Frequently Asked Questions

  
 

What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is based on the scientific fact that your body is a
self-regulating, self-healing organism controlled by the brain, spinal
cord and nerves. The 24 bones of the spine, or vertebrae, surround
and protect the spinal cord and nerves. When misaligned, or
subluxated, the vertebrae can interfere with the nervous system,
causing pain and dysfunction.

As chiropractors, our objective is to analyze the spine, locate and
correct these vertebral subluxations. The chiropractic method of
correction is by specific adjustments of the spine, which are
intended to correct vertebral subluxations over time, thereby
allowing the innate (inborn) healing abilities of the body to work at
maximum efficiency.

What is an Adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a carefully directed and controlled
pressure applied to a spinal joint that is subluxated, or not moving
properly. The chiropractic adjustment removes subluxations and
restores motion to the joints, helping the bones of the spine
gradually return to a more normal position and motion. With
improved position and motion, there is decreased interference
with the nervous system, increased communication within the
body, and improved overall balance.

After many years of training, a chiropractor is an expert at using
the correct amount of force in the correct direction. Some
adjustments may require a quick movement, and others involve
slow and constant pressure. After a thorough examination, we
determine which technique will work best for you.

What conditions can chiropractors treat?
Chiropractors do not treat conditions, nor do they cure disease!
Chiropractors adjust vertebral subluxations to remove interference
from the nervous system. With a properly functioning nervous
system, your body is able to heal itself. Chiropractors do not chase
symptoms; they look for the cause of the problem so the symptoms
do not return. From sports injuries to prenatal care, our goal is
always the same - to adjust spinal subluxations allowing the body
to heal itself and function more efficiently.

Do you have to be a certain age to see a Chiropractor?
Chiropractic is safe and effective for people of all ages, from
newborns to senior citizens. Each person is unique, so we will design
a care program specific for your age, condition, and lifestyle. We
have adjusted newborns minutes after birth, have a large family
practice and have had four generations of a family in one
adjusting room!

How much education do Doctors of Chiropractic need?
After completing their undergraduate education, chiropractors
receive an additional four years of post-graduate education and
a one-year internship to become a Doctor of Chiropractic. Their
education curriculum is similar to medical school and there is
special emphasis on anatomy, physiology, neurology, biomechanics,
nutrition, X-ray, and spinal adjusting techniques. To become a
licensed chiropractor, he or she must pass a demanding four-part
National Board Examination and then a State Board examination
for the state in which they wish to practice. A chiropractor’s
education never stops, as yearly continuing education is required
for license renewal.

Can I adjust myself?
It is virtually impossible to adjust yourself because a chiropractic
adjustment is a specific force applied in a specific direction to one
area in the spine. Even a chiropractor cannot adjust him or herself.
It is possible to bend or twist and hear and feel a “popping” along
the spine. This is a general movement, however, that may help
release pressure but is usually counterproductive and can create
areas of instability. The best way to adjust the spine is to see a
doctor of chiropractic.
There is a reason they went through all of that schooling!

Is chiropractic care expensive?
No, chiropractic care can be relatively inexpensive. Your insurance
may cover chiropractic care. Or, if you are without health insurance
coverage, there is no charge for the consultation and
X-rays start at $45.

How long will it take me to get better?
It is difficult to predict how your body will react to adjustments.
Correcting a spinal problem depends on several factors including
how long the problem has been around and your current lifestyle.
Your body will heal as quickly as it wants to, and sometimes that
takes time. Some patients may require ongoing supportive care
for optimum spinal function, while others find that periodic
checkups help keep them in balance and maintain better health.

How will the adjustment help me? Chiropractic adjustments by themselves do not actually heal the body. When any of the 24 moveable spinal vertebrae become misaligned, a basic imbalance or disruption can occur in the nervous and blood vascular systems, which may contribute to stress in the body. Chiropractic adjustments help eliminate that imbalance or disruption so that the body can function at its true potential.

Does an adjustment have to make a noise to be effective? No, it is a common misconception that your joints must make a noise to be properly adjusted. However, more often than not when your vertebrae are adjusted, the smooth articular (joint) surfaces become separated, creating and then releasing a small vacuum, making a noise. This is the sound made when you crack your knuckles. Your chiropractor is concerned with the position of your vertebrae, not with the noise that may occur.

Should I go to a Chiropractor if I feel fine? Even if you feel fine, chiropractic care can help your body maintain its required level of health and fitness. Your chiropractor can recommend a preventive spinal-care program and advise you on correct posture, dietary information and back exercises. Regular spinal checkups can help detect and prevent spinal stress due to subluxations.

Is it true that Chiropractors do not prescribe medication or perform surgery? Yes. Chiropractors do not include medication or surgery in their treatment program. Chiropractors maintain that the body has a built-in capacity to restore health within certain limits, and base their care on this principle. Occasionally, the use of medication can interfere with the body's healing mechanisms, produce side effects, create a dependence and lead to drug-caused disease or complications. The first response in most illnesses and injuries should be conservative care. Chiropractic's principles make it possibly the safest and most appealing of the healing arts.

How does chiropractic care help the pregnant woman? Because of the additional weight and stress on the framework of the body in pregnant women, chiropractic adjustments can help lower the incidence of pain in the low back and legs, and between the shoulder blades. In some cases, fewer headaches and problems with nausea and elimination may also result. Many chiropractors care for expectant mothers in the regular course of their daily practices. It is wise, however, to first inquire about the experience of your chiropractor in caring for pregnant women and what he or she recommends for you.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Copyright Frigaard Family Chiropractic© 2008 all rights reserved
   
webmaster