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What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is based on the scientific fact that your body is a
self-regulating, self-healing organism controlled by the brain,
spinal cord and nerves. The 24 bones of the spine, or vertebrae,
surround and protect the spinal cord and nerves. When misaligned,
or subluxated, the vertebrae can interfere with the nervous system,
causing pain and dysfunction.
As chiropractors, our objective is to analyze the
spine, locate and correct these vertebral subluxations. The chiropractic
method of correction is by specific adjustments of the spine, which
are intended to correct vertebral subluxations over time, thereby
allowing the innate (inborn) healing abilities of the body to work
at maximum efficiency.
What is an adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a carefully
directed and controlled pressure applied to a spinal joint that
is subluxated, or not moving properly. The chiropractic adjustment
removes subluxations and restores motion to the joints, helping
the bones of the spine gradually return to a more normal position
and motion. With improved position and motion, there is decreased
interference with the nervous system, increased communication within
the body, and improved overall balance.
After many years of training, a chiropractor is an
expert at using the correct amount of force in the correct direction.
Some adjustments may require a quick movement, and others involve
slow and constant pressure. After a thorough examination, we determine
which technique will work best for you.
What conditions can chiropractors treat?
Chiropractors do not treat conditions, nor do they cure disease!
Chiropractors adjust vertebral subluxations to remove interference
from the nervous system. With a properly functioning nervous system,
your body is able to heal itself. Chiropractors do not chase symptoms;
they look for the cause of the problem so the symptoms do not return.
From sports injuries to prenatal care, our goal is always the same
- to adjust spinal subluxations allowing the body to heal itself
and function more efficiently.
How old do you have to be to see a chiropractor?
Chiropractic is safe and effective for people of all ages, from
newborns to senior citizens. Each person is unique, so we will design
a care program specific for your age, condition, and lifestyle.
We have adjusted newborns minutes after birth, have a large family
practice and have had four generations of a family in one adjusting
room!
How much education do Doctors of Chiropractic
need?
After completing their undergraduate education, chiropractors receive
an additional four years of post-graduate education and a one-year
internship to become a Doctor of Chiropractic. Their education curriculum
is similar to medical school and there is special emphasis on anatomy,
physiology, neurology, biomechanics, nutrition, X-ray, and spinal
adjusting techniques. To become a licensed chiropractor, he or she
must pass a demanding four-part National Board Examination and then
a State Board examination for the state in which they wish to practice.
A chiropractor’s education never stops, as yearly continuing education
is required for license renewal.
Is chiropractic safe?
Yes, chiropractic care is a safe and conservative form of health
care. Since chiropractors do not prescribe medication or perform
surgery there are no dangerous side effects. According to a New
Zealand government’s inquiry, chiropractic care is “remarkably safe.”
People of all ages, from newborns to senior citizens, enjoy the
benefits of this natural approach to promoting good health.
How long will it take me to get better?
It is difficult to predict how your body will react to adjustments.
Correcting a spinal problem depends on several factors including
how long the problem has been around and your current lifestyle.
Your body will heal as quickly as it wants to, and sometimes that
takes time. Some patients may require ongoing supportive care for
optimum spinal function, while others find that periodic checkups
help keep them in balance and maintain better health.
Can I adjust myself?
It is virtually impossible to adjust yourself
because a chiropractic adjustment is a specific force applied in
a specific direction to one area in the spine. Even a chiropractor
cannot adjust him or herself. It is possible to bend or twist and
hear and feel a “popping” along the spine. This is a general movement,
however, that may help release pressure but is usually counterproductive
and can create areas of instability. The best way to adjust the
spine is to see a doctor of chiropractic. There is a reason they
went through all of that schooling!
Is chiropractic care expensive?
No, chiropractic care can be relatively inexpensive. Your insurance
may cover chiropractic care. Or, if you are without health
insurance coverage, there is no charge for the consultation and
X-rays start at $37.50.
Will my health insurance cover chiropractic care?
Many insurance groups cover chiropractic
care. If you have health insurance, bring your card with you and
we can call the company to verify benefits. Auto insurance may cover
you for any auto-related injuries and if you have been injured on
the job, we can bill Workers’ Compensation.
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