Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care
Thank you for considering our chiropractic services! Below, you'll find answers to some of the most common questions our patients ask. If you need more information or don’t see your question here, please reach out. We look forward to helping you achieve better health.
1. Will every patient receive the same type of chiropractic treatment?
Short Answer: No.
Details: We believe in personalized care. Our chiropractors will assess your spine, posture, and health history before creating a unique treatment plan designed just for you.
2. Can I see a chiropractor if I've already had back surgery?
Short Answer: Yes.
Details: Many individuals experience recurring issues after spinal surgery (“failed back surgery syndrome”). Chiropractic care may help reduce the chance of further surgery and, in some cases, can even be used to avoid surgical intervention altogether.
3. Can I safely adjust my own spine?
Short Answer: No.
Details: Chiropractic adjustments require specialized training and precise techniques. Attempting to self-adjust can worsen spinal misalignments or lead to additional problems. Always consult a trained professional.
4. How can I tell if I have a subluxation if I feel no pain?
Short Answer: You might not be able to.
Details: Subluxations, much like cavities, can exist without obvious symptoms. Regular chiropractic checkups help catch and correct hidden issues before they turn into bigger problems.
5. Is chiropractic care appropriate for children?
Short Answer: Yes.
Details: Spinal misalignments can happen as early as birth. Gentle, child-specific adjustments can help correct minor misalignments early, potentially preventing bigger health concerns later in life.
6. Does chiropractic care solve every health problem?
Short Answer: No.
Details: While it isn’t a cure-all, chiropractic adjustments often help with a wide range of conditions by improving nerve function. When your nervous system operates optimally, your body’s self-healing abilities are enhanced.
7. How does chiropractic actually work?
Short Answer: By removing interference in your nervous system.
Details: Chiropractic adjustments target subluxations—misalignments that disrupt nerve signals. By correcting these misalignments, we allow your body’s natural healing processes to function more effectively.
8. Can I use promotional offers if I have government insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, etc.)?
Short Answer: Generally, no.
Details: Patients with government insurance are often not eligible for promotional offers due to regulations. We suggest scheduling a free consultation to understand what is covered and discuss evaluation costs.
9. Is exercising the same as getting a chiropractic adjustment?
Short Answer: No.
Details: Exercise is excellent for overall health, but it doesn't address specific spinal misalignments. If your spine isn’t functioning properly, exercise can sometimes strain the affected joints further.
10. Can chiropractic care become addictive?
Short Answer: No.
Details: However, many people find ongoing adjustments beneficial because they experience better balance, reduced stress, and more energy, which can lead to a higher quality of life.
11. Is chiropractic considered safe?
Short Answer: Yes.
Details: Chiropractic care is known for its strong safety record. It’s non-invasive and drug-free, focusing on natural methods to promote wellness.
12. Can you get chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy?
Short Answer: Absolutely.
Details: Adjustments can help alleviate discomfort from carrying extra weight, and specialized techniques ensure both mom and baby stay safe throughout treatment.
13. What causes the "popping" sound during an adjustment?
Short Answer: Gas release in the joints.
Details: It’s the sound of gas bubbles moving in the joint fluid—it’s harmless and a normal part of certain adjustments.
14. What exactly is a chiropractic adjustment?
Short Answer: A precise, controlled force to correct spinal misalignments.
Details: By applying specific force to a misaligned joint, we help restore normal function and reduce nerve interference, improving overall health.
15. What does chiropractic care focus on?
Short Answer: Correcting the root cause, not just symptoms.
Details: Chiropractors focus on spinal alignment and nervous system health. By addressing underlying causes, your body can heal naturally and more effectively.
16. How is a chiropractor different from an osteopath?
Short Answer: Chiropractors specialize in detecting and correcting spinal misalignments; osteopaths may also use medical treatments.
Details: While both professions use manipulative techniques, chiropractic places emphasis on the nervous system and specific spinal adjustments.
17. What kind of education do chiropractors have?
Short Answer: Extensive, including national board exams and ongoing training.
Details: Chiropractors complete undergraduate prerequisites, attend a four-year doctoral program, pass national boards, and obtain licensure. They must also pursue ongoing education to stay updated on the latest research and methods.
18. Why do chiropractors use X-rays?
Short Answer: To get a clear view of your spine’s structure and alignment.
Details: X-rays help us pinpoint misalignments, underlying issues, and any structural abnormalities. We use this information to design the safest, most effective treatment plan for you.
Have More Questions?
We’re here to help! If you have additional questions or want to schedule an appointment, feel free to call, email, or visit our clinic in person. We look forward to supporting your journey toward better health.