Chiropractic Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is an adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is the art of applying a precise force in a specific direction to a joint that is fixated and not moving properly, which may be irritating your nervous system. This restores motion to the joint, helping it gradually return to a more normal position and motion. The result of this safe and natural procedure is improved spinal function, improved nervous system function, and improved health.

Q: Does the adjustment hurt?

No. The adjustment restores the spine to normal function, thus eliminating or reducing the pain. Many patients report a profound relief of pain as well as a sense of well being following the adjustment.

Q: Is there a noise produced during an adjustment?

Actually, adjustments do not always produce a sound. Sometimes one does hear a “popping” sound. This audible release is the result of gas shifting in the joint, similar to the noise created by “cracking” your knuckles. This sound is painless and causes no harm.

Q: Is chiropractic just for back pain?

No! Chiropractic has been shown to be extremely effective in helping people with sore backs, but that is a small fraction of what chiropractors treat. A doctor of chiropractic is actually a “nerve” doctor. The nervous system controls every tissue, gland, and organ in your body. By allowing this system to function at its optimum level, chiropractic patients enjoy better overall health and well being. In addition to back pain, chiropractors treat conditions such as: asthma, allergies, ear infections, PMS, headaches, arthritis, muscle spasms, neck pain, TMJ (jaw joint pain), carpal tunnel syndrome, childhood scoliosis, sports injuries, whiplash, sciatica, and many others.

Q: Once I am treated by a chiropractor, do I have to keep going?

After a patient’s initial examination, a program of care is established between the patient and the doctor. How long you decide to benefit from chiropractic care is up to you.

There are basically three stages of chiropractic care:

• Initial Intensive Care – the primary focus is to reduce or eliminate your most obvious symptoms.
• Rehabilitative Care – the objective is to stabilize spinal function and promote a more complete healing.
• Wellness Care – regular chiropractic “check-ups” to maintain optimal health and prevent further problems.
• Wellness or preventative chiropractic care is similar to dental check-ups, eating wholesome foods, continuing with an exercise program, and other healthy habits. How much care you receive is ultimately up to you and to maximizing your healthspan.

Q: What is healthspan?

Lifespan is how long you live, Healthspan is how long you live healthy.

Q: Are some people too old or too young for chiropractic?

No! Chiropractic patients range in age from infant to over ninety years old.

Many childhood health complaints can be traced back to nerve interference somewhere in the spine. Spinal trauma can occur at birth. As a child grows, minor injuries associated with learning to walk, learning to ride a bike, and playing sports can impair spinal health. Parents often prefer chiropractic care for their children because it is safe, non-invasive, and children respondwonderfully to treatment.

As for seniors, many people are concerned about overmedication, prescription combinations, and a decline in mobility. Chiropractic care is safe for all ages and can be the key to healthful, enjoyable later years.

Q: Is it ok to see a chiropractor if I am pregnant?

Yes. Chiropractors are trained in special techniques for adjusting pregnant women. Because medications for pain are limited or excluded during pregnancy, the natural approaches of chiropractic are the logical choice for pregnant women.

Q:If I need x-rays, can they be done in the chiropractic office?

Yes. At Shiepis Clinic…

If you have a particular question, ask the doctors. If you would like more information about chiropractic care, please visit our Health and Research Articles