FAQ

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts based upon the understanding that good health depends, in part, upon a normally functioning nervous system (especially the spine, and the nerves extending from the spine to all parts of the body). "Chiropractic" comes from the Greek word chiropraktikos, meaning "effective treatment by hand" and is a non-drug approach to health care.

Does chiropractic hurt?

Under normal circumstances, adjustments don't hurt. The patient may experience a minor amount of discomfort during the adjustment which lasts only seconds.

Is chiropractic safe?

Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are extremely safe. The most commonly reported major risk factor in the medical field is that of vertebrobasilar complications (stroke). The risk factor is estimated to be in excess of one million to one.

What kind of education and training do doctors of chiropractic have?

Following an undergraduate education, doctors of chiropractic must successfully complete four academic years of chiropractic college. Chiropractors receive a comprehensive education that emphasizes neuromuscular diagnosis and treatment. Preparation for the practice of chiropractic is concentrated on three areas of learning: basic training in the biological and health sciences (anatomy, physiology, histology, biochemistry, clinical and radiological diagnosis); specialized training in the chiropractic discipline (theoretical studies, practice, diagnosis and applications); and extensive clinical training.

Have any studies been published showing what chiropractic is effective for?

Several studies have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in relieving back pain. Recent studies have also shown chiropractic adjustments to be effective in treating other areas such as migraine headaches.

What can I expect on my first visit?

The first thing a chiropractor will do is ask you about the health complaints about which you are chiefly concerned. The doctor will also ask about your family history, dietary habits, other care you may have had (chiropractic, osteopathic, medical, etc.), your job, and other questions designed to help determine the nature of your illness and the best way to go about treating the problem.

A physical examination will be performed in accordance with your doctor's clinical judgement, which may include x-rays, laboratory analysis and other diagnostic procedures. In addition, a careful spinal examination and analysis will be performed to detect any structural abnormalities which may be affecting or causing your condition. All of these elements are important components of your total health profile, and vital to the doctor of chiropractic in evaluating your problem.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. We are contracted with most major insurance carriers including but not limited to: Blue Cross, Health Net, Aetna, Cigna, and Kaiser Permanente. As most people are aware, there are as many different types of coverage as there are insurance carriers. Allow us to help you determine your coverage.