Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care

“Chiro”, in the word, comes from Greek, meaning “hand". A chiropractor is a doctor who specializes in hands-on therapy.

Yes, chiropractors are professionally licensed doctors. They complete a 4-year doctorate of chiropractic degree after obtaining a 4-year bachelor's degree. In addition to their degree, they must complete a series of 4 board certification exams to obtain their license to practice. Once license they are then required to complete required continuing medical education to maintain their licensure.

A chiropractor is medically trained to evaluate, diagnose, and appropriately manage neuromusculoskeletal conditions.

We often say “the right tool at the right time”. Chiropractic has been proven equal to, if not better, for managing common neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Evidence shows that primary management of common pain conditions, with chiropractic care is not only effective, but clinically recommended.

Chiropractic care has been classified as a very safe and effective first line option for pain management. The most common side effects are initial post-treatment soreness.

Chiropractic clinical guidelines recommend 6-12 sessions of initial chiropractic care for an episode of pain. Session frequency volume would appropriately be tapered or discontinued by the attending provider based on the initial response to the treatment trial.

Cost comparative analysis across multiple specialties has identified chiropractic as a high-value and low-cost option for pain management. It has been shown to be the lowest cost per episode of care in comparison to all specialties for spine pain management. A typical national average cash fee for a chiropractic session is around $50.

Common chiropractic techniques are manual and instrument-assisted spinal and extremity manipulation, soft tissue release therapies, home correct exercise and nutritional counseling, and various passive modalities including traction, e-stim, ultrasound, cold laser, and shockwave therapy.

Chiropractic are is guideline recommended for back pain related to pregnancy. It is not only safe, but extremely effective in managing pain during pregnancy.

Sciatica is most commonly caused by a disc issue in someone's low back. Chiropractic care is clinically recommended as first line treatment option for sciatic symptoms without overt progressive neurological deficits. Often, chiropractic care for sciatica, will include manipulative therapies to restore adequate mobility and alleviate neural tension on the sciatic nerve. Treatment will then progress to improving stability to the area and facilitate the body’s natural ability to self heal.in

Treatment approaches are catered to an individuals specific needs based on the initial clinical presentation and exam findings. It is not a one size fits all treatment, and modifications are often made by the attending provider based on a multitude of clinical and patient specific factors.

It is unrealistic to assume that a chiropractic adjustment or any other proposed treatment from another specialty would completely extinguish back or neck pain forever. The general nature of musculoskeletal pain is that can have a tendency to recur. Yes, the adjustment can be pain relieving short and long term, but I wouldn’t say it’s the magic bullet. More importantly, the knowledge of how to self manage these pain conditions, set realistic expectations, and to know when to seek additional help from a chiropractor is probably more beneficial than anything.

Removing clothing is not always necessary. When an area needs to be further assessed without cloth covering, the provider will always ask for permission and ensure the patient is comfortable.

Chiropractic care is clinically recommended not only for adults but for children as well.