CHIROPRACTIC CARE

What is chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care is a drug-free, non-surgical medical system that is concerned with health and disease prevention. Doctors of Chiropractic are licensed physicians who view the body as a whole, integrated being. Chiropractors give special attention to the physiological and biochemical aspects of human health. This approach includes addressing the spinal, musculoskeletal, structural, neurological, vascular, emotional, nutritional, and environmental status of the body. Using adjustments to the spine and extremities, chiropractors help to increase mobilization and alignment of the human frame. Once the musculoskeletal system is in alignment, it can become from irritation and dysfunction of the nervous system.

What happens during an initial appointment?

Your initial appointment involves a detailed health history and a thorough physical exam of the affected area. Depending on your injury or condition, the chiropractic doctor may take x-rays to provide a better picture of the underlying cause of your symptoms and the structure of your body. Afterward, you will receive an explanation of findings, your questions will be answered, and treatment recommendations will be discussed.

Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?

The majority of people who receive chiropractic care say there is no pain at all, and that they feel good during and after the spinal adjustment. Some people may have some minimal soreness and aching after the first few visits. The body is adapting to its restored functional state, so that may mimic the muscular soreness you feel after exercise. You can apply ice after your first few visits, to help decrease the odds of this occurring.

Do you work with other specialists? Can you interpret x-rays, MRIs, and CAT scans?

Chiropractic doctors often work closely with many other specialists, including primary care physicians, radiologists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedists, and orthopedic surgeons. Chiropractic professionals can also make appropriate referrals, as needed. When it is clinically warranted, chiropractors take x-rays as part of your quality of care. Furthermore, chiropractors use advanced studies such as MRIs and CAT scans when they are medically necessary to help in diagnosis and treatment.

What techniques do the doctors use?

Doctors of Chiropractic use a variety of methods depending on the condition being treated and the patient. The most common techniques include:

  • Traditional, manual chiropractic adjustment
  • Low-force adjustments (utilizing a specialized drop table or handheld activator device)
  • Flexion-distraction (a specialized low-force technique) 
  • Non-forceful soft tissue stretching and mobilization 
  • Rehabilitative stretching and strengthening programs 
  • Adjunctive physiotherapy modalities, such as heat and ice

What kind of training do chiropractors receive?

Chiropractic colleges require entrants to have a bachelor’s degree focused on pre-med studies such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or kinesiology. Once admitted to chiropractic school, aspiring chiropractors undergo an additional three to four years of education and training. While attending school, chiropractic students spend over a year in clinical practice, honing their skills and competencies. As you can see, chiropractors are fully-trained, knowledgeable, and qualified medical providers. Chiropractic care might just be the answer you are seeking for your stubborn pain or chronic health condition.