What conditions do chiropractors treat?
Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) are well known for their expertise in caring for patients with back pain, neck pain and headaches. We also care for patients with a wide range of injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, involving the muscles, ligaments and joints. We can counsel patients on diet, nutrition, exercise, healthy habits, and occupational and lifestyle modification. 

 

Is chiropractic treatment safe?
Yes, chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints. Although chiropractic has an excellent safety record, no health treatment is completely free of potential adverse effects. The risks associated with chiropractic, however, are very small. Many patients feel immediate relief following chiropractic treatment, but some may experience mild soreness or aching, just as they do after some forms of exercise. Current literature shows that minor discomfort or soreness following spinal manipulation typically fades within 24 hours.  

 

Is chiropractic treatment appropriate for children?
Yes, children can benefit from chiropractic care. Children are very physically active and experience many types of falls and blows from activities of daily living as well as from participating in sports. Injuries such as these may cause many symptoms including back and neck pain, stiffness, soreness or discomfort. Chiropractic care is always adapted to you, the individual patient. It is a highly skilled treatment, and in the case of children, very gentle.

 

Do insurance plans cover chiropractic?
Yes. Chiropractic care is included in most health insurance plans, including major medical plans, workers’ compensation, Medicare, some Medicaid plans, and Blue Cross Blue Shield plans for federal employees, among others. Chiropractic care is also available to active-duty members of the armed forces at more than 60 military bases and is available to veterans at 36 major veterans medical facilities. 

 

How is a chiropractic adjustment performed?
Chiropractic adjustment or manipulation is a manual procedure that utilizes the highly refined skills developed during the doctor of chiropractic’s intensive years of chiropractic education. The chiropractic physician typically uses his or her hands--or an instrument--to manipulate the joints of the body, particularly the spine, in order to restore or enhance your joint function. This often helps resolve your joint inflammation and reduces the pain. Chiropractic manipulation is a highly controlled procedure that rarely causes discomfort. Patients often note positive changes in their symptoms immediately following treatment. 

 

Why is there a popping sound when a joint is adjusted?
Adjustment (or manipulation) of a joint may result in the release of a gas bubble between the joints, which makes a popping sound. The same thing occurs when you “crack” your knuckles. The noise is caused by the change of pressure within the joint, which results in gas bubbles being released. There is usually minimal, if any, discomfort involved. 

 

Once I see a chiropractor, do I have to go forever?  

No! How often you decide to see us is always the patient’s choice.  It is our goal to help you get better as fast as possible. Often times, it may take several visits to make significant change, but if it takes only one, that is all that will be necessary. Prevention is better than cure so it is always a good idea to get a checkup periodically (much like going to the dentist).  Most people see great benefits from chiropractic and choose to receive care on a regular basis.

 

What does acupuncture feel like?

Everyone experiences needling differently. Most feel no pain. Some experience minimal pain as the needles are inserted. The needles can be quickly adjusted in the unlikely event of you feeling uncomfortable during the needling process.  Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. 

 

Are the needles clean and sterilized?

Yes.  We only use FDA approved sterile, disposable needles. They are only used once. These needles are carefully manufactured under the guidance of FDA. There is no risk of infection. 

 

How many acupuncture treatments will I need?

The length, number and frequency of treatments will vary from person to person depending on the conditions being treated, your age and health, and how you respond to acupuncture.  Acupuncture is a natural medicine that is assisting your body to make changes, therefore, it can be a gradual process. 

 

Does insurance cover acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the alternative therapies that is more commonly covered by insurance. However, you should check with your insurer before you start treatment to see whether acupuncture will be covered for your condition and, if so, to what extent. Some insurance plans may require pre-authorization for acupuncture.

Are there any contraindications for acupuncture?

There are very few situations where acupuncture is not advised. These are the most common:

• If the patient has a hemophilic condition

• If the patient is pregnant - certain acupuncture points and needle manipulations should not be used during pregnancy

• If the patient has a severe psychotic condition or is under the influence of drugs or alcohol