What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is based on the scientific fact that your body is a self-regulating, self-healing organism controlled by the brain, spinal cord and nerves. The 24 bones of the spine, or vertebrae, surround and protect the spinal cord and nerves. When misaligned, or subluxated, the vertebrae can interfere with the nervous system, causing pain and dysfunction.
As chiropractors, our objective is to analyze the spine, locate and correct these vertebral subluxations. The chiropractic method of correction is by specific adjustments of the spine, which are intended to correct vertebral subluxations over time, thereby allowing the innate (inborn) healing abilities of the body to work at maximum efficiency.
What is an adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a carefully directed and controlled pressure applied to a spinal joint that is subluxated, or not moving properly. The chiropractic adjustment removes subluxations and restores motion to the joints, helping the bones of the spine gradually return to a more normal position and motion. With improved position and motion, there is decreased interference with the nervous system, increased communication within the body, and improved overall balance.
After many years of training, a chiropractor is an expert at using the correct amount of force in the correct direction. Some adjustments may require a quick movement, and others involve slow and constant pressure. After a thorough examination, Dr. Kathy determines which technique will work best for you.
What conditions can chiropractors treat?
Chiropractors do not treat conditions, nor do they cure disease! Chiropractors adjust vertebral subluxations to remove interference from the nervous system. With a properly functioning nervous system, your body is able to heal itself. Chiropractors do not chase symptoms; they look for the cause of the problem so the symptoms do not return. From sports injuries to prenatal care, the goal is always the same - to adjust spinal subluxations allowing the body to heal itself and function more efficiently.
How old do you have to be to see a chiropractor?
Chiropractic is safe and effective for people of all ages, from newborns to senior citizens. Each person is unique, so Dr. Kathy will design a care program specific for your age, condition, and lifestyle. She has adjusted newborns minutes after birth, has a large family practice and has even had four generations of a family in one adjusting room!
How much education do Doctors of Chiropractic need?
After completing their undergraduate education, chiropractors receive an additional four years of post-graduate education with a one-year internship to become a Doctor of Chiropractic. Their education curriculum is similar to medical school and there is special emphasis on anatomy, physiology, neurology, biomechanics, nutrition, X-ray, and spinal adjusting techniques. To become a licensed chiropractor, he or she must pass a demanding four-part National Board Examination and then a State Board examination for the state in which they wish to practice. A chiropractor’s education never stops, as yearly continuing education is required for license renewal.
Is chiropractic safe?
Yes, chiropractic care is a safe and conservative form of health care. Since chiropractors do not prescribe medication or perform surgery there are no dangerous side effects. According to a New Zealand government’s inquiry, chiropractic care is “remarkably safe.” People of all ages, from newborns to senior citizens, enjoy the benefits of this natural approach to promoting good health.
How long will it take me to get better?
It is difficult to predict how your body will react to adjustments. Correcting a spinal problem depends on several factors including how long the problem has been around and your current lifestyle. Your body will heal as quickly as it wants to, and sometimes that takes time. Some patients may require ongoing supportive care for optimum spinal function, while others find that periodic checkups help keep them in balance and maintain better health.
Can I adjust myself?
It is virtually impossible to adjust yourself because a chiropractic adjustment is a specific force applied in a specific direction to one area in the spine. Even a chiropractor cannot adjust him or herself. It is possible to bend or twist and hear and feel a “popping” along the spine. This is a general movement, however, that may help release pressure but is usually counterproductive and can create areas of instability. The best way to adjust the spine is to see a doctor of chiropractic. There is a reason they went through all of that schooling!
Is chiropractic care expensive?
No, chiropractic care can be relatively inexpensive. Your insurance may cover chiropractic care. Or, if you are without health insurance coverage, there is no charge for the consultation and we have affordable prices depending on the level of care that you may need.
Will my health insurance cover chiropractic care?
Many insurance groups cover chiropractic care. If you have health insurance, bring your card with you and we can contact the company to verify benefits. Once we have verified that you have coverage, we can bill your insurance for you. Auto insurance may cover you for any auto-related injuries.
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