Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care

It is a specific, gentle force applied to a joint or spinal segment to reduce nerve irritation, correct alignment, increase range of motion, and improve mobility.

Chiropractors are known for their expertise in caring for patients with back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other spinal-related conditions. They also treat sports and automobile injuries and other disorders involving muscles, ligaments, and joints. The benefits of chiropractic care go beyond this and extend into general health and overall function.

Generally, no. Most adjustments are painless, and conservative adjusting is typically utilized in initial treatment. Chiropractors are experienced in a number of adjustment techniques, which can be modified to the comfort of each patient.

No, chiropractors are primary healthcare providers, and a referral is not necessary in order to make an appointment.

Yes, it is an effective, non-invasive approach for managing and preventing headaches and migraines related to spinal joint dysfunction.

Yes, chiropractic care is safe for all ages, including children and expectant mothers (expectant mothers should consult their OBGYN first for any patient-specific contraindications to chiropractic care).

Yes, chiropractic care is included in most health insurance plans, including major medical plans, workers' compensation, Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield plans for federal employees, automobile accident insurance, and military veterans.

Doctors of chiropractic are educated as primary healthcare providers, with emphasis on diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system (the muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints of the spine and extremities) and the nerves that supply them. Educational requirements for doctors of chiropractic are among the most stringent of any of the healthcare professions. The typical applicant for chiropractic college has already acquired nearly 4 years of pre-medical undergraduate college education, including courses in biology, inorganic and organic chemistry, physics, psychology, and related lab work.

Once accepted into an accredited chiropractic college, the requirements become even more demanding…four to five years of professional study are the standard.

Doctors of chiropractic are educated in orthopedics, neurology, physiology, human anatomy, clinical diagnosis including laboratory procedures, diagnostic imaging, exercise, nutrition rehabilitation, and more. Because chiropractic care includes highly skilled manipulation and adjusting techniques, a significant portion of time is spent in clinical technique training to master these important manipulative procedures. In total, the chiropractic curriculum includes a minimum of 4,200 hours of classroom, laboratory, and clinical experience. The course of study is approved by the Council on Chiropractic Education, an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Each patient’s care is unique and therefore customized to meet their specific condition and needs. Your chiropractor will modify adjustments based on your size, weight, age, and health condition.