CHiRO QUESTiONS
Are chiropractic adjustments painful?
Chiropractic adjustments, when performed by a skilled practitioner, are pain-free and may in some cases provide the patient with instant relief. Many patients experience a "popping" sound, which is attributed to a release of vacuum within the joint. This sound occurs many times and is completely normal. Movement of a joint also occurs when there is no sound.
I've heard that "cracking" your knuckles causes arthritis. Is this true?
No, on the contrary, when a joint is restricted from moving through its full range of motion, this fixation can accelerate degenerative change around the edges of the joint surface. Therefore moving a joint through its full normal range of motion helps prevent arthritic degenerative change. Though the frequent “cracking” of knuckles indeed can irritate the blood capillaries surrounding a joint making the knuckles appear read over time. The continual habit of nervously cracking one’s knuckles should be avoided for this reason.
What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is based on identifying restricted joint motion of the body and also observing asymmetrical alignments which hinder freedom of movement. Many times the restriction of joint movement can contribute to a misplaced disc thus becoming a primary factor involving back and limb pain. The nervous system relies on proper joint movement and freedom. Restoring more normal joint movement and function can make a big difference in a person’s health and well being.
Chiropractic is a drug-free approach to health care which focuses primarily on hands-on manipulation of the body’s particular joints. Helping a patient to maintain optimum joint movement and function is paramount in relieving the stresses experienced by most individual’s lifestyle. Chiropractors may choose to utilize additonal therapy such as traction, ultrasound, massage, and other various modalities to help loosen and help improve treatment. Many find that there’s a long history of nutrition and dietary advice provided by their Chiropractors. These simplified aspects of treatment have enabled Chiropractors to provide effective and important treatment to improve one’s personal health in a unique and natural method.
What is an adjustment?
When performing an adjustment, your doctor applies a precisely directed force aiming a joint that has been identified as being "locked up" or not moving properly, to release and move in a desired direction. Restoring normal motion to joints can allow bones to gradually return to a better position and can help your body to function as it should. This safe, natural approach can improve your overall health.
This is not to say, however, that all adjustments are the same. Just as chiropractors are different individually, so are their many techniques. Usually the doctor's hands deliver a quick and measured therapeutic thrust to the affected joint. Sometimes pressure points with other varied technique will require slow, constant pressure.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe?
Chiropractic has an excellent safety record. Chiropractic doctors are trained to practice and perform hundreds of manipulations before delivering them to a patient. To become a Doctor of Chiropractic, the candidate must first pass the demanding National Board Examination. Then, to apply for a professional license, the doctor must pass an even more rigorous test before earning the privilege to practice.
Guided by a thorough case history and examination, your doctor will evaluate your individual needs and determine a course of treatment.
What can I expect on my first visit?
After some office paperwork, the doctor will ask you about the health complaints with which you are chiefly concerned. He 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 or injury and the best way to go about treating the problem. A physical examination will be performed which may include x-rays or other diagnostic procedures such as an MRI may be ordered. In addition, a spinal examination and analysis will be performed to detect any structural abnormalities which may be affecting or causing your condition.
