FAQ :
Chiropractors have helped millions of people around the globe for over a hundred years. People from all walks of life, with various conditions, not just neck or back pain, have benefited from chiropractic care. Scientific studies have proven the effectiveness of chiropractic, and many medical experts have started utilizing chiropractors as an effective treatment for many musculoskeletal complaints. Chances are, you can benefit from chiropractic care as well.
Our joints contain synovial fluid. Synovial fluid acts as a lubricant for our joints, and contains the gases, oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide. When an adjustment is performed, the joint capsule is stretched adding volume to the capsule. The increase volume allows the gases to expand quickly and create a popping sound.
Most patients feel relief from a chiropractic adjustment. Chiropractors are highly trained in adjustment procedures, and an adjustment rarely causes discomfort. Soreness may be present after an initial adjustment, similar to a heavy work out.
A chiropractic adjustment, (aka a manipulation) is a manual procedure in which the chiropractic physician uses his hands, and in some instances an instrument, to move a joint through its proper range of motion using quick high velocity, low amplitude movements. Performed mostly in the spine, but can be used to move most joints in the body that are not functioning properly. Chiropractors are highly trained to do these types of procedures, and should NEVER be attempted by anybody not properly trained. Proper joint function is essential for pain free motion of the joint.
Initial visits vary due to the extent of a patient’s injury. Initial exams can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes depending on many factors. After your initial visit, the doctor will explain what he has found and discuss an appropriate treatment plan.
Chiropractic care varies from patient to patient. While some patients require longer treatment plans due to more severe injuries, others may only need a quick tune-up adjustment to help with less severe problems. The benefits of a chiropractic adjustment are undeniable, and most if not all chiropractors would like to see their patients for periodic maintenance care. Periodic adjustments will reduce symptoms from old injuries, as well as helping to prevent new injuries. Keeping the joints moving properly will help minimize the degenerative process.
Chiropractors are highly respected for their expertise in caring for patients with back pain, neck pain and headaches. However, chiropractors are also well trained to care for patients with a wide range of injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, including:
Back pain, neck pain, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, frozen shoulder, headaches, musculoskeletal pain, nerve pain, osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, scoliosis, sciatica, herniated disc, shoulder pain, stress, sports injuries, whiplash, tennis elbow, sprains and strains, tingling, numbness or weakness.
Chiropractic is widely acknowledged as one of the safest, non-invasive, drug free therapies available for treating neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Chiropractic enjoys an excellent safety record, however no health treatment is 100% free of potential side effects. The risks with chiropractic are extremely small. Chiropractors are trained to identify risk factors that may complicate care, and modify their treatment plans accordingly. It should be noted, NEVER try to adjust on your own, and NEVER let an untrained individual attempt to adjust you.
Doctors of chiropractic are educated as primary-contact health care providers, with an emphasis on diagnosis and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Educational requirements of doctors of chiropractic are some of the most demanding of any health care professionals.
The average applicant to chiropractic college has already completed approximately 4 years of pre-medical undergraduate college education. This includes course work in biology, physics, organic and inorganic chemistry, as well as the related lab work. Once a student is accepted into a nationally accredited chiropractic college, the coursework becomes even more demanding. Students are required to spend 12 trimesters, (3 years’ full time/year around) studying neurology, physiology, orthopedics, human anatomy, clinical diagnosis, laboratory procedures, diagnostic imaging, pathology, nutrition, adjustment techniques, rehabilitation, and much, much more. Every student is required to complete clinical work as well. Each applicant for licensure is required to pass 4 different national board exams, as well as a state jurisprudence exam.
Chiropractic is covered by most insurance plans, including major medical plans, workers compensation and Medicare. Auto accidents are also covered by insurance. Chiropractic also enjoys coverage at more than 60 military bases, and available to veterans at more than 60 veterans’ medical facilities.
