Are all patients given the same type of care?
In actuality, there are three stages of chiropractic care:
Relief: If you are experiencing aches, pains and or decreased range of motion, our licensed chiropractors will work to identify the source of the issue and eliminate joint restrictions, also known as subluxations. Subluxations can get in the way of proper nerve communication from the brain to the body–often resulting in pain and discomfort.
While seeking relief, your doctor may recommend multiple visits per week, for two to four weeks, or until the pain is reduced. Your doctor will likely also recommend home therapies such as icing and/or stretching at home.
Recovery: Just because pain and discomfort begin to subside doesn’t mean you should stop receiving care. Muscle and other soft tissue damage may still be present even though the symptoms of pain are gone. Recovery care works to support the body’s ability to heal itself by maintaining proper communication throughout the entire body.
During recovery, your doctor may recommend visiting one to two times per week as well as performing strengthening exercises at home.
Wellness: You’ve heard the phrase “no pain, no gain,” right? Well, chiropractic is a little different. Even when you are not experiencing pain or discomfort, you can gain from routine care. While routine chiropractic can help improve health and well-being; it can also serve as an early detection system for new problems.
Once you’ve found relief and have fully recovered, your doctor will typically recommend maintenance visits along with a balanced diet and exercise regimen.
Can chiropractic improve my athletic performance?
There is a reason why elite athletes, like Michael Phelps, Tom Brady and Rory Mcilroy, are under regular chiropractic care. Studies have shown that it:
Reduces inflammation
Boosts your immune system function
Enhances pulmonary function
Decreases mental and oxidative stress
Relieves muscle tension
Can naturally increase your energy level
Studies have even shown, objectively and subjectively, that chiropractic patients experience “overall increased bodily function,” which enhances your ability to think, move and perform.
Does Chiropractic Care Hurt and is it Safe?
Chiropractic is the largest, non-invasive, drug-less and safest forms of health care available. Statistically, patient risk is substantially lower when receiving chiropractic care as opposed to medical care, where the use of prescription drugs and surgery pose a greater risk. Chiropractic adjustment is a highly controlled procedure that rarely causes discomfort because minimal force and gentle pressure are used. In fact, most patients feel relief immediately following treatment.
Will I be sore following a chiropractic 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 your first visit can help ease any discomfort to promote healing.
If I go to a chiropractor, will I have to keep going back for the rest of my life?
The answer to this question depends on your presenting condition and overall goals. Some patients may choose only to seek relief when pain or symptoms occur whereas others desire a more preventative approach to their health. Just as regular visits to the dentist are necessary for good dental hygiene, routine visits to a Doctor of Chiropractic for proper spinal function and health maintenance are also important.
I already "pop" my own neck, so why would I need to go to a chiropractor?
You should not try to forcefully manipulate your spine. Chiropractors are highly trained to adjust the spine in a very specific manner, location and direction. As a result, it is virtually impossible to adjust oneself correctly and accurately.
What is a joint dysfunction/subluxation in chiropractic terminology?
The terms joint dysfunction, subluxation or spinal misalignment are often used interchangeably. Regardless of the term used when a joint in the spine or extremities is restricted, it creates a lack of motion that, in turn, creates a dysfunction of the joint itself. This joint dysfunction can adversely affect the nervous system and your ability to perform normal daily activities.
Can proper shoes or orthotics (shoe inserts) help my back and neck pain?
Yes. The shoes you wear and the type of foundation you stand on daily will be a major determining factor in the stabilization of the spine and joints of your body.
If I am under chiropractic care, will I still need to take my pain medication?
Only the health care provider that placed you on the medication can legally and safely alter the dosage. Many patients under regular chiropractic care have reported a positive change in their symptoms and less medication (prescriptions) and over-the-counter (OTC) drug use.