Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic supports the concept that maintenance of proper function of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems can provide for a better health.
Chiropractic is a form of health care that is drugless, non-invasive, and actively promotes health.
Chiropractic care is holistic, meaning that the entire body and a person's lifestyle are examined and treated.
When a chiropractor works with a patient, the cause of the patient's physical problem is addressed and lifestyle factors that may affect the problem (such as diet, posture, exercise, and others) are modified to speed recovery and prevent recurrence.
Chiropractic care uses natural health methods such as exercise, nutrition and diet, and lifestyle modification to promote wellness.
Education Required To Practice Chiropractic
Chiropractic graduates must have a minimum of six or seven years of college education. Chiropractic education's foundation is in the basic life sciences, including coursework in anatomy, physical and laboratory diagnostics, radiology, physiology, pathology, nutrition, and public health. In addition, chiropractic education involves a detailed study of clinical sciences as well as clinical experience.
In fact, chiropractic education is similar to medical and osteopathic education except that these practitioners emphasize surgery and pharmacology while Doctors of Chiropractic focus on the diagnosis of musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders and treatment through clinically and scientifically established conservative procedures.
What Is An Adjustment?
Chiropractic care is known (but not exclusively) for its use of the adjustment, sometimes called manipulation. An adjustment is a precise procedure in which the trained Doctor of Chiropractic exerts specific corrective pressure at specific places on your spine or other joints. When a thorough examination reveals joints that are not in proper function, adjustments are applied to correct joint alignment/mobility, relieve associated muscle and nerve tension, improve balance and assist healing. In most cases, adjustments are performed manually by the Doctor of Chiropractic.
What Can I Expect From Treatment?
You will be asked to complete a comprehensive health history, including past health problems, diet, exercise, occupation, and other information of importance. Examination may include palpation (examination by touch), x-rays, and range of motion, strength, neurological and orthopedic test.
Besides the adjustment, Doctors of Chiropractic may use physiotherapies such as electric muscle stimulation, ultrasound, moist heat, ice, massage, or others.
Your chiropractor will also take the time to counsel you about the prevention of diseases and the methods for living a healthy lifestyle.
You may not receive an adjustment at every appointment. The treatment you receive will be designed specifically for you - based on your symptoms and examination findings.
Your Progress
Your progress under chiropractic care will be carefully monitored. The subjective improvement as well as the objective findings will be noted, and your treatment plan will be modified to meet your changing condition. Communication with your chiropractor and other health care providers will be encouraged for your benefit.
What Information Should I Bring To My First Visit?
If you have already had tests (such as x-rays) regarding your problem, bring them and any reports to the Doctor of Chiropractic's office.
Be prepared to discuss: when the problem started; how long you have had it; what makes the problems worse or better; treatments you have tried so far and how well they worked; and any other information you believe is relevant.
Bring notes regarding comments or questions you want to ask the Doctor of Chiropractic.
If your health insurance company requires a referral before treatment, please obtain one.
Bring your insurance card and know the amount of deductible or co-pay.
The 3 Phases of Spinal Degeneration
Normal
In a textbook normal spine, the disc spaces are equal and there are no visible signs of degenerative changes.
Phase I
In Phase I of spinal degeneration, the alignment of the spine is altered; however, the disc spaces may remain normal. Symptoms and de-generative changes may be present. Nerve tissues become irritated.
Phase II
In Phase II of spinal degeneration, the alignment continues to deteriorate, and disc narrowing is present. Degenerative changes progress and bone spurs are present. Nerve tissues are irritated and begin to atrophy.
Phase III
In Phase III of spinal degeneration, the joint space is no longer visualized. Bone spurs progress to fuse the involved joint. Nerve tissue atrophy occurs.
