Chiropractors approach patient care in a manner similar to that used in conventional medicine. They interview the patient, obtain a detailed health history, perform an examination, do tests, and develop a working diagnosis. They then develop a management plan, start treatment, and monitor the patient’s progress. Chiropractors often treat problems related to the musculoskeletal system. The manual treatment methods used by chiropractors range from stretching and sustained pressure to specific joint manipulations, which are usually delivered by hand and involve a quick and gentle thrust. The purpose of the manipulations is to improve joint motion and function. Manipulations are most commonly done on the spine, but other parts of the body may also be treated in this way. Chiropractic care is primarily a hands-on, non-invasive and drugless practice that is safe and effective for the management of musculoskeletal conditions – from small children to elderly adults to pregnant women to Olympic athletes. Musculoskeletal conditions can range in severity from minor sprains and strains to back and neck pain to disc herniations and spinal stenosis. As mentioned, musculoskeletal conditions can be mild or severe but they can also be acute or chronic, common or rare, and localized to one body region or widespread.