Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic
How do I know if I have a subluxation?
Can subluxations clear up on their own?
Are Chiropractic adjustments safe?
Will adjustments make my spine too loose?
What makes the sound during adjustment?
Are all patients adjusted the same way?
How many adjustments will I need?
Why do newborns get adjustments?
Can I have chiropractic care after back surgery?
Can patients with osteoporosis get chiropractic care?
How long will I need chiropractic care?
What is a Subluxation?
You may have come across the term Subluxation in relation to chiropractic. In simplest terms, a Vertebral Subluxation is when one or more of the bones of your spine (vertebrae) move out of position and create pressure on, or irritate spinal nerves. Spinal nerves are the nerves that come out from between each of the bones in your spine. This pressure or irritation on the nerves then causes those nerves to malfunction and interfere with the signals traveling over those nerves.
How do I know if I have a subluxation?
You can have subluxations and not even know it. Like the early stages f tooth decay or cancer, they can be present before warning signs appear. A thorough examination will reveal the location and severity of any subluxations you may have.
Can subluxations clear up on their own?
Sometimes. Todays hectic lifestylesare a constant source of subluxations. Fortunately, our bodies have the ability to self-correct many of these problems as we bend and stretch, or when we sleep at night. When subluxations don't resolve, you need to call us!
What's an Adjustment?
Chiropractic adjustments usually involve a quick thrust that helps add motion to spinal joints that aren't moving right. Some methods use the Doctor's hands, others use an instrument, a special table or the force of gravity. There are many ways to adjust the spine.
Are Chiropractic adjustments safe?
Yes. A New Zealand government study found that adjustments are "remarkably safe". By avoiding drugs and risky surgery, chiropractic care enjoys an excellent track record. A thorough exam can identify the rare person for whom chiroractic care might be unsuitable. Compare the statistics: Adjustments are about 100 times safer than taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Will adjustments make my spine too loose?
No. Only the joints that are 'locked up' recieve adjustments. This allows weakened muscles and ligaments to stabalize and heal.
Can the bones move too much?
Highly unlikely. A
chiropractic adjustment is special. It has the right amount of energy, delivered to an exact spot, at a precise angle, at just the right time. The intent is to get a 'stuck' spinal joint moving again, helping to reduce nerve interference. Years of training, practice and experience make chiropractic adjustments specific and safe.
What makes the sound during adjustment?
Lubricating fluids seperate the bones of each spinal joint. Some adjusting methods can produce a sound when the gas and fluids in the joint shift. Its much like aopening a bottle of champagne or removing a suction cup. The sound is not a guide to the quality or value of the adjustment.
Are all patients adjusted the same way?
No. Each patient's spine and care plan is unique. With 24 moving bones in the spine, each of which can move in seven different directions, we see a wide variety of spinal patterns. Each patient's care is custom-tailored for his or her age, condition and health goals.
How many adjustments will I need?
The number of adjustments varies with each patient and his or her individual health goals. Many patients sense the progress within a week or two of frequent visits. Visits become less often as your spine stabilizes. In chronic cases, complete healing can take months or even years.
Can I adjust myself?
No. Some people can make themselves 'pop', but thats not an adjustment! Worse, damage can occur by mobilizing a joint with weakened muscles and ligaments. Adjustments are specific and take years to master.
Why do newborns get adjustments?
Even today's 'natural' childbirth methods can affect an infant's spine. Preliminary studies suggest that colic,unusual crying, poor appetite, ear infections or erratic sleeping habits can be signs of spinal distress. Pediatric adjustments are gentle. Knowing exactly where to adjust, the doctor applies no more pressure than you'd use to test the ripeness of a tomato.
Can I have chiropractic care after back surgery?
Yes. Rest assured that your chiropractic doctor will avoid the surgically modified areas of your spine. Surgery often causes instability above or below the involved level. These areas will be the focus of your chiropractic care.
Can patients with osteoporosis get chiropractic care?
Of course. When developing a care plan, your chiropractic doctor considers the unique circumstances of each patient. There are many ways to adjust the spine and the method selected will be best suited to you.
How long till I feel better?
Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others discover 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, excercise and nutrition? Do you smoke? Within a short period of time, most patients sense enough progress to fully carry out their doctors' recommendations.
How long will I need chiropractic care?
After patients get the relief they want, many choose to continue with some type of periodic care. These visits can help support the final stages of healing and help detect and resolve new problems before they become serious. Our job is to offer the very best care and you decide how much of it you want.
Will I ever be normal again?
Patient results vary. Many report improved spinal curves and the total resumption of their normal lifestyles. Those who neglected or delayed seeking care often see slower progress. After improvement, many patients discover that periodic chiropractic checkups can help avoid a relapse.