FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ ABOUT CHIROPRACTIC CARE

Q: What is a Chiropractor?
A: A Chiropractor is a licensed primary care physician who’s role is to detect and correct interferences within the human body, with the goal of finding the root cause of the problem and restoring health through natural means. The primary method of treatment used by chiropractors is hands on manipulation to the various joints, muscles and tissues of the body, A chiropractor may utilize other means of treatment including, acupuncture, physiotherapy modalities, nutritional supplementation and rehabilitation exercises. Under a Chiropractor’s license any necessary form of diagnostic testing including: X-ray, MRI, CT scans and laboratory studies are permitted, but a chiropractor is not licensed to prescribe medication or perform any surgical procedures.


Q: Is Chiropractic Safe?
A: Chiropractic is extremely safe for people of all ages and has been found to be one of the most effective forms of complementary health care. According to a 1993 Ontario Ministry of Health commissioned study, when performed by a chiropractor, spinal manipulation is one of the safest and most effective treatments for neck and back problems.

Unfortunately, since its early days, chiropractic has had its share of critics. In an attempt to monopolize the health care market, other medical professions have conspired against chiropractic by manipulating the public into thinking chiropractic treatments were dangerous and unsafe. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) of the US Department of Health and Human Services released these important findings on Clinical Practice Guidelines for the management of acute low back pain. The results were as follows:

  • The risk of serious complications from lumbar spinal manipulation is rare
  • Conservative treatment such as spinal manipulation should be pursued in most cases before considering surgical intervention
  • Prescription drugs such as oral steroids, antidepressant medications and analgesics are not recommended for acute low back problems


Acute Low Back Problems in Adults. Clinical Practice Guidelines. Bigos S, et al. Agency for Health Care Policy and Research Publication No. 950642 (1994) - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Q: Is Chiropractic Safe for Children?
A: A child just like an adult has a body that is affected by its environment. Most people are not aware that the birth process is one of the most traumatic events that happens to a young infant. During this process the doctor pulls the infant though the birth canal by the head and neck, using extreme force. This event can misalign the tiny vertebrae in a babies neck putting pressure on the spinal cord and delicate nerves. The only way to restore proper function to the child’s spine is through gentle chiropractic manipulation. The force required to adjust a child is delicate and usually light fingertip pressure is all that is necessary to make a correction in an infants spine. Chiropractic is a safe, effective addition to pediatric health care that should be a regular part of every developing infant, child, and teenagers life.

Q: What is That Popping Noise?
A:
When a chiropractor performs a spinal manipulation typically a popping noise is heard. This sound is believed to be caused by gas escaping from the joint. Every joint in the body is a fluid filled cavity surrounded by bones ligaments and tendons. Because there is a difference in pressure inside and outside the joint, when manipulated, gas is released and an audible noise can be heard. This phenomenon is similar to opening a can of soda. The pressure on the inside of the can is much greater than the outside, and when the seal is broken a popping sound is heard.

Q: Does an Adjustment Hurt?
A:
When performed by a skilled professional, chiropractic manipulation, can be accomplished in a virtually painless manner. There are several low force and manual techniques, each tailored to meet the individual needs of every patient. Just like beginning a new exercise program, after the initial treatment, some patients may experience minor soreness, but after continuing with their prescribed treatment plan, patients typically have tremendous relief from their initial pain and discomfort.

Q: Is it True That Once You See a Chiropractor You Will Always Have to Go?
A:
After patients receive relief from their pain, many choose to continue with a supportive care program to maintain their good health. Similar to visiting your dentist, regular wellness check-ups can help detect underlying conditions and prevent serious problems from occurring in the future. The amount of time a patient receives the benefits of good health through chiropractic care is a personal decision we leave entirely up to them.