The first generation of chiropractors focused mainly on the back and spine. But this isn’t your father’s – or grandfather’s – practice any longer.

In some states, such as Michigan, chiropractors are limited in scope. Michigan’s chiropractic license confines the practice to analysis and work on the spine.

But Illinois’ licensing allows chiropractors to work as primary care physicians, limited only by their inability to perform surgery and prescribe medications. And a new brand of chiropractors has appeared since.

According to data from the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards, Illinois had 2,925 actively licensed chiropractors in 2000, or one for every 4,246 citizens of the state.

In 2007, that number spiked to 4,167. Last year, it fell slightly to 3,848 – or one for every 3,227 residents. In McHenry County, 80 active chiropractors are registered by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

Two new clinics to the area epitomize the changing face of the industry – one that provides a broader range of care without relying on prescription medication.

Melissa Luhrs opened Back to Action Chiropractic in Crystal Lake in February. A graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic in Florida who grew up in Madison, Wis., Luhrs works in the Lewis Chiropractic Center alongside Bradley Lewis, who has been in the business more than 25 years.

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