Medical Terminology

Medical terminology forms the foundation for clear, precise, and professional communication — both within the healthcare team and with patients.

Medical terminology refers to a standardized language used to describe the human body, its conditions, procedures, and treatments. In chiropractic care, this terminology allows practitioners to accurately document spinal assessments, diagnoses, and treatment plans involving the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

For example, understanding terms like subluxation (a partial dislocation or misalignment of a vertebra), cervicalgia (neck pain), or neuropathy (nerve dysfunction) ensures that chiropractors can clearly articulate the patient’s condition and appropriate adjustments.

Chiropractors frequently rely on anatomical terminology when addressing spinal regions such as:

• Cervical spine (neck area)

• Thoracic spine (mid-back)

• Lumbar spine (lower back)

• Sacrum and Coccyx (tailbone)

Additionally, terms like chiropractic adjustment, manipulation, and mobilization are critical when describing chiropractic interventions aimed at restoring vertebral alignment, enhancing nervous system function, and promoting overall wellness.

Mastering medical terminology not only supports effective clinical documentation and interprofessional collaboration but also enhances patient education, empowering individuals to better understand their conditions and the care they receive.

At its core, medical terminology in chiropractic bridges the science of healthcare with the art of healing — ensuring precision, clarity, and excellence in patient care.