Frequently Asked Questions

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts based upon the understanding that good health depends, in part, upon a normally functioning nervous system (especially the spine, and the nerves extending from the spine to all parts of the body). "Chiropractic" comes from the Greek word chiropraktikos, meaning "effective treatment by hand." Chiropractic stresses the idea that the cause of many disease processes begins with the body's inability to adapt to its environment. It looks to address these diseases not by the use of drugs and chemicals, but by locating and adjusting a musculoskeletal area of the body which is functioning improperly.

What conditions benefit from chiropractic care?

Although chiropractic is used most frequently to relieve low back pain, studies have found it to be effective for a variety of conditions, such as migraine or tension headaches, neck and shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and infantile colic.

Does Chiropractic hurt?

Under normal circumstances, adjustments do not hurt. The patient may experience a minor amount of discomfort during the adjustment, which lasts only seconds.

Is Chiropractic safe?

Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are extremely safe. The risk factor is estimated to be in excess of three million to one.

What kind of education and training do doctors of chiropractic have?

Chiropractors receive an education that emphasizes neuromuscular diagnosis and treatment. Preparation for the practice of chiropractic is concentrated on three areas of learning; basic training in the biological and health sciences (anatomy, physiology, histology, biochemistry, clinical and radiological diagnosis); specialized training in the chiropractic discipline (theoretical studies, practice, diagnosis and applications); and extensive clinical training.

Have any studies been published showing what chiropractic is effective for?

Several studies have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in relieving low back pain. More recent studies have shown chiropractic to be effective in treating infantile colic, and migraine or tension headaches.

What can I expect on my first visit?

The first thing a chiropractor will do is ask you about the health complaints about which you are chiefly concerned. The DC will also ask about your family history, dietary habits, other care you may have had (chiropractic, osteopathic, medical, etc.), your job, and other questions designed to help determine the nature of your illness and the best way to go about treating the problem.

A physical examination will be performed in accordance with your DC's clinical judgement, which may include x-rays, laboratory analysis and other diagnostic procedures. In addition, a careful spinal examination and analysis will be performed to detect any structural abnormalities which may be affecting or causing your condition. All of these elements are important components of your total health profile, and vital to the doctor of chiropractic in evaluating your problem.

What other services do you offer besides chiropractic?

Our office offers a variety of alternative health treatments, including exercise therapy, aromatherapy, massage, and nutritional consulting. The doctor also makes referrals for acupuncture, and to specialists in Pediatric Scoliosis and Orthopedic Surgery.

What are the standard objectives of Chiropractic?

1) To observe and practice every acknowledged rule of professional conduct in relation with my profession, my patient, my colleague, and myself.

2) I will keep an open mind regarding the progress of my profession, provided that this progression shall be confined within the boundaries of the Chiropractic Science, Philosophy, and Art.

3) I will serve my patients to the best of my ability, violating neither their confidence nor their dignity, and in my association with patients I shall not violate that which is moral and right.

4) I shall regard and refer to my fellow Chiropractor with honor, giving credit where it is due.

5) I shall improve my knowledge and skill, firm in my resolution to justify the responsibility which the degree of Doctor of Chiropractic symbolizes and imposes.

What is the chiropractic perspective on health and disease?

The chiropractic perspective on health and disease emphasizes two fundamental concepts:

1) the structure and condition of the body influences how the body functions, and its ability to heal itself; and
2) the mind-body relationship is instrumental in maintaining health and in the healing processes.

How does Chiropractic philosophy relate to other health professions?

Although chiropractic shares much with other health professions, its emphasis and application of philosophy distinguishes it from modern medicine. Chiropractic philosophy gravitates toward a holistic ("total person") approach to healing, which combines elements of the mind, body and spirit; and maintains that health depends on obedience to natural laws, and that deviation from such laws, can result in illness. The art and science of chiropractic has progressed significantly. Today, advanced diagnostic procedures, sophisticated equipment, scientific research, and the growing acceptance among other health care professionals, makes chiropractic a popular health care choice. The medical and chiropractic profession can function and coexist together, for the purpose of achieving the maximum health benefit of the patient.