What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts based upon the understanding that good health depends, in part, upon a normally functioning nervous system (especially the spine, and the nerves extending from the spine to all parts of the body). "Chiropractic" comes from the Greek word chiropraktikos, meaning "effective treatment by hand."Chiropractic stresses the idea that the cause of many diseases is due to poor functioning of the nervous system because of improper motion in the spine. It looks to address these diseases not by the use of drugs and chemicals, but by locating and gently restoring motion to the area of the spine which is functioning improperly.

What conditions benefit from chiropractic care?

Although chiropractic is used most frequently to relieve low back pain, it also treats headaches, migraines, chronic pain, neck pain, shoulder and arm pain, whiplash injuries from car wrecks, ear infections, asthma, numbness or tingling in limbs, athletic injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, T.M.J., knee and foot pain, sciatica, just to name a few.

Does Chiropractic hurt? Is it safe?

Under normal circumstances, adjustments don't hurt. Most patients love getting adjusted and do not feel any discomfort at all. Even children like being treated! Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are extremely safe. The risk factor is estimated to be in excess of one million to one

What kind of education and training do doctors of chiropractic have?

Chiropractors receive an education that is similar to the training of a medical doctor. They receive 4 years of undergraduate studies and then go on to a 4 year doctorate program. Preparation for the practice of chiropractic is concentrated on three areas of learning; basic training in the biological and health sciences (anatomy, physiology, histology, biochemistry, clinical and radiological diagnosis); specialized training in the chiropractic discipline (theoretical studies, practice, diagnosis and applications); and extensive clinical training.

Have any studies been published showing what chiropractic is effective for?

There are many studies which have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in relieving back pain and numerous other health conditions. For further information on a specific health condition, please contact our office and we will direct you to the studies available.

What can I expect on my first visit?

The first thing a chiropractor will do is ask you about your health concerns. The doctor will also ask about your family history, dietary habits, other care you may have had (chiropractic, osteopathic, medical, etc.), your job, and other questions designed to help determine the nature of your illness and the best way to go about treating the problem.
A physical examination will be performed in accordance with your doctor's clinical judgment, which may include x-rays and other diagnostic procedures. In addition, a careful spinal examination and analysis will be performed to detect any structural abnormalities which may be affecting or causing your condition. All of these elements are important components of your total health profile, and vital to the doctor of chiropractic in evaluating your problem.

What are some of the techniques your doctors use?

We use these techniques in our everyday practice: Diversified, Palmer Package, Trigger Point Therapy, Flexion-Distraction, Activator Method, Thompson Technique, Spinal Stabilization Exercises, and Spinal Decompression Therapy.

What is SpineMed® Therapy?  It is a non-surgical spinal decompression procedure.  Go to www.spinaldecompressionchiro.com for more information.