Welcome
Chiropractic Care
What is it?
Biomechanical manipulation of the body (like the spinal manipulation done by chiropractors) can be traced to ancient medicine. Current chiropractic health care began in 1895. At its most basic, is the idea that the intimate relationship between the anatomy of the spine (the musculoskeletal system) and the central nervous system means that disorders or misalignments of the spine can have a negative impact on the nervous system and the body at large.
How can it help?
Chiropractors stress that identifying problems and restoring the spine to its proper structural alignment can relieve pressure on sensitive neurological tissue, reducing stress and pain and improving overall general health. While the many hypotheses of chiropractic care continue to be investigated, there appears to be firm evidence for chiropractic treatment for lower back pain.
What should I expect?
A visit to a chiropractor may not initially differ much in your perception from a visit to any other health practitioner. It's likely to include a consultation gathering your medical and case history, a physical examination, and may include both X-rays and lab analysis. However, treatment tends to be very hands-on. Chiropractors typically perform a chiropractic adjustment (also called "spinal manipulation") manually, using their hands to manipulate the joints of the body to reduce pain and restore function. Adjustment rarely causes discomfort, though some patients experience some mild soreness or muscle ache afterward which usually disappears after 12 to 48 hours. Chiropractors may also prescribe exercise, dietary or lifestyle changes.
Tips
What's that popping noise? Just like when you've cracked a knuckle, manipulation of a joint may result in the release of a gas bubble between the joints, causing a "pop." It may be noisy, but it's not harmful and shouldn't be painful.
Chiropractors do not use drugs or surgery in their practice, but may recommend consultation with another practitioner for these or other methods of treatment.
The majority of insurance plans include coverage for chiropractic services.