Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding chiropractic.

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is the art of using a specific force in a precise direction, applied to a joint that is subluxated, “locked up,” or not moving properly. The purpose of this safe and natural procedure is to eliminate interference to the nervous system, improving spinal function and overall health.

1) Can chiropractic help me?

Consultation, review of your health history and imaging studies (X-ray or MRI) and an examination are essential factors to determine if chiropractic can help you. If chiropractic cannot help you, we will refer you to another specialist who may be able to help you.

2) Is chiropractic safe?

Yes. Chiropractic has an excellent safety record. It is the result of a conservative and natural approach to health that avoids invasive procedures or addictive drugs. As proof, one merely has to compare malpractice rates between chiropractors and other health care professionals. Chiropractors’ malpractice premiums are a small fraction of those for medical doctors.

3) What type of education do chiropractic doctors receive?

Doctors of Chiropractic are well educated. Chiropractic education and medical education are similar in many respects and different in others because chiropractors do not prescribe drugs or perform surgery, and medical doctors do not correct vertebral subluxations. After graduating with a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) Degree, each candidate passes the demanding four part National Board Examinations. Then, doctors apply to a governmental or professional licensing board and pass a still more difficult test before being granted the privilege of practice. Your chiropractor is extremely well-trained in anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, joint biomechanics and nutrition.

4) How long have the doctors been practicing chiropractic?

Since 1997.

5) What sets your office apart from others?

We listen and we care. We draw on decades of professional experience to provide you with excellent chiropractic treatment. We offer chiropractic care based on a broad spectrum of adjustment methods including the very gentle chiropractic treatment protocols which may include an adjunctive therapy before or after your care, easy practical exercise for home or office, nutritional support, ergonomic advice or custom orthotics (foot arch support) when indicated.

6) How long would it take to complete my care?

During the initial two or three visits, we observe your response to chiropractic care and your rate of recovery. The doctor then designs a personalized treatment protocol based on your rate of recovery and the status of your condition.

7) Can I tell if I have a subluxation?

Not always. A subluxation is like a dental cavity–you may have it for a long time before symptoms appear. That’s why periodic spinal checkups are so important. Although it may be possible to know you have a subluxation, it is rarely possible to be sure you don’t. Regular spinal checkups are always a good idea, and they promote good health from the inside out.

8) Are all patients adjusted the same way?

No. The doctor evaluates each patient’s unique spinal problem and develops an individual course of care. Each chiropractic adjustment builds on the one before. The resulting recommendations are based upon years of training and experience. Each patient’s care is uniquely different from every other patient.

9) How much does it cost?

It depends on the type of services that you receive. We offer quality care for a competitive fee. Please call our office for details.

10) How long is my first appointment?

Your first visit is approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

11) Why do chiropractors take x-rays?

We do not routinely take x-rays. Only when the patient has had significant trauma or does not respond to treatment as we would normally expect, then we order only those films or MRI’s which are absolutely necessary. If you already have recent imaging studies, we can often use those. We never x-ray pregnant women, nor do we x-ray children under the age of 18.

12) Do children need chiropractic care?

Since significant spinal trauma can occur at birth, many parents have their newborns checked for vertebral subluxation. Naturally, chiropractic adjusting procedures are adapted for the child’s spine. Many childhood health complaints that are brushed off can be traced to the spine. Health problems that emerge in adulthood could often be prevented by having your children’s spine checked by a chiropractor early. Most parents report that their children enjoy their chiropractic adjustments and are healthier than their peers.

13) Is chiropractic safe when I’m pregnant?

According to the American Pregnancy Association, chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe. Changes to the spine occur during pregnancy and can be helped with chiropractic care. All chiropractors are trained to work with pregnant women.

14) Can a person who had back surgery see a chiropractor?

Yes. It’s an unfortunate fact that up to half of those who had spinal surgery discover a return of their original symptoms months or years later. They then face the prospect of additional surgery. This too common occurrence is know as “Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.” Chiropractic may help prevent repeated back surgeries. In fact, if chiropractic care is initially utilized, back surgery can often be avoided in the first place.

15) Does chiropractic work for all types of health problems?

No; however chiropractic care is successful because of improved nerve function. Every cell in our bodies is supplied either directly or indirectly by the nervous system. With a normal nerve supply, the body’s natural healing capacity can improve allergies, digestive system problems, and migraine headaches just to name a few.

You can learn more about the benefits of chiropractic care by calling our office at (828) 885-7100 or by attending one of our free public workshops.