Frequently Asked Questions?
Chiropractic healthcare is a branch of the healing arts based on
the scientific fact that the nervous system controls and regulates
all functions within the human body. Interference with the nervous
system due to structural dysfunction can cause impairment of bodily
functions. Chiropractic works to eliminate the structural problems
that influences the nervous system, and to restore optimal function
of the body without the use of medications and surgery.
Why do I need a Chiropractor?
The approach of chiropractic health care is to identify the cause
of your health problem and not simply treat the symptoms of disease.
A variety of symptoms such as pain, numbness and tingling, muscle
spasms, decreased range of motion and headaches are just a few of
the problems that chiropractic can help to improve upon. This is
done by improving spinal function, which not only helps to reduce
your symptoms, but also allows your nervous system to function
optimally.
What can I expect on my first visit to the Chiropractor?
Upon your arrival to our clinic you will meet with your
future-treating chiropractor. He or she will ask you about the
primary health complaint you are concerned about. The Doctor will
also inquire about further information regarding your medical
history, and other questions designed to help determine the nature
of your present illness.
A physical examination will be performed based on your doctor’s
clinical judgment, which may involve x-rays and other diagnostic
procedures. Careful spinal examination and analysis will be
performed to detect structural abnormalities, which may be affecting
or causing your condition. Upon analysis of the information gathered
from the examination and other diagnostic workup, your doctor will
explain your present illness in terms you can understand and arrive
at a treatment plan to resolve your problem.
What does a Chiropractor evaluate for?
A Chiropractor will evaluate for abnormal motion or positioning of
vertebrae (known as the vertebral subluxation complex or VSC), which
can compromise the space in which a spinal nerve exits the spinal
column. When a nerve is compromised, irritation or interference can
result. Much like static on a phone call the transmission from a
spinal nerve may go through but quality of the signal may be
affected.
The Vertebral subluxation can cause a wide variety of problems
besides pain. The most common problems associated with subluxation
are the following:
1. Decreased or restricted spinal motion.
2. Shortened muscle tissue, which may lead to decreased strength and
flexibility as well as scar tissue development.
3. Numbness and/or tingling may occur over the area a nerve travels.
4. Inflammation or swelling can occur in joints and surrounding soft
tissue.
5. Joints may wear out prematurely due to unequal wear and tear,
resulting in degenerative joint disease and bone spurs.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is the primary method of treatment used by
a chiropractor. The purpose of the adjustment is to normalize
structural function to reduce nerve interference as described in the
vertebral subluxation complex.
An adjustment is applied through the use of a specific force in a
precise direction applied to a joint that is not moving properly.
This adds motion to the joint allowing the bones to gradually return
to the normal position and motion. In general, chiropractic
adjustments are not painful, however there is an associated popping
sound known as an audible release. This sound is gas being released
from a joint much like plastic bubble wrap popping.
Can I adjust myself?
It is not possible to effectively adjust yourself. A chiropractic
adjustment requires a specific force, contact, and direction. It is
possible to contort your body to create a "popping" sound much like
an adjustment; however, this release is not sufficient to restore
proper joint motion and ultimately can do more damage than good.
This type of maneuver can create more instability in a joint that
already has problems maintaining it’s proper function.
Is Chiropractic care safe?
Chiropractic care has a remarkable safety record due to the
conservative nature of its treatments, that is, the absence of
medications and surgery. Furthermore, the thorough analysis or each
individual’s condition prior to treatment allows your Chiropractor
to provide safe and effective treatment.
Is it possible to speed the healing process?
Although your body’s natural healing process takes time, there are
ways that you can aid your recovery in conjunction with your
chiropractic treatment. Your doctor will design a treatment plan
specifically for your health care needs. Proper nutrition,
exercises, and stretches are often part of treatment plans.
Following your doctor’s treatment plan will facilitate the healing
process. Remember, the more you do to progress your treatment, the
quicker you can return to health.
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