Got a question about Chiropractic Care?
Click on any of these frequently asked questions to reveal the answer. Need more information than you can find here? Call us, or send in your question using the form on this page.
Q: What will my treatment plan consist of and how long will it last?
A: Each treatment plans is specific to each patient and condition; yours will be created with your specific needs in mind. We believe education and self management procedures can decrease your office visits and reoccurrence of injury. Treatment often blends manual procedures such as manipulation, soft tissue techniques and activity modification/education with progression of an exercise program specific to your condition. Duration of treatment is typically 1-2 weeks along with a detailed home instruction.
Q: I don’t want to be adjusted. Is this a necessary part of the treatment?
A: Every patient is unique. Spinal manipulation may be indicated for certain conditions, but are not absolutely necessary. The signature treatment is the education you will receive about the spectrum of treatment options that are recommended for you.
Q: How long is the typical visit?
A: Usually 50 to 60 minutes.
Q: Do you offer massage therapy?
A: Soft tissue massage is an integral part of most treatment programs. However, the goal of care is to get to the cause of your pain and the massage is mostly utilized for palliative relief.
Q: How long does it usually take to get better from a back pain episode?
A: About 80% of people with lower back pain are 80% better within 2-4 weeks.
Q: If I have sciatica do I need surgery?
A: If your sciatica is persisting for 2-3 month then you are possibly a surgical candidate. If it is causing progressive muscle weakness you would be a surgical candidate even sooner. If you have any bowel or bladder incontinence or both legs are “giving way” then a more urgent surgical consultation is required. However, 90% of people with sciatica will improve with conservative care.
Q: If my M.R.I. shows a herniated disc can you help me?
A: Herniated discs are very common. It has been found that they are present in people who have no symptoms – even 20 year olds! Experts now say that spinal changes such as herniated discs and arthritis are related to age (like graying hair or wrinkling skin) not symptoms. It appears that the difference between a person with a herniated disc who has no symptoms and one who has symptoms has to do with how their body is coping or stabilizing their back. We specialize in enhancing your functional ability to stabilize your back so that the disc bulge is not as relevant.
Q: If I have had back or neck surgery can I see you post-operatively?
A: Yes. We see many patients after their surgery. We work closely with each surgeon so we can forge a team approach to the timing and intensity of your rehabilitation program.
Q: Can you help with a pinched nerve?
A: Yes. Pinched nerves in the neck or low back cause arm or leg symptoms such as numbness, tingling or weakness. We will perform the necessary examination to diagnose this condition. The first line of treatment includes ergonomic or lifting advice, physical therapy, and exercise. Often anti-inflammatory medicine prescribed by your medical physician is important too. About 20% of the time pinched nerve symptoms worsen in the first month or fail to resolve over a 1 to 3 month period. Such cases require additional testing such as with an M.R.I. and more invasive treatments such as epidural injections or surgery. We will make appropriate referrals in these instances.
Q: Are x-rays mandatory for patient care?
A: No. We recognize the significance x-rays (and other various diagnostic tests) and will refer patients whose history and physical exam clinically indicates the need for further investigation to a trusted facility.
