Doctors of Chiropractic medicine (D.C.s) realign the spine with easy, manual thrusts to move the spinal vertebrae back to their normal positions to release pressure from the nerves. A chiropractor will sometimes adjust the joints of the neck, arms, and legs. Spinal adjustments may relieve a spectrum of ailments such as certain types of migraines, headaches, menstrual cramps, allergies, asthma, stomach disorders, spastic colon, TMJ, and arm, hand, and leg pain that’s due to dysfunction of the neck or lower back. Some patients with asthma and emphysema have turned to chiropractic medicine to release tension in the chest. Research is also helping to determine if manipulation of the neck helps the ears drain properly, as a result alleviating ear infections that plague children.
Does Chiropractic Care Hurt?
Absolutely not. Most patients find the care gentle and soothing, and can hardly wait to begin their treatment plan.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe?
Yes, extremely. Especially when compared to the side effects from many medications.
Why is Chiropractic Care Important?
Chiropractic care is important for many reasons. In a child it allows their body to better deal with sickness and allows for better development as they grow. In adults it allows our bodies to be able to move better with less aches and pain. And, in the elderly it allows for more comfort thru increased movement and decreased pressure on nerves as the vertebra begin to wear down.
What Training Do Chiropractors Have?
Chiropractors are licensed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. A rigorous course of study is necessary to receive a degree of Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.). All state licensing boards require two to four years of undergraduate education, and completion of a four-year chiropractic college course. Doctors of chiropractic are trained in structural health and are highly skilled in spinal manipulation.
When you visit a doctor of chiropractic, you will know that your doctor is qualified to perform the procedures skillfully and safely and that your chiropractor is concerned about your health and wellness.
What Happens during a Chiropractic Examination?
A chiropractor will take a medical history, conduct physical, neurological, and orthopedic examinations. Chiropractors spend a great deal of time assessing posture, examining the spine, testing reflexes, joint motion, and muscle strength. X-rays and other diagnostic images are often used to locate vertebrae dysfunction and to rule out other disorders which require the attention of other healthcare experts.
The Insurance Company Wants To Settle, What Should I Do?
You should not sign or settle until you have had a Chiropractor evaluate your injuries. If you settle before your injury is fully resolved, you may will be completely on your own and have to pay out of pocket for your care.
Could I Be Injured If My Car Only Sustained Minor Damage?
Documented studies done by Charles Carroll, M.D., Paul McAtee, M.D. and Lee Riley, M.D. revealed that: “The amount of damage to the automobile bears little relation to the force applied to the cervical spine (neck) of the occupants.” Inlay terms, the damage to the passengers is not necessarily directly related to the damage to the vehicle.
If I'm In A Car Accident, Should I See An Attorney Before I See My Chiropractor?
It is important to get checked out by the doctor first, because the findings from your medical exam will provide you the information you need to decide if an attorney is necessary. If your exam indicates the need for an attorney, we can refer you to a reputable and qualified attorney.
Is Chiropractic Care The Right Choice?
A recent federal study by the Agency for Health Care Policy & Research concluded that spinal manipulation was one of the preferred early treatments for low back pain. Doctors may refer patients to chiropractors or work in conjunction with a chiropractor to provide patients optimal care. Many insurance companies cover chiropractic care, and hospitals are offering access and/or staff privileges to chiropractors.
I’ve Been To The Hospital, Do I Really Need to See a Chiropractor or MD?
You need a doctor who focuses on the treatment and diagnosis of auto accident injuries. Usually hospitals will check vital signs, make sure there are no life-threatening conditions and release the patient with pain relief medication. They normally do not treat the underlying improper musculoskeletal biomechanics that can and often do lead to future pain. If you are still having problems, you should get a second opinion. If your M.D. has given you pills, you must understand that pills do not correct structural or soft tissue damage. They either mask the symptoms or do not get to the cause of the problem. There are special therapies designed for that, and we offer these modalities at our office.
If I Need Treatment For This Automobile Injury, Do I Have To Pay For It Myself?
No, only in very rare circumstances does the patient pay for his care as he goes. Our office provides care with “no out of pocket cost” in most cases and we will wait until your case settles when you are represented by an attorney. Some car insurance policies have what is called “Med Pay.” This means that medical bills will be paid at 100% up to a certain limit. Our office can assist you in obtaining this information, and using your medical coverage should not raise your premiums.
