How does chiropractic work?

Chiropractic is a natural and non-invasive system based on the principle that with a little guidance, the body has the intelligence to heal itself. The chiropractic “adjustment” frees restrictions in the joints of the spine and extremities. When the “adjustment” is accompanied by work on the soft tissues, and followed up with specific, key exercises, the muscles and fascia which attach to the joints, and the nerves which travel with them, are able to regain balanced function.

 

What kind of conditions do you work on?

People commonly come in for treatment complaining of pain from head to toe: headaches, jaw pain, neck or back pain, rotator cuff (shoulder) injuries, pinched nerves which cause numbness or tingling down their arms or legs, stiff or tight muscles. They may come in after injuries such as whiplash from automobile accidents, or sports related injuries to the wrist, elbow, shoulder, hip, knee or ankle. Often people come in just because they want a “tune up” to keep feeling great.

 

What can I expect on my first visit?

During the first visit, expect to spend about 1 hour in the office. You will fill out forms about your health history and your current complaints.  We will discuss your complaints, and I will give you an examination. This examination may be different from any you have had before. Along with the orthopedic and neurological testing, I may perform a functional evaluation. I may observe your posture and ask you to perform simple tests which help me to understand how your nervous system and muscles are working. These functional tests give us a road map to relieve your pain, and guide you back to optimum health as quickly as possible. If you have had specific trauma, such as a fall or an automobile accident, I may send you out for x-rays. Otherwise, expect to receive a treatment on the first day you are there.

 

How long will follow-up visits be?

Usually visits last about 1/2 hour. Occasionally they may be a little shorter or a little longer, depending on your needs that day.

 

Wihat are your treatments like?  

My techniques are both gentle and effective, and include both “low force” and traditional forms of adjusting. This allows me to design the treatment to meet your individual needs without creating unneeded discomfort.  Before and after adjustments, I use soft tissue techniques and/or physio-therapeutic tools such as ultra-sound, cold laser therapy, ice, or heat, to relax the muscles and shorten your recovery time. We will discuss what treatments are appropriate for you, and you will have the final say regarding what I do.

 

How many treatments will I need?

That depends on what is wrong with you and how quickly you respond to treatment. It is always my goal to return you to  your optimal health as quickly as possible. As soon as you are able, you begin your rehabilitation exercises, and start taking control of your own healing process.