| How does chiropractic work? Our bodies are self-healing and regulated by our nervous system. Impulses flow from our brain, down our spinal cord, and out to every tissue and organ in our body. Our spinal cord is housed within our spine. Improper motion or position of the moving bones that make up our spine can cause interference with this vital communication. Chiropractic works by locating these affected areas and helping to reduce their effect with spinal adjustments. What is a spinal adjustment? Spinal adjustments are what chiropractors use to help add motion to spinal joints that aren’t moving right or aren’t properly positioned. This usually involves a quick thrust to the affected spinal segments, using either a quick thrust by the doctor’s hands, a small hand held instrument, a special table, or the force of gravity. Are chiropractic adjustments safe? Yes. According to The New Zealand Government Commission’s report, (one of the most detailed studies of chiropractic care), in the hands of a licensed chiropractor, spinal manipulation therapy is remarkably safe. Chiropractic has also been endorsed by hundreds of scientific studies as a safe program of care for patients of all ages. When comparing statistics, adjustments are 100 times safer than taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. Chiropractic adjustments are special. They are delivered to specific segments, at precise angles, with just the right amount of energy at the right time. It takes years of training, practice, and experience and should only be done by a licensed chiropractor. What is the “cracking” sound that is made during a spinal adjustment? Some adjusting methods can produce sounds when the spinal segments are moved. This sound is gas and lubricating fluids shifting in the joints, not bones cracking. It’s actually much like the sounds made when opening a bottle of champagne or removing a suction cup. Can I adjust myself? Some people try to “adjust” themselves, and although they make their joints “pop”, it not an adjustment! When forcing joints with weakened muscles and ligaments, worse damage can occur. That’s why chiropractors perform a thorough evaluation prior to delivering spinal adjustments, and “self adjusting techniques” should be avoided. Even chiropractic doctors need to go to their colleagues for their own adjustments. How many adjustments will I need? The number of adjustments varies with each patient and their individual health goals. Many patients sense progress within a week or two of frequent visits. Visits become less often as your spine stabilizes. Many factors affect the healing process. How long have you had your condition? How well do you follow your doctor’s recommendations? How much rest, exercise and proper nutrition do you get? Are you able to keep to your treatment schedule? How strenuous are your activities of daily living? How much stress are you under? Do you have other medical conditions? How long do I have to continue to go to the chiropractor? That depends on your health goals. Some patients are interested in only relieving their symptoms. Some strive to resolve the condition that caused their symptoms, while many choose to continue with some type of periodic care after they get the relief they wanted in order to prevent future conditions and maintain optimum health. The chiropractor’s job is to offer the very best care and your job is to decide how much of it you want. Is chiropractic covered by my insurance? Chiropractic is covered on a majority of health plans and is even being offered on some HMO plans. Every policy can vary, and therefore it is important to check with your insurance company to verify your coverage. If you are unsure about this process, you can also call our office with your insurance information (or fax us your insurance card), and we will be happy to assist you. |