the symptoms. Let’s explore what makes chiropractic care holistic, how it fits into the broader world of natural medicine, and why so many people find long-term wellness through this approach.
What Does "Holistic" Mean?
To understand why chiropractic care is considered holistic, it’s helpful to define the term. Holistic medicine refers to an approach to health that considers the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Holistic practitioners aim to treat the root causes of issues rather than just the symptoms. They often emphasize lifestyle, nutrition, emotional well-being, and the body’s natural ability to heal.
Instead of asking “What pill can I take for this pain?” a holistic practitioner might ask, “Why is this pain happening in the first place, and what lifestyle, movement, or alignment factors are contributing to it?”
This is exactly how chiropractic care works.
Chiropractic Care Focuses on Root Causes
Chiropractors focus primarily on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems—especially the spine, which is central to many of the body’s functions. The spine houses the spinal cord, which serves as the main highway for communication between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spine is misaligned, it can put pressure on nerves, interfere with function, and cause pain or other issues.
A holistic chiropractor doesn’t just aim to relieve pain. They ask:
- What’s causing this misalignment?
- How is it affecting the rest of the body?
- What can be done to restore balance naturally?
By correcting these structural imbalances, chiropractors help support the body’s natural healing processes—without surgery or medications.
It's Not Just About the Spine
While spinal adjustments are a core part of chiropractic care, they are only one part of a holistic chiropractic treatment plan.
At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we also consider:
Posture and movement patterns: Poor posture or repetitive stress can lead to chronic issues. We help identify and correct those patterns.
Nutrition and lifestyle: Inflammation, weight gain, and energy levels can all be tied to diet and habits. A holistic approach includes guidance on how to support your health from the inside out.
Exercise and stretching: Custom movement programs can help strengthen weak muscles and improve flexibility, reducing the risk of future injuries.
Stress management:
Chronic stress affects the nervous system and can exacerbate pain and tension. Holistic care includes attention to mental and emotional well-being.
This well-rounded approach is what makes chiropractic care so effective—not only for back and neck pain, but for headaches, joint issues, fatigue, sleep problems, and even digestive complaints.
Chiropractic Care Supports the Body’s Natural Healing
One of the cornerstones of holistic medicine is the belief that the body is designed to heal itself when given the right conditions. Chiropractic care supports this belief by:
Improving nervous system function: When nerves are free from interference, the brain and body can communicate more efficiently, improving healing.
Enhancing circulation: Spinal adjustments and soft tissue therapies help increase blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues that need repair.
Reducing inflammation: Misalignments and tension can cause inflammation. By restoring alignment, chiropractic care helps reduce this response.
Balancing the musculoskeletal system: When muscles and joints work in harmony, pain decreases, movement improves, and the body can function more efficiently.
No medications. No invasive procedures. Just skilled, evidence-based hands-on care that helps the body do what it’s meant to do: heal.
Personalized Treatment for the Whole Person
One size never fits all—especially when it comes to health. At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific needs, history, goals, and lifestyle. This individual approach is another hallmark of holistic care.
Whether you’re an athlete recovering from injury, a desk worker with chronic neck pain, or a parent dealing with stress and tension, we take the time to understand your whole picture before making any recommendations.
By looking at the whole person rather than just a list of symptoms, we’re often able to help patients who haven’t found relief elsewhere.
Chiropractic and Other Holistic Therapies
Chiropractic care often works hand-in-hand with other holistic therapies, including:
Massage therapy
to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation
Acupuncture to balance energy and reduce pain
Dry needling
to release trigger points and relieve chronic pain
Functional nutrition to reduce inflammation and promote healing
Physical therapy or movement rehab to improve mobility and build strength
At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we frequently collaborate with other holistic and medical professionals to ensure you get well-rounded support for your healing journey.
The Evidence Backs It Up
Some people assume holistic care is “alternative” or “unscientific,” but chiropractic care is supported by a growing body of evidence. Numerous studies have shown that spinal manipulation and other chiropractic techniques can effectively reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life.
For example:
A 2017 review published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that spinal manipulation can reduce acute lower back pain.
The American College of Physicians recommends spinal manipulation as a first-line treatment for back pain—before considering medications.
Patients receiving chiropractic care report higher satisfaction rates and lower use of pain medications compared to those receiving conventional care alone.
Holistic doesn’t mean unscientific—it means treating the whole person, based on both science and experience.
Final Thoughts
So, is chiropractic care considered holistic medicine?
Absolutely. Chiropractic care is one of the most widely practiced and trusted forms of holistic healthcare. It’s centered on restoring natural balance, treating root causes, and helping people feel better without drugs or surgery.
If you’re looking for a natural, effective way to support your body’s healing and improve your overall well-being, chiropractic care is a great place to start.
At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we’re here to help you move better, feel better, and live healthier—naturally. Schedule a consultation today and experience the power of holistic chiropractic care for yourself.
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