General Chiropractic Questions What is chiropractic care?
Chiropractic care is a healthcare field dedicated to addressing how joint misalignments affect the nervous system and its ability to properly function within the body. Chiropractic care removes these misalignments, known as subluxations, so your nervous system functions at its highest potential.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is the practice of using controlled force to address a specific joint that is not properly moving or may be "locked up". This is done to remove any misalignment of the joints so the nervous system functions at its highest potential.
Chiropractic adjustments rarely cause discomfort because minimal force and gentle pressure are used. Most patients feel relief immediately following an adjustment. Any reported soreness after an initial adjustment has been described as similar to that associated with starting a new exercise program. Drinking plenty of water, using an ice pack, and engaging in light stretching after an adjustment can help ease any discomfort and promote healing.
Chiropractic care is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for most back and neck problems. Spinal adjustments are extremely safe when performed by a licensed chiropractor.
What is the popping sound I hear when I get adjusted by my chiropractor?
The popping sound you hear is called joint cavitation. This is caused by air being trapped in the cavity of the joint. The popping noise is a sudden release of the air and pressure from the joint cavity.
Are all patients adjusted the same way?
No. Adjustments are personalized to each patient's specific needs to get the best possible results.
Will I be required to remove my clothing at my appointment?
You may be asked during your initial exam to dress in one of our provided gowns, but that is the only time we would require this.
Why do chiropractors take X-rays?
Chiropractors take X-Rays to identify where subluxations may be present in the body, what kind of treatment is necessary for each person, and to make sure there are no conditions preventing you from being able to receive chiropractic care.
Is chiropractic treatment ongoing?
Yes and no. When you first begin chiropractic care, the treatment phase, you spend approximately 10-14 months addressing what was present for a long time. After your DC has determined active treatment is complete, wellness care is the net phase. This is meant to address new subluxations as they occur and prevent chronic injury or degeneration in the future.
My chiropractor prescribed a series of visits for me, why does it take more than one visit?
Oftentimes, subluxations are not addressed soon enough and are present for many years causing multiple symptoms. The longer your body has been subluxated and not functioning at its best, the longer it may take for your body to respond to treatments.
What kind of results can I expect?
Many patients report improvement in back and neck pain after beginning a chiropractic routine. In addition, some patients report fewer headache days, improved digestion, improved sleep, and so much more.
Can I learn to adjust myself?
No. There are many techniques DCs use to adjust their patients and the technique is determined by what your body needs at that moment. Since subluxations happen at any time, your body is constantly changing and the adjustment needed changes to address your body's condition at the time of your appointment. Oftentimes if you "adjust" yourself, you're adjusting non subluxated joints and may feel relief for a moment but discomfort is quick to return since the source of discomfort is not properly addressed.
Why do chiropractors take X-rays?
Chiropractors take X-Rays to identify where subluxations may be present in the body, what kind of treatment is necessary for each person, and to make sure there are no conditions preventing you from being able to receive chiropractic care.
Back pain is common, about 80% of the population experience back pain at any point in their life. This doesn't mean that it's normal to experience back pain. There many options for treatment including chiropractic adjustments.
Why do chiropractors take X-rays?
Chiropractors take X-Rays to identify where subluxations may be present in the body, what kind of treatment is necessary for each person, and to make sure there are no conditions preventing you from being able to receive chiropractic care.
How do you get subluxations?
Subluxations happen at any moment. Common causes are stress, repetitive motions, injuries, and overuse/underuse of muscles.
Can I tell if I have a subluxation?
Sometimes, but most often, you can have subluxations and not even know it. As a matter of fact, the last symptom you will experience from a subluxation is pain. Pain is also the first symptom that patients find relief from.
Will I receive medication for my pain?
Not in our office. We do not offer medical prescriptions of any kind.
Can paitents with arthritis receive chiropractic care?
Yes. Many people who suffer from arthritis find some relief from having a chiropractic routine. Regular adjustments help to relieve pressure on the joints helping to reduce inflammation.
Can a person with previous back surgery see a chiropractor?
Yes. Chiropractors take X-Rays and perform an exam to determine where adjustments are possible after a surgery. Because there are so many bones within the spine, it is still necessary to address areas where surgery has not occured.
Pediatric & Prenatal Chiropractic Questions Is chiropractic treatment appropriate for children?
Yes. People of all ages are susceptible to subluxation that can cause dysfunction in the body. Chiropractic for children can help address and potentially prevent many things like ear infections, scoliosis, enuresis (bedwetting)
Can I see a chiropractor if i'm pregnant?
Yes. As a matter of fact, seeing a chiropractor throughout your pregnancy is important as your body is shifting to make room for your baby and carrying additional weight.
Why do newborns get adjustments?
The birth process is traumatic for infants no matter how they are born. When the infant is twisted and pulled into this world their fragile bones become subluxated. Having your infant checked as soon as possible to remove subluxations can help with their eating, colic, sleep, any constipation, and more.
Chiropractic Credentials Questions What type of education and training do chiropractors have?
Chiropractors are required to complete an undergraduate degree before beginning to persue a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC). For chiropractors to earn their DC and become licensed in their state, they complete 4 years of course work and take 4 seperate parts of National Board Certification at certain milestones. In addition to National Licensure, Chiropractors are licensed in each state they practice in and must take Continuing Education courses to maintain their licensing and renew their license every 2 years.
Are chiropractors doctors?
Yes. Chiropractors are Doctors that address the spine and nervous systems interaction. Chiropractors are often required to take more credit hours than MDs.
Chiropractor Insurance Questions Are chiropractors allowed to practice in hospitals or use medical outpatient facilities?
Yes. Many hospitals are adding chiropractors to their staff or have outpatient facilities.
Does insurance cover chiropractic?
Like all insurance, coverage depends on your personal policy. Most policies now include some chiropractic care. Who your chiropractor is in-network with will also determine what your insurance will cover.
Does chiropractic treatment require a referral from an MD?
No. You do not need a referral from a MD to see a Chiropractor though your insurance may require a referral for coverage to be available.
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