Chiropractic supports the concept that maintenance of proper function of the musculo-skeletal system can provide for better health. Chiropractic is a form of health care that is drugless, non-invasive, and actively promotes health. Chiropractic care is holistic, meaning that the entire body and person's lifestyle are examined and treated. When a chiropractor works with a patient, the cause of a patient's physical problem is addressed and lifestyle factors that may affect the problem (such as diet, posture, exercise, and others) are modified to speed recovery and prevent reoccurrences. Chiropractic care uses natural health methods such as exercise, nutrition and diet, and lifestyle modification to promote wellness.  

What is an Adjustment?

Chiropractic care is known (but not exclusively) for its use of the adjustment, sometimes called manipulation. An adjustment is a precise procedure in which the trained Doctor of Chiropractic exerts a specific corrective pressure at specific places on your spine or other joints. When a thorough examination reveals joints that are not in proper function, adjustments are applied to correct joint alignment and mobility, relieve associated muscle and nerve tension, improve balance and assist healing. In most cases, adjustments are performed manually by the Doctor.        

What can I expect from treatment?

You will be asked to complete a comprehensive health history. Examination may include palpation (examination by touch), range of motion, strength, neurological, and orthopedic tests. Other tests may include X-ray, MRI, Lab Tests. Besides the adjustment, the doctor may use physiotherapies such as electrical muscle stimulation, ultrasound and massage. Your chiropractor will also take the time to counsel you about the prevention of disease and the methods for living a healthy lifestyle. The treatment you receive will be designed specifically for you based on your symptoms and examination findings. Your progress under chiropractic care will be carefully monitored. The subjective improvement as well as the objective findings will be noted, and your treatment plan will be modified to meet your changing condition.

 What conditions benefit from chiropractic care?  

Although chiropractic is used most frequently to relieve low back pain, studies have found it to be effective for a variety of conditions, such as migraine headaches, neck and shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and infantile colic.

Does Chiropractic hurt?

Under normal circumstances, adjustments don't hurt. The patient may experience a minor amount of discomfort during the adjustment which lasts only seconds.

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

Chiropractors receive an education that emphasizes neuromuscular diagnosis and treatment. 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.

Is Chiropractic safe?

Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are extremely safe. The risk factor is estimated to be in excess of one million to one. Have any studies been published showing what chiropractic is effective? Several studies have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in relieving back pain. More recent studies have shown chiropractic to be effective in treating infantile colic and migraine headaches.

What can I expect on my first visit?

The first thing a chiropractor will do is ask you about the health complaints about which you are chiefly concerned. The DC 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 DC's clinical judgment, which may include x-rays, laboratory analysis 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.