Chiropractic Services
On your first visit, you and the
doctor will discuss your past medical history and current health concerns. A physical examination is performed which
includes postural & gait analysis, orthopedic and neurological examinations and evaluation of the joints and surrounding
muscles. If other tests such as Xrays are needed, you will be referred to a local facility. Once your diagnosis
is established, you will become well educated about your condition and empowered to take an active role in regaining your
health, performance, and wellness. Dr Doonan evaluates each patient's unique problem and develops a treatment
program based on your individual needs. A teamwork approach is adopted, with you as an equal participant in your health care.
The following techniques may be incorporated into your treatment program:
Chiropractic Adjustments (Manipulative
Therapy)
One aspect of chiropractic care is to identify joint restrictions (aka: subluxations), correct them and restore the body
to its maximum performance. Many times, pain is the result of joints that are not moving properly. A chiropractic adjustment
moves a joint with a gentle force and precise direction to restore the joints proper movement. Chiropractic adjustments restore
the normal, healthy motion and position that each joint requires. You may experience hearing a popping sound during
an adjustment. This is completely normal. Gas bubbles are released when a joint capsule is stretched.
It is similar to the bubbles that are released when a soda can is opened, causing the popping sound. Adjustments
provide a decrease in pain and muscle spasms and improved joint movement.
Joint Mobilization
This is an even gentler approach to restore motion
to a joint. The doctor may use her hands or a special chiropractic impulse adjusting tool to the area. The outcomes
are decreased pain and increased mobility. The joint isn’t stretched as much as it is in the chiropractic adjustment,
so you may not hear the popping sound. This may be used if you are not a candidate for chiropractic adjustments.
Pelvic Blocking
Padded wedges are strategically placed between the
patient's pelvis/hips and the table. The position of the blocks vary based on an individual's needs. It may be
used to either stabilize an area or create a slow stretch, which ultimately increases mobility.
Physiotherapeutic Modalities
Ultrasound and Electrical Muscle Stimulation are used to improve tissue healing and speed recovery. Ultrasound emits sound waves that
warm the tissues and increase blood flow to an area. Electrical Muscle Stimulation helps to decrease pain and release
muscle spasms.
Hot/Cold Therapies
Ice may be applied to acute injuries
or inflammation. Moist heat therapy increases blood flow to an area and relieves tight muscles.
Myofascial Release Techniques
Soft tissue techniques may
be used to decrease pain and restore balance to muscles. These techniques include: massage therapy, trigger point
therapy, ART (Active Release Technique), , passive stretching, active-isolated stretching, post facilitative stretching and
post isometric relaxation.
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Instruments are used to break down scar tissue, restore function and decrease pain.
Some of the many conditions treated include ankle sprains, rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and plantar
fasciitis. You may experience some mild discomfort during the procedure and post-treatment bruising.
Rehabilitative Exercises
Numerous studies have demonstrated
that patients who fully understand their condition and engage in an active exercise program get well faster and stay well
longer. Whether you suffer from an acute injury or chronic pain, a rehabilitation program will be customized to meet your
individual needs. Upon completion of your program, you will be stronger and better able to prevent re-injury.