A Chiropractor looks for what's called a "Subluxation". A Subluxation is when a joint does not function properly or is misaligned; it causes tissue damage and inflammation, which will cause one of 3 conditions, pain, muscle spasm, and/or organ problems.
Does a Chiropractor prescribe medication?
No, by design, Chiropractors kept medication out of their scope of practice. Chiropractic is an alternative health care profession. Our profession wants to treat dis-ease of the body with a natural approach with the use of nutrition and a stress free nervous system. The body has a natural ability to fight dis-ease in the body if the body's immune function is strong. The doctor's scope of practice is in treating the body as a whole with nutrition, exercise and a stress free nervous system. If the chiropractor thinks you need medication he will consult with your medical doctor.
I've heard chiropractors "pop" your bones, is this true? What is the "pop" noise?
Chiropractors do not pop your bones. Chiropractors restore joint dysfunction. We look for joints in your spine and extremities (arms or legs) that might not be functioning to the fullest range of motion. These joints sometimes get "fixated" from poor posture over time, or trauma. Chiropractors will stretch the joint to break up adhesions or scar tissue within the joint complex. The noise you might hear is a combination of gases that come out of the joints which makes a "pop" sound. It is the same sound you hear when people "pop" their knuckles. This will give the joint more range of motion so a person has better function and less pain.
I have never been to a chiropractor before, what can I expect on the first visit?
The first procedure is to sit down with you and take an in depth health history and present complaint (where your pain is). The doctor will be able to tell you if he can help you or not. The doctor will do an examination to find out where your problem is, and what is causing the pain or organ dysfunction you are experiencing. The doctor might do some neurological tests, orthopedic tests, and possibly take x-rays of your spine if that is where your pain is coming from. Then the doctor will sit down with you to go over what he found on the x-rays and what your treatment options are.
Does insurance cover chiropractic care?
Yes, most insurance companies will cover all medically necessary health care. If you have pain, muscle spasm, and/or swelling anywhere in the body, that would be a medical necessity to receive chiropractic care. Some insurance companies give your employers the option to exclude chiropractic coverage from your policies and in that case your insurance policy will not cover chiropractic services. When you call in to us, we take all your insurance information on the phone. That gives us a chance to check your coverage as a courtesy to you. We will then let you know when you arrive for your first visit what your chiropractic coverage is.
Will the Chiropractor work with my Medical Doctor?
Yes, in fact most of my referrals are from medical doctors seeking help in treating their patients for musculoskeletal pain. Medical doctors have medicine which never cures the injury. The medicine is to make you comfortable while seeking the proper treatment for your condition. Your medical doctor wants you to be with as little pain as possible during this time. Medication is the quickest way to do that but treatment is extremely important from your chiropractor so your injury won't end up with any long term chronic pain. The chiropractor also uses therapies to ease pain too.
How Long will I Need to Go to A Chiropractor?
Different conditions warrant different regiments of treatment. When someone comes in with a fresh injury it will require a certain amount of care. The care will vary with severity of the injury, age of the patients and the patient's willingness to do their part of the treatment at home.
Can a Chiropractor order diagnostic tests?
Yes, if the doctor feels you need an MRI, CT scan, Ultrasound, or any test that will help him determine where your present pain is coming from, he will order the test for you after they discuss the reason why they think you need it.
Do I need a medical doctor's referral to come to your office?
No, Chiropractors are primary care physicians. All this means is you have the freedom to walk right into our office and your insurance will cover the expenses. There are some HMO's that will require a referral from your Medical Doctor. We will verify this and let you know before you show up for the visit and we will work with your doctor to get that referral in place so your insurance company will cover the care.
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