FAQ

What does a chiropractor do?

A chiropractor is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, with an emphasis on the spine. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to manipulate the spine and other joints of the body to improve alignment and relieve pain.

What is chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care can include manual adjustments, spinal manipulation, and other techniques such as massage, stretching, and exercise. Chiropractors may also provide advice on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle modifications to promote optimal health. They often work in conjunction with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to their patients.

The primary focus of chiropractic treatment is on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. Chiropractors believe that misalignments of the spine (subluxations) can interfere with the normal functioning of the nervous system, leading to a variety of health problems. By correcting these subluxations, chiropractors aim to improve the function of the nervous system and promote overall health and wellness.

Are chiropractors safe?

Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed and trained chiropractor. Like any medical treatment, there are some risks associated with chiropractic care, but they are rare. The most common side effects of chiropractic treatment are mild soreness or discomfort in the area that was treated. These side effects typically go away within a few hours to a few days.

Can I get chiropractic care during pregnancy?

Yes, chiropractic care can be safe and beneficial for pregnant women. During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes significant physical changes, including hormonal and biomechanical changes that can cause stress on the spine and other joints. Chiropractic care during pregnancy can help alleviate many of the discomforts associated with pregnancy, including back pain, sciatica, and pelvic pain. It can also help improve mobility and alignment, which can aid in the delivery process.

Chiropractors who specialize in prenatal care use techniques that are safe for both the mother and the baby. They may use gentle, low-force techniques to adjust the spine and other joints, or use other treatments such as massage, stretching, and exercise.

Why do adjustments sometimes make a popping sound?

The popping or cracking sound that can sometimes be heard during a chiropractic adjustment is actually the sound of gas bubbles being released from the joints.

The joints in your body are surrounded by synovial fluid, which helps lubricate and protect them. When a joint is manipulated or adjusted, it can cause a sudden change in pressure within the joint capsule. This change in pressure can cause gas bubbles that have formed within the synovial fluid to rapidly collapse, creating a popping or cracking so and.

The popping sound itself is not an indication of the effectiveness of the adjustment, and not all chiropractic adjustments result in an audible sound. Some chiropractors may use techniques that do not produce a popping sound, such as low-force techniques or instrument-assisted adjustments.

It’s important to note that the popping sound is not harmful and does not indicate any damage to the joint. In fact, the release of gas bubbles can often provide relief from joint stiffness or pain.

What type of education and training do chiropractors have?

Chiropractors are required to have extensive education and training before they can become licensed to practice. In the United States, chiropractors must have a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree, which typically takes four years to complete after undergraduate studies.

The curriculum for a chiropractic program typically includes courses in anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, radiology, and chiropractic techniques. Students also complete clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience in patient care.

After completing their education, chiropractors must pass a licensing exam in order to practice. In addition, many states require chiropractors to complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their licensure.

Is chiropractic treatment appropriate for children?

Chiropractic treatment can be appropriate for children under certain circumstances. Children may benefit from chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and sports injuries. Chiropractic care may also be helpful for children with certain health conditions, such as colic, ear infections, asthma, and scoliosis.

Chiropractors who specialize in pediatric care use gentle, low-force techniques that are safe and appropriate for children of all ages to help alleviate pain and improve function.