By Dr Izzy Henry, Holistic Chiropractor

I recently returned from India (February 2026) and wanted to share my experience in the hope of inspiring others. I first learned about the Hands On India program during my early years at university, and it became a personal goal of mine to return to India as a newly graduated chiropractor and donate my skills to communities that otherwise have little or no access to healthcare.

Hands On India is a not-for-profit charity powered by chiropractors and chiropractic assistants who all volunteer their time and expertise. Since 2004, HOI has returned annually to Siliguri in West Bengal. This year, 23 participants joined the team, not only providing care but also raising funds to support the project.

We were hosted by our Indian partner NGO, Seva Kendra Social Services Centre. Seva Kendra supports government, community, and self-initiated social, education, and health programs for rural communities in the Siliguri subdivision of the Darjeeling district.

Each chiropractor was equipped with a chiropractic table (and, of course, our hands), and each day we travelled in small groups to different rural communities. People lined up to be assessed and adjusted, and we quickly had our work cut out for us. We conducted basic health screenings, with assistants checking vital signs and recording medical histories. Chiropractors then assessed each patient and, where necessary, discussed further referral options such as hospitals or medical doctors. Each person was then adjusted according to their individual needs, based on what their nervous system indicated.

For many of the people we cared for, this may be the only form of healthcare they can access due to financial constraints, limited ability to travel, and an already overstretched hospital system.

I feel immense gratitude for the people I had the privilege of caring for. I encountered cases that would simply not arise in Australia, which highlighted just how significant the role of chiropractic care can be in supporting overall health. From caring for the nervous system to discussing healthcare and referral options, chiropractic can play an important part in supporting the body’s healing journey.

I also witnessed first-hand the improvements in people with whom I could barely communicate. In many ways, that alone felt like a testament to how powerful chiropractic care can be.

My biggest takeaway from this trip is that in giving to others, we also receive so much in return. It was incredibly special to share my skills and offer care to people who might otherwise receive little or none.

Keep an eye out for a deeper insight into Izzy’s trip, along with photos, which will be available in the clinic reception area very soon.

Dr Izzy Henry is available in our Dee Why clinic on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. At our Mosman clinic, Dr Izzy is available on Monday.