Chiropractors in Australia are a nationally registered and a regulated health care profession. Chiropractic is a drug and surgery free modality of treatment concerned with the diagnosis, management and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system; this includes the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. It is based on the teachings of Galen and Hippocrates and the premise that the body can respond appropriately to its environment provided that the nervous system is free of interference. This was further developed by Palmer which lead to a focus on the spinal column and its functioning. The nervous system controls every system in your body; your circulation, your breathing, digestion, hormones etc and most importantly it communicates every cell in every system to another.

In summary, chiropractors work on the detection and correction of aberrant spinal function and its subsequent effect on how the nervous system controls and coordinates the body in response to its environment. Chiropractors work with the joints and soft tissues of the spine that protect the communication pathways of the spinal cord and nerve roots. Chiropractors use gentle hands-on techniques (adjustments and mobilisations) and education to promote wellness.

In Australia, chiropractors are educated in the University sector at an under-graduate and post-graduate level and there is a growing research and evidence base into the efficacy of care. As with other healthcare professions, there are internationally and nationally recognised standards of qualification to enable practice in Australia and this is part of the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme.

Chiropractors have been working with children for over 150 years. The typical chiropractic care of infants and young children involves the use of low-force low-amplitude techniques (gentle pressure) and differs greatly from the techniques used on the adult population. Chiropractors are educated to modify spinal manual therapy to suit the age and presenting condition of a patient.

Published studies and reports through the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme show that chiropractic is a low risk health modality.

The child's spine is very adaptable, its immaturity and dynamic relationship between growth and function makes childhood the most vulnerable time for change. In children spinal stress can manifest as many seemingly unrelated symptoms. A child has many physical stresses to deal with during their growing years, and problems in children's spines can occur at almost any point in their development and growth.