Frequently Asked Questions
What is chiropractic care?
Chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those involving the spine. It often involves spinal adjustments to improve alignment, alleviate pain, and enhance overall function.
Is chiropractic care safe?
Yes, when performed by a licensed and trained chiropractor, chiropractic care is generally considered safe. Like any treatment, there are some risks, but serious complications are rare. Chiropractors tailor their techniques to the patient's individual needs and health history.
What conditions can chiropractic care treat?
Chiropractic care is most commonly used to treat back pain, neck pain, sciatica, headaches, joint pain, sports injuries, and postural issues. It can also assist with improving flexibility, reducing stiffness, and managing chronic pain.
How does a chiropractic adjustment work?
A chiropractic adjustment is a manual technique where the chiropractor uses controlled force to manipulate the spine or joints. The goal is to improve alignment, relieve pressure on nerves, and enhance mobility, which can help reduce pain and improve function.
Is chiropractic care painful?
Chiropractic adjustments are typically not painful. Some people may experience mild discomfort after an adjustment, but it usually resolves quickly. Chiropractors use techniques that are appropriate for each patient's condition and comfort level.
What is that popping sound?
The "popping" or "cracking" sound that occurs during a chiropractic adjustment is often heard when the chiropractor manipulates a joint. This sound is called cavitation, and it happens when gas bubbles in the synovial fluid (the fluid that lubricates your joints) rapidly collapse or form due to changes in pressure within the joint. While the sound of cavitation can be satisfying, it's important to note that it’s not required for a joint to be effectively mobilized.
How long does chiropractic treatment take?
The length of treatment depends on the condition being treated. Some people experience relief after just one visit, while others may require a series of treatments over weeks or months. Your chiropractor will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.
Can chiropractic care help with stress or anxiety?
While chiropractic care is primarily focused on musculoskeletal health, some people find that it helps reduce stress and tension in the body, which can have a positive impact on mental well-being.
Do chiropractors cause strokes?
There have been rare cases where a stroke was reported following a neck manipulation or adjustment. These cases are often linked to a type of stroke known as a vertebrobasilar artery stroke (VBA stroke), which is thought to occur when there is a tear in one of the arteries that supply blood to the brain. This is not exclusive to chiropractic care; similar strokes can occur due to trauma, like whiplash from a car accident, or even spontaneously without any apparent cause. Studies have shown that the risk of stroke following chiropractic neck adjustments is very low, with estimates often cited at 1 in 5.85 million adjustments. The majority of strokes related to chiropractic adjustments seem to occur in people who already have underlying risk factors for vascular issues, such as genetic predisposition or pre-existing arterial weaknesses.
Are chiropractors doctors?
Yes, chiropractors are considered doctors, but they have a different type of training than medical doctors (MDs) or osteopathic doctors (DOs). Chiropractors hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree, which involves extensive education focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, especially those related to the spine.
What type of training do chiropractors receive?
Most chiropractors complete a four-year undergraduate degree before entering chiropractic college, which is a doctoral program lasting three to four years. The curriculum at chiropractic college is comprehensive, covering subjects such as anatomy, physiology, neurology, radiology, exercise science, and chiropractic technique. To become licensed, chiropractors must pass five national board exams as well as a state licensing exam.