FAQ

Is Chiropractic safe?

Yes, chiropractic treatment is safe and effective.  While all forms of healthcare involve a certain amount of inherent risk, there is little danger with chiropractic treatment when administered by a licenced chiropractor.  To ensure competency, all Doctors of Chiropractic (or DC's) are required to be board-qualified on a national level, and licensed by state, according to stringent criteria.  Chiropractic care is a conservative approach to healthcare, without the use of prescription drugs and surgery, therefore, statistics show that patient risk is substantially lower than the alternative.

What is that "cracking" noise that I hear when I get an adjustment?

The "cracking" or "popping" noise that occurs during a chiropractic adjustment is known as a cavitation.  Every joint in the body (including all the segments that make up the spine) have a certain amount of movement or motion.  When there is an injury, whether it's mild or severe, this motion decreases, causing that joint or segment to become fixated.  This happens because pressure builds up in the joint, (similar to built up pressure in a soda can).  When this segment is adjusted, the pressure releases and movement occurs more freely.  The "pop" noise is the actual pressure releasing from the joint (just like opening that soda can-you hear a "pop" upon opening the can because all the built-up pressure escapes from within the can).  This is completely normal and causes no harm to the patient.  Overall, it helps to reduce tension and improve range of motion within the joint, allowing the body to heal correctly. 

How much time should I anticipate spending at an appointment?

During your initial office visit, the doctors will typically spend about 30 minutes with you, depending on the severity of the case.  They take a thorough medical history, and educating you about chiropractic care and what to expect during a course of treatment.  If medically necessary, x-rays may be ordered as well.  If x-rays are not necessary, a Physical Examination, including orthopedic and neurological testing will also take place during the first visit. 

Follow-up appointments require about 15 minutes or less, again depending on the severity of the case. 

Do I have to disrobe during my appointment?

No, you do not have to disrobe during a chiropractic treatment.  However, wearing looser fitting clothes, like sweat pants for example, tend to be more comfortable for the patient during a treatment.  Patient gowns are also provided, if necessary.

Once I start seeing a chiropractor, do I have to continue the rest of my life?

Your treatment plan from a chiropractor is much like a prescription from your medical doctor when you are sick.  It is prescribed for a reason, and that is to help you return to optimal health and function as soon as possible.  Sticking to the entire treatment plan (including at home recommendations) or prescription is the BEST way to get your body feeling better, fast. 

Once your symptoms improve, both subjectively and objectively, then whether or not you decide to continue care at a wellness level, becomes your choice.  Wellness care means that you are taking a proactive, or preventative approach to your healthcare in an effort to remain pain-free, avoid future exacerbations or flare-ups, and maintain optimal health and well-being.  Similar to seeing your dentist every six months or so for a check-up and routine cleaning, regardless of the presence of pain, seeing your chiropractor regularly helps you to maintain your spinal hygiene. 

*It is important to note, however, that currently most insurance companies deny coverage for "wellness/maintenance care".  Therefore, chiropractic treatment becomes an out-of-pocket expense when no longer deemed medically necessary.