Chiropractic is the practice  of treating mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors are capable of helping back or neck problems by making precise adjustments to the body.

The adjustments made by a chiropractor are gentle but precise “pushes” or “thrusts” made by the hand or other medical instruments. These adjustments are made to help correct the misalignments in the spine. 

Yes. In fact, studies show that chiropractic care is one of the safest in the healthcare industry. While no health treatment is completely free of potential adverse effects, chiropractic doctors are only responsible for a very small fraction of medical malpractice cases, approximately one out of twenty cases. 

No. Adjustments made by a chiropractor feel great!

Usually a referral from an MD is not needed. However, you may have a health plan that requires a referral for insurance purposes. Contact your employer’s human resources to find out if this is a requirement for you. 

A chiropractor may provide acute, chronic, and/or preventive care, which could make a certain number of visits necessary. In contrast, a course of treatment from medical doctors often involves an established plan that is mainly conducted at home, like taking antibiotics. Your chiropractor will fill you in on the extent of treatment recommended and how long it should last for.

Doctors of chiropractic are first educated as primary-contact healthcare providers. They focus on diagnosis and treatment of the musculoskeletal system, which includes the muscles, ligaments and joints of the spine and extremities, as well as the nerves that supply them.  The typical applicant for chiropractic college must have already acquired nearly four years of pre-medical undergraduate education. 

Yes. Children are generally quite physically active and can experience different types of falls and blows from activities such as sports. These types of injuries may cause symptoms that can be helped by a chiropractor. And since chiropractic care is always based on each patient, in the cases of children, the treatment will be more gentle. 

Yes. Chiropractic care is included in most health insurance plans. This includes most major medical plans, workers’ compensation, Medicare, and/or Medicaid plans, and plans for federal employees. Remember, if you get into an auto accident, you must see a physician within 14 days of the accident in order for insurance to cover the cost.