Chiropractic Patient FAQs

 

Should I tell my primary doctor that I am receiving chiropractic treatment?

Patients are encouraged to inform their medical care providers that they are receiving chiropractic treatment. As a courtesy, we will gladly forward a copy of your initial evaluation report to your primary care physician. The key to comprehensive care is communication. 

 

How long does it take to receive a treatment?

Most treatment sessions require between 15-45 minutes; depending upon the depth and scope of care necessary.  The initial examination typically lasts anywhere from 45-90 minutes, depending on the complexity of a patient's condition, and whether a treatment is received immediately after the initial evaluation. 

 

How long will it take to to feel better? 

Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others discover that it can take many weeks or months. Many factors can affect the healing process. How long have you had your problem? Are you keeping your appointments? Are you getting the proper rest, exercise and nutrition? Are you in good condition?   One of the key factors is: Patients who take an active role in their care and follow the doctor's recommendations generally achieve results faster and are able to maintain them longer than those patients who don't.  

 

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

The chiropractic adjustment is also referred to as joint manipulation. The doctor will apply her hands to an area to be treated in such a way as to mobilize, or move, the joints. Most commonly, the doctor will apply a quick, short manual movement to the joint. The joint usually elicits an audible "popping" or "cracking" noise, and you may sense movement of the joint. The popping noise is not necessary for treatment to be successful.

The goals of the chiropractic adjustment are to : 

• Increase the joint mobility / range of motion
• Relieve pain
• Reduce muscle spasm
• Restore optimal joint function

  

What is the popping noise that occurs during an adjustment?

Your joints contain a fluid known as synovium.  The synovial fluid contains dissolved gasses; mostly carbon dioxide.  When a joint is adjusted, a vacuum is created within the joint and the dissolved gasses come out of solution, forming a gas bubble.  This vacuum creates a "pop".

 

Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?

Chiropractic adjustments rarely cause discomfort. However, patients may sometimes experience mild soreness or aching following treatment (as with some forms of exercise) that usually resolves within 12 to 48 hours. 

 

Is it true that once you have chiropractic treatment, you must keep going back?

No.  The Dr will put you on an initial treatment plan, usually varying anywhere from 2-6 weeks, depending on your condition and frequency of visits.  In this time, you should be seeing improvement.  After the initial treatment period is over, the Dr will then reevaluate if you will need future care or not.  Many patients elect to continue their chiropractic treatment after feeling well.  Why?  Because periodic elective "maintenance care" makes them feel better and may prevent future relapsing.  Maintenance care may mean once a week to one person or once every 6 months for another.  It's important for you to stay in tune with your body so you can figure out what works best for you.   

 

Can patient's with osteoporosis receive chiropractic treatment?

Yes. When developing a care plan, your doctor will consider the unique circumstances of each patient. There are many ways to adjust the spine. The method selected will be best suited to your age, size and condition.

 

Can I have chiropractic care after back surgery?

Yes. Rest assured that your doctor will avoid the surgically modified area of your spine. Surgery often causes instability above and below the involved area. These areas will be the focus of your chiropractic care. It's important to rehabilitate the spine following surgery. The fact that you had surgery indicates there was a weakened area. In order to reduce the risk of having additional surgeries, it is important to strengthen the weakened area of the spine through proper rehabilitation.

 

Is chiropractic treatment safe?

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.

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. Minor discomfort or soreness following joint manipulation typically fades within 48 hours.