Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic

Whether this is your first visit to a chiropractor, or you are under wellness care, chances are you have a few questions about chiropractic.  The following are some of our most frequently asked questions.  If you have a question that is not addressed here, please feel free to ask!

What is an adjustment?
Are adjustments safe?
Will I have to have X-rays?
Is a pinched nerve and a subluxation the same thing?
How do I get subluxations?
Can subluxations clear up on their own?
Can I be adjusted too much?
Will the bones move too much and make my spine too loose?
Can I adjust myself?
How many adjustments will I need?
How long until I feel better?
Why do I see newborns and children getting adjustments?
What if my policy doesn’t cover chiropractic care?

What is an adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a quick, specific thrust that helps add motion to spinal joints that are not moving right.  There are many ways to adjust the spine.  Some techniques use the doctor’s hands, an instrument, or a special table. Back to top

Are adjustments safe?
Yes.  In fact a New Zealand government study found that adjustments are “remarkably safe.”  According to statistics, chiropractic adjustments are about 100 times safer than taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
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Will I have to have X-rays?
In most cases, the answer is yes.  X-rays are an important tool to help diagnosis your condition.  To see is to know, to not see is to guess, and we will not guess about your health.  If you have had x-rays taken within 6 months of your visit, we may not have to take any additional.  This is on a case-by-case basis. Back to top

Is a pinched nerve and a subluxation the same thing?
A pinched nerve is rare.  It is more likely that an adjacent spinal bone irritates, stretches, rubs or chafes a nerve.  This is what chiropractors refer to as a subluxation.  Subluxations distort the nerve messages sent between the brain and the body.  This can produce unhealthy alterations to the organs and tissues connected by the affected nerves. Back to top

How do I get subluxations?
There are three basic causes of subluxations.  Physical causes could include slips, falls, accidents, repetitive motions and improper lifting.  Emotions such as grief, anger, fear and stress can also cause subluxations.  The third cause is chemical.  This includes alcohol, drugs, pollution and a poor diet. Back to top

Can subluxations clear up on their own?
Rarely, if ever.  Once a spinal bone moves out of its original position, it will stay there.  Research has shown that it only takes three to four days for the brain to assume that this “new” position of the bone is permanent and the body will then start to compensate for the altered state. Back to top

Can I be adjusted too much?
No.  The purpose of an adjustment is
to remove interference from the nervous system and allow your body to work to the best of its ability. Back to top

Will the bones move too much and make my spine too loose?
No.  Only the spinal joints that are “locked up” or “stuck” receive adjustments.  This allows weakened muscles and ligaments to stabilize and heal.  Years of training, practice and experience make chiropractic adjustments specific and safe. Back to top

Can I adjust myself?
No.  Some people can make their joints “pop,” but that’s not an adjustment!  Spinal bones must be repositioned in a specific manner.  When people “pop” or “crack” their necks or backs, they are actually causing more damage by over mobilizing an area that already has weaken muscles and ligaments.  This can be very dangerous and lead to paralysis!  Even chiropractors must consult a colleague for an adjustment. Back to top

How many adjustments will I need?
The number of adjustments varies with each patient and his or her individual health goals.  Visits do become less often as your spine stabilizes. Back to top

How long until I feel better?
Some patients experience almost instant relief.  Others discover it can take many weeks or months.  Many factors can affect the healing process.  How long have you had your problem?  Are you keeping your appointments?  Are you getting proper rest, exercise and nutrition?  Most patients experience pain relief sometime before the twelfth adjustment.  How long will I need chiropractic care?After patients get the relief they want, many choose to continue with some type of periodic care.  This is a personal choice, and is different for each individual.  Dr. Jeff will go over his recommendations for you, and give you all the information you need to make an informed decision.  Our job here is to offer the very best care and your job is to decide how much of it you want! Back to top

Why do I see newborns and children getting adjustments?
The birthing process is one of the most stressful and potentially damaging events each of us will experience.  Studies suggest 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.  Back to top

What if my policy doesn’t cover chiropractic care?
Your health affects everything you do and everyone you know.  It is your most valuable possession.  Yet, each of us is free to place a different value on our health.  It’s convenient when an insurance company or third party helps pay the bill.  But be careful!  Don’t allow the profit motive of a huge corporation to make the decision for you.  Please speak with Tonja or Dr. Jeff to find out how we make chiropractic care affordable for just about anyone. Back to top