Menu

FAQ

 FAQ

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic - [ki"ro-prak'tik] means "done by hand." Chiropractors blend the drugless, non-surgical art of hands-on therapy with the science and technology of modern medicine and physical rehabilitation. It is a branch of health care that concentrates on naturally balancing and optimizing the function of the body in order to promote and maintain health. At the foundation of chiropractic philosophy is that the body has the ability to heal itself, provided the organ systems function optimally. The primary treatment administered by chiropractors is spinal manipulation, also known as an adjustment. Most chiropractors prescribe exercises, stretches and lifestyle modifications to maintain optimal health. Some also provide nutritional counseling.
 

Is a chiropractor a regular doctor?

Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts which is concerned with human health and disease processes. Doctors of Chiropractic are physicians who consider man as an integrated being and give special attention to the physiological and biochemical aspects including structural, spinal, musculoskeletal, neurological, vascular, nutritional, emotional and environmental relationships. The practice and procedures which may be employed by Doctors of Chiropractic are based on the academic and clinical training received in and through accredited chiropractic colleges and include, but are not limited to, the use of current diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Such procedures specifically include the adjustment and manipulation of the articulations and adjacent tissues of the human body, particularly of the spinal column. Included is the treatment of intersegmental aberrations for alleviation of related functional disorders.
 

Does insurance pay for chiropractic?

Yes, many health insurance insurance companies reimburse for a portion of chiropractic treatment. We will call to confirm your benefits and highly recommend that you do the same.
 

Once you go to a chiropractor you have to keep going?

No. Actually, many people elect to continue their chiropractic treatment after feeling well. Why? Because periodic elective "maintenance care" makes them feel better. Chiropractic treatment is an integral component to many healthy people's "health maintenance" plan; similar to diet, exercise and proper sleep.
 

Does "cracking your knuckles" cause arthritis?

Contrary to what your mother may have told you, knuckle cracking actually does not cause joint arthritis. However, knuckle crackers tend to experience more joint stiffness later in life. Regardless, spinal adjustments / manipulations are quite different than cracking one's knuckles. When a spinal adjustment is performed, the joint is slightly gapped momentarily; opening the joint surfaces. Knuckle crackers actually grind the joint surfaces together, potentially irritating the joint.
 

Are Chiropractic adjustments safe?

In general, chiropractic treatments carry a very low risk of complication. Approximately 25% of patients will experience short-term [24 hours] of local soreness following the initial adjustment. The risk of serious, irreversible complication is rare. Estimates for neck adjustments are between 1 in 400,000 to 1 in 5.85 million. With regards to the low back, estimates for serious complication is "1 in many million." It is important that you discuss any specific concerns with your treating chiropractor prior to receiving treatment.
 

How long does a treatment take?

Most treatment sessions require between 10-20 minutes; depending upon the depth and scope of care necessary. The initial examination typically lasts 60-90 minutes, depending on the complexity of a patient's condition, and whether a treatment is received immediately after the initial evaluation.
 

What is the cracking noise with an adjustment and is it safe?

Chiropractic adjustments most commonly elicit an audible "pop" or "crack" sound. Chiropractors refer to this as an "audible release" or "cavitation sound." Treatment success is not dependent upon this noise. Your spinal joints contain a fluid known as synovium. The synovial fluid contains dissolved gasses; mostly carbon dioxide. When your spine is adjusted, a vacuum is created within the joint and the dissolved gasses come out of solution, forming a gas bubble. This vacuum creates a "pop."