To say what you mean, and mean what you say, be mindful of these distinctions:

Correct – As in “to make or set right” or to “alter in a way as to bring to an accepted standard.”

By using adjustments to “correct” the spine implies a preconceived outcome that cannot be assured. In fact, if a patient’s aberrant biomechanics and neurological compromise is a response to an active physical, chemical or (more likely) emotional stressor, your chiropractic intervention may be palliative at best. It’s the innate intelligence of their body that determines how your constructive force is used—or ignored.

Reduce – As in “to diminish in size, amount, extent, or number” or “to return displaced or broken parts back into their normal position.”

If the growth plates are gone and patients have longstanding atrophy and scar tissue, a reduction in the subluxation pattern (spinal dysfunction) may be a more realistic goal.

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Bill Esteb has been a chiropractic patient and advocate since 1981. He is the creative director of Patient Media and the co-founder of Perfect Patients. He’s been a regular speaker at chiropractic gatherings since 1985. His 12 books explore the doctor/patient relationship from a patient's point of view. His chiropractic blog, coaching program, patient focus groups and consulting calls have helped hundreds of chiropractors around the world. Since 1999 Monday Morning Motivation has been emailed to over 10,000 subscribers each week.