FAQ
Q. Is chiropractic care effective?
Absolutely! Every year, more than 22 million people in the U.S. turn to chiropractors to improve their health and performance. Chiropractic is the fastest growing and the second largest primary care profession. There are numerous scientific studies demonstrating the efficacy of chiropractic care for a variety of conditions including neck and back pain, headaches and sciatica. Chiropractic care is not only effective but has been documented as superior in many areas of health care.
Q. Is chiropractic care safe?
Chiropractic is recognized as one of the SAFEST types of health care in the world. Chiropractic’s approach is drug-free and non-surgical, therefore eliminating two of the largest risk factors in the health care field. The British Medical Journal reported on a research study for low back pain that chiropractic is one of the safest forms of treatment available.
In comparison to allopathic medicine, which uses drugs and surgery as an integral part of treatment, chiropractic presents far less risk. Consider, for example, that in the United States an estimated 140,000 people die each year from drug-related reactions. And the risk of death due to gastrointestinal complications from taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen is 400 times greater that the complication rate for people who receive cervical manipulation, while the mortality rate for people who undergo cervical spine surgery is 7,000 times higher.
Human error is another factor that tilts the safety balance in chiropractic’s favor. In the United States, it is estimated that up to 98,000 Americans die yearly from medical errors — a doctor accidentally making the wrong incision, a nurse administering the wrong medication, and so on.
Q. What is a chiropractic adjustment and does it hurt?
Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are the primary methods of treatment used by a chiropractor. The purpose of the adjustment is to normalize structural function to reduce nerve interference as described in the vertebral subluxation complex. An adjustment is applied through the use of a specific force in a precise direction applied to a joint that is not moving properly. This adds motion to the joint allowing the bones to gradually return to the normal position and motion. Chiropractic adjustments are not painful, however there is an associated popping sound known as an audible release. This sound is gas being released from a joint much like plastic bubble wrap popping. There is nothing ‘cracking’ or ‘breaking’ as some patients would believe.
Q. How long will it take for me to get better?
Patient results vary depending upon many factors. How long have you had you problem? Did you keep all of your appointments? Are you getting the proper rest, exercise and nutrition? Are you in otherwise good health? The length of your care depends on the problem you have and its severity. For many patients pain relief occurs within the first few visits.
Q. Is chiropractic care expensive?
Chiropractic care is more affordable than physical therapy, surgery and many prescription drug protocols. It is also covered by most health insurers. If you do not have insurance, we offer affordable cash payment plans. Contact our office for additional details at 301-528-5477.