Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions can be treated by a chiropractor ?
Chiropractors treat patients of all ages who experience a variety of medical conditions. While chiropractors are known for effectively treating back pain, neck pain, knee pain, foot pain and headaches, they can address a variety of injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, such as problems with muscles, ligaments, joints and tendons. Chiropractors can also provide counseling on healthy lifestyle, exercise, nutrition, lifestyle and occupational modifications. Chronic conditions, such as autoimmune problems, arthritis, bursitis and tendonitis can also be effectively addressed by chiropractor.
Does health insurance cover chiropractic care ?
It depends. Some health insurance plans do cover chiropractic treatment while others do not. Some plans will cover chiropractic care with the referral of a primary care physician. Check with your insurance plan provider to learn about your coverage benefits. Many health insurance plans and even Medicaid plans do cover chiropractic care to a certain extent. If your insurance plan does cover chiropractic care, check to see if there is a limit to the number of visits that are covered.
Is it safe to get chiropractic treatment ?
Yes. Chiropractic care is known as one of the safest natural therapies available for neuromuscular disorders. It is non-invasive and drug-free. There are small risks with chiropractic care as there are with any form of treatment, but those risks are minimal. Any soreness or discomfort following spinal manipulation usually subsides within 24 hours.
Can children benefit from chiropractic care ?
Children can actually benefit greatly from chiropractic care. Active children may suffer injuries from falls and sports. Chiropractors can adapt the care for the individual patient and they are highly skilled in the care of children. Chiropractors use a gentle approach to treat pediatric patients.
Can chiropractors practice in hospitals ?
In recent years, chiropractors have started gaining the privileges to admit and treat patients in hospitals. They also use outpatient treatment facilities for x-rays, scans, MRIs and lab work for non-hospitalized patients. The first time chiropractors were granted hospital privileges was in 1983. Most chiropractor care can, however, be done in the office setting.
What is the educational training of a chiropractor ?
After four years of pre-medical undergraduate coursework, a student may apply to chiropractic college. Chiropractic college consists of 4 to 5 more years of professional study focusing on neurology, physiology, orthopedics, clinical diagnosis, human anatomy, laboratory procedures, exercise, nutrition, diagnostic imaging and much more. So after high school, someone pursuing a chiropractic degree requires 8 to 9 additional years of education.
How is a spinal adjustment or manipulation performed ?
A chiropractor uses highly refined skills gained in chiropractic college in order to perform spinal adjustments. Typically using his or her hands but occasionally an instrument, the joints of the body are manipulated in order to restore the functioning of the joints. Manipulation can reduce joint inflammation and reduce pain. It is a highly controlled procedure that only on occasion causes discomfort. The manipulation is targeted toward the specific needs of the patient. Other joints can also be manipulated, such as shoulders, knees, ankles and necks. Chiropractors are thoroughly trained in all aspects of joint manipulation.
Why does manipulation cause a popping sound ?
When an adjustment is performed, the joint may release a gas bubble which in turn, causes a popping sound. Popping can cause minimal discomfort or may actually result in an immediate feeling of relief. It is similar to when people "pop” their joints, such as cracking knuckles.
How Should I Choose a Chiropractor ?
Oftentimes, you can get a referral from a friend, family member or another healthcare professional. Someone you know has used chiropractic service and can make a recommendation.
Does chiropractic care require ongoing treatments ?
Because of its personalized, hands-on approach, chiropractic care does require office visits. Sometimes several visits are required. When your chiropractor develops a treatment plan, he or she should be able to provide you with an estimate of the number of visits that are required.
Do I have to be referred to a chiropractor by my doctor ?
No. You may schedule an appointment with a chiropractor yourself. Some insurance plans, however, may require a doctor’s referral before they will provide full benefits for chiropractic treatment. It is suggested that you check with insurance company prior to scheduling an appointment. Your insurance company can tell you what protocol you need to follow to ensure you get maximum benefits on your chiropractic visits.
How does a chiropractor come up with a treatment plan ?
Every treatment plan is different. Chiropractors design treatment plans to fit the individual needs of the patient. You must be very detailed in describing your symptoms so the doctor can precisely treat the conditions accurately and effectively. The chiropractor will assess your medical condition and your overall health to accurately come up with a plan of treatment.
Why is chiropractic care effective ?
Chiropractic care is effective in the sense that it is all natural. No prescription drugs or invasive procedures such as surgery are involved. It basically is designed to encourage your body to expedite its own healing, which results in a better and more efficient recovery.
Who can benefit from chiropractic care ?
Anyone of any age can benefit from chiropractic care. If you suffer from any kind of musculoskeletal aches and pains, you can benefit from the treatment plan a chiropractor will establish for you. Chiropractors treat patients of all ages, from infants to senior adults. The treatment plan is based on the condition and the overall health of the patient. Therefore, those who need to be treated more gently will be treated in that way.
Can chiropractic care treat injuries ?
Absolutely. Chiropractic care is beneficial in the treatment of all kinds of injuries. Athletes who have been injured playing sports, people who suffer from ankle sprains and strains, torn tendons and ligaments, tendonitis and general soreness are all treated effectively by a chiropractor. With a personalized treatment plan, the chiropractor can help relieve pain and get your full range of motion back as quickly as possible.