Frequently Asked Questions
To find the best answer to your questions please select a category below that best relates to your questions.
First Visit | Adjustments | Acupuncture | Scoliosis | Sciatica | Interferential Electro-Therapy | Superficial Heat | Ultrasound
What can I expect?
By consulting our office, you're taking an exciting first step toward better health. Chiropractic care is different. It is this difference that offers new ways to get well and stay well. We've helped a wide variety of people. So the first thing we off is hope. You'll receive plenty of that here!
Will I have to have X-rays?
X-rays and other types of images can be helpful. Pictures of your spine, especially after trauma, can confirm our other findings and make your care more precise. We can tell if we need them after completing our other examinations.
How long until I feel better?
Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others discover that the healing process can take months, sometimes years. Every patient recovers at their own pace. Factors which can affect the healing process include your age, your overall health condition, muscle tone, diet and ever your attitude.
When will I get my first adjustment?
It depends upon your complaint and how long it may take to study your examination findings. This is a clinical decision and varies from patient to patient.
Will I receive any medication for my pain?
No. Chiropractic doctors don't dispense drugs. Because we rely on natural methods, ask for directions on how to use ice to control any painful symptoms. Ice, when properly applied, can have an analgesic effect without the side effects associated with pain medications.
How does it work?
Spinal joints that are "locked up," fixated or not moving right can affect your health by "choking" or irritating nearby nerve tissue. Chiropractic adjustments add motion to these areas. This helps restore nervous system integrity and can improve the healing process.
What do adjustments feel like?
After the brief thrust, many patients report a sense of well-being or a feeling of calmness. Others feel improved mobility. Inflammation or muscle spasms may delay these positive effects. Chiropractic doctors excel at making adjustments comfortable and effective.
Are adjustments safe?
Yes. A New Zealand government study concluded that chiropractic adjustments are "remarkably safe." Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever is about 100 times more risky.
Will adjustments make my spine too loose?
No. Only the spinal joints that are "locked up" receive adjustments. This allows weakened muscles and ligaments to stabilize and heal.
What makes the sound?
Lubricating fluids separate the bones of each spinal joint. Some adjusting methods can produce a sound when the gas and fluids in the joint shift. It's like opening a soda can or removing a suction cup. The sound is interesting, but isn't a guide to the quality or value of the adjustment.
Can I adjust myself?
No. Some patients can make their joints "pop" but that's not an adjustment! Even your chiropractic doctor must consult a colleague to benefit from chiropractic care.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy.
An acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on the body. This activates the body's Qi and promotes natural healing by enhancing recuperative power, immunity and physical and emotional health. It also can improve overall function and well-being. It is a safe, painless and effective way to treat a wide variety of medical problems.
What is Qi and how does it travel?
At the core of this ancient medicine is the philosophy that Qi (pronounced "chee"), or vital energy, flows throughout the body. Qi helps to animate the body and protect it from illness, pain and disease. A person's health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of Qi.
Qi circulates through specific pathways called meridians. There are 14 main meridian pathways throughout the body. Each is connected to specific organs and glands. Meridian pathways are like rivers. Where a river flows, it transports life-giving water that nourishes the land, plants and people. In the same way, meridian pathways transport life-giving Qi to nourish and energize every cell, organ, gland, tissue and muscle.
When Qi flows freely throughout the body, one enjoys good physical, mental and emotional well-being. An obstruction of Qi anywhere in the body is like a dam, backing up the flow in on area and restricting it in others. This blockage can hinder the distribution of the nourishment that the body requires to functions optimally.
What can affect Qi?
Many things influence the quality, quantity and balance of Qi. Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, diet, accidents or excessive activity can lead to a blockage or imbalance of Qi.
Normally, when this imbalance occurs, the body naturally bounces back, returning to a balanced state of health and well-being. When the disruption to Qi is prolonged or excessive, or if the body is in a weakened state, then illness, pain or disease can set in.
What will my acupuncturist do?
During the initial exam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms, health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or imbalanced. After the interview process, you may receive an acupuncture treatment. Visits with your acupuncturist may last from 30 to 90 minutes.
Why do they want to feel my pulses?
There are 12 pulse positions each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for 27 individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse.
Why do they want to look at my tongue?
The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes. Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors: your constitution, the severity and duration of the problem and the quality and quantity of your Qi. An acupuncturists may suggest one or two treatments per week, monthly visits for health maintenance or seasonal "tune ups."
What should I expect during treatment?
Where the acupuncture needle has been inserted, you may experience a vague numbness, heaviness, tingling or dull ache. Sometimes people experience a sensation of energy spreading and moving around the needle. This is called the "Qi sensation." All these reactions are good and a sign that the treatment is working. After treatment, you may fell energized or may experience a deep sense of relaxation and well-being.
How should I prepare?
• Come with any questions you have--we're here to help you.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points.
• Don't eat large meals just before or after your visit.
• Refrain from overexertion, working out, drugs or alcohol for up to 6 hours after the visit.
• Avoid stressful situations. Make time to relax, and be sure to get plenty of rest.
• Between visits, take notes of any changes that may have occurred, such as the alleviation of pain, pain moving to other areas, or changes in
the frequency and type of problems.
Do the needles hurt?
The sensation caused by an acupuncture needle varies. Some people feel a little pain as the needles are inserted, but most people feel no pain at all. The needles are tiny, just a little larger than a cat's whisker or a human hair.
How deep do they go?
The depth of the insertion varies. For example, your acupuncturist will use a needling technique that is different in fleshier areas, such as your buttocks. Typically, needles are inserted at depths ranging from 1/8" to 1 1/2".
How safe is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects except feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded.
Is acupuncture safe for children?
Yes! In some instances children actually respond more quickly than adults. if your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure or Tui Na.
What type of schooling do acupuncturists get?
Today, acupuncturists receive 3 to 4 years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in every state.
What is Cupping?
Cupping is a therapy designed to stimulate the flow of blood and Qi within the superficial muscle layers. It is used for sore muscles, tension, neck pain and the common cold. In this therapy, your acupuncturist will place small glass or plastic "cups" over specific areas on your body. A vacuum is created under the cup using heat or suction. they may be moved over an affected area or left in place. You may leave the office looking as though a large octopus gave you a big hug. There is no need for alarm. The slight redness will quickly dissipate.
What is Gwa Sha?
Gwa Sha is another technique used to release muscle tension, tightness and constriction. A specialized tool is used to gently scrape or rub the skin over a problem area. Gwa Sha feels a bit like deep massage. This too may leave some slight redness that will quickly dissipate.
What is Tui Na?
Tui Na translates a "push grasp." It is a massage technique that moves Qi in various parts of the body. It is used to relieve muscle pain, tension and inflammation and to heal injuries.
What is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion is a treatment that uses an herb called mugwort. It may be burned on the handle of the needle, above the skin, or salt or on a slice of ginger. This is used to "warm" acupuncture points or areas in order to quicken the healing process.
Why did my acupuncturist recommend herbs?
Herbs can be powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They are used to strengthen build and support the body or to clear it of excess problems like a cold, fever or acute pain. Your practitioner may suggest starting with herbs and then adding acupuncture to your treatment in the future. This is suggested to build up your internal strength so you can receive the full benefits acupuncture has to offer.
Will my insurance cover acupuncture?
Insurance coverage varies from state to state. Contact your insurance provider to learn what kind of care is covered.
Here are a few questions to ask:
1. Will my plan cover acupuncture?
2. How many visits per calendar year?
3. Do I need a referral?
4. Do I have a co-pay?
5. Do I have a deductible? If yes, has it been met?
How much does it cost?
Rates vary and depend upon what procedures are performed. It is best to consult with your acupuncturist about costs.
What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems. Here is a list of a few health concerns that acupuncture has been effective in treating:
• Addiction - alcohol, drug, smoking |
• Facial palsy/tics • Fatigue • Fertility • Fibromyalgia • Gingivitis • Headache • Hiccough • Incontinence • Indigestion • Irritable bowel syndrome • Low back pain • Menopause • Menstrual irregularities • Migraine • Morning sickness • Nausea • Osteoarthritis • Pain • PMS |
• Pneumonia • Reproductive problems • Rhinitis • Sciatica • Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) • Shoulder pain • Sinusitis • Sleep disturbances • Smoking cessation • Sore throat • Stress • Tennis elbow • Tonsillitis • Tooth pain • Trigeminal neuralgia • Urinary tract infections • Vomiting • Wrist pain |
Can it be prevented?
Scoliosis is tragic. It causes both physical and emotional suffering. This sideways bending of the spine shows up as abnormal posture and then finally, deformity. If allowed to advance, it can interfere with the lungs, heart and many other vital organs.
Isn't a certain amount of sideways curvature normal?
Any type of sideways curvature is abnormal. From the back, the spine should appear straight. When scoliosis is present, there are usually two curves: a primary curve in one direction and a compensatory curve in the opposite direction.
Does a lack of calcium or carrying a heavy book bag cause scoliosis?
No. However, there are a growing number of authorities who believe uncorrected spinal damage from the birth process may be involved. Others suggest that using walkers to encourage early walking may be a culprit.
What's the best time for a scoliosis examination?
As with the case of many health problems, early detection can improve the likelihood of correction. Wise parents consult our office son after the birth of their child. Then they follow up with periodic chiropractic checkups throughout their child's developing years.
How will I get relief?
Sciatica can be a distracting pain that starts in the lower back and extends down into one or both legs. Chiropractic care has proven to be quite helpful.
How do you get sciatica?
It's easy to trace some spinal problems to an event, such as a car accident. Yet, sciatica is often the result of cumulative damage. Years of bad posture, poor muscle tone, excess weight or countless other causes set the state. Then, something simple like bending over to tie your shoes can trigger an episode.
Can anything else cause sciatica?
Spinal decay can be another culprit. Instead of disc thinning that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve roots, arthritic bone spurs can intrude into the space normally reserved for the nerve.
Can chiropractic cure sciatica?
Actually, chiropractic doesn't cure anything! Only your body can do that. The chiropractic approach to sciatic (and other health problems) is to help restore the way your spine works, reducing nerve irritation and revitalizing your own healing ability.
How long will I need chiropractic care?
Most sciatica patients are delighted with the results they get after weeks or months of care. Naturally, this varies from patient to patient. Many discover that years of neglect have produced spinal instabilities that never fully heal. These patients elect to continue with periodic chiropractic checkups. It's up to you.
INTERFERENTIAL ELECTRO-THERAPY
What is Interferential Electro-Therapy?
It is a therapeutic treatment to aid in the relief of pain and the promotion of soft tissue healing.
How does it work?
Tiny amounts of electrical impulses are induced into the tissues in the vicinity of the injury. Where these waves intersect below the surface of the skin, a low-frequency stimulation is created. This prompts the body to secrete endorphins and other natural pain killers to help relieve pain.
What does Interferential Electro-Therapy feel like?
Most patients find Interferential Electro-Therapy to be extremely beneficial and describe the treatment as a fain "pins and needles" sensation.
Why would this type of therapy be used?
Interferential Electro-Therapy is most often used for pain relief and to aid in reducing the swelling of soft tissues. Ligament sprains, muscle strains and spasms often respond to this treatment, helping to reduce atrophy and increase blood circulation.
What is Superficial Heat?
Hot packs, warm moist towels, heating pads, water bottles and infrared lamps are often used to help raise the temperature of soft tissues directly below the surface of the skin.
How does it work?
Heat applied to the surface of the skin enlarges blood vessels below the surface, relaxing tissues and temporarily relieving painful symptoms. Increasing circulation and relaxing muscles is helpful before or after chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic exercises and other treatments.
When should Superficial Heat be used?
Heat is usually recommended for the relaxation of tissues in spasm and temporary relief of the symptoms associated with chronic pain and muscle tightness.
Why is Superficial Heat used?
Superficial heat is used to calm tissues suffering from long term spasms or irritation and is an easy way to increase flexibility, range of motion and promote increased circulation to speed the healing process.
What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a therapeutic treatment using high-frequency sound waves administered in the region of soft tissue injuries.
How does it work?
Sound vibrations, as fast as a million times per second, penetrate tissues deep in the body, creating a heat response. These vibrations and heat help break down and disperse unhealthy calcium and other hard tissue accumulations.
What does Ultrasound fell like?
The gel used to conduct the sound waves is at room temperature and may momentarily feel cool to the skin when it is initially applied. Most patients feel nothing, or a plea sent and relaxing sensation below the surface of the skin.
Why is Ultrasound used?
Ultrasound treatment can usually be administered directly to the area of complaint, penetrating deep into the body. The rise in temperature increases blood flow, relaxes muscle spasms, massages damaged tissues and speeds the healing process.