FAQs

1. What is a chiropractic adjustment?

 

 An adjustment involves a controlled movement to a joint in a specific direction to restore proper movement.  There are various ways to adjust the spine and the technique used is specific to each patient.  (very gentle procedures are used for elderly people and children)

2. Can children and infants be adjusted?

 

Yes. Today's "natural" childbirth methods can affect an infant's spine. Preliminary studies suggested 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.

3. Can pregnant women be adjusted?

 

According to the American Pregnancy Association, chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe. Changes to the spine occur during pregnancy and can be helped with chiropractic care. All chiropractors are trained to work with pregnant women.

4. Can I have adjustments after back or neck surgery?

 

Yes.  The chiropractor will alter treatment to ensure that no stress will be placed on a vulnerable part of your spine.  Often times people find instability above and below the area where surgery took place.  These are the areas the chiropractor will focus on.

5. Can chiropractics help sports related injuries?

 

Yes. Almost every professional team now has a chiropractor on staff.  This is because chiropractic can be extremely beneficial for daily maintenance and improvement of stamina and flexibility, as well as for the treatment of sports-related injuries, aches and pains.  See your chiropractor today to determine how they can best treat your condition.

6. What causes the popping sound during my adjustment?

 

The sound is not your spine "cracking" or "popping" as some people think.  The sound is created by gas (in this case, nitrogen) rushing in to fill the partial vacuum created when the joints are slightly separated.  Not all adjusting techniques produce this sound.  In fact, some adjustments produce no sound at all.

7. Can I adjust myself?

 

No. Some people can make their joints "pop", but that is not an adjustment.  Adjustments are specific and take years to master.  Even your chiropractor doctor must consult a colleague to benefit from chiropractic care.

8. How long will I need chiropractor care?

 

The number of treatments required will depend on many factors.  For example, how long you have had the problem, how serious your condition is, your age, your overall health and fitness.  Every person reacts differently to treatment so it is impossible to predict how many you may need.  It generally takes a series of treatments for long-term changes to occur.  Your chiropractor will be able to give you a guide to the number of treatments requires after your initial exam.

9. Do adjustments hurt?

 

Usually no.  Chiropractic treatment is usually painless unless the area is inflamed (in which case the adjustment is modified).  You may hear "clicking" or "popping" when your joints are being adjusted - do not worry this is normal.  The sound is just a gas bubble being released from the joint.  You should feel more energetic after the adjustment, although you might experience some discomfort or stiffness for a day or so.  Your chiropractor will be able to explain all the side effects to you.  These are generally minimal.

10. Is chiropractor care expensive?

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Doctors of chiropractic provide effective, low-cost health care for a wide range of conditions.  Some insurance policies cover chiropractics.  It is best to discuss your insurance with your chiropractor, as well as contacting your carrier.