F A Q 

What do Chiropractors treat?
Chiropractors are neuromusculoskeletal specialists.  Most agree that Chiropractic is an effective treatment for headaches, neck pain, whiplash, shoulder and arm pain, low back pain and leg and buttock pain.  In addition, it is of great benefit in treating postural faults and improper motion in the joints of the extremities.  Chiropractic is also used for many other disorders and to improve overall wellness.  It is important to realize that the course and effectiveness of treatment will vary as individuals themselves are different.
 

What should I do when I get injured?
Most injuries of the spinal region involve decreased movement of the joints and inflammation which affects the nerves as they exit the spine.  As a result, muscle tightness occurs around the area.  Due to the inflammation, initial use of ice is often recommended.  As well, treatment that includes stretching techniques, correcting postural faults and increasing the range of motion for the affected joint will be beneficial to most injuries.
 

What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a specific maneuver that is used to increase the range of motion at an affected joint (this joint is said to be restricted or subluxated).  The adjustment may create an audible release (popping noise, which is actually a release of gas from the joint) and it will decrease the irritation on the spinal nerves, which results in dissipation of pain.  There is also a reflex relaxation of the surrounding musculature.  The adjustment has local effects, but because nerves often travel to distant areas, the site of pain may not be the site of injury.  Examples of this referred pain include arm pain and headaches from the neck region and leg pain from the irritation of the nerves of the low back.
 

How can I prevent injury or re-injury?
1.  Daily stretching for the back and neck muscles and sit-ups for the abdominal muscles.
2.  Cardiovascular exercise (walking, biking, hiking, aerobics, etc.) for at least three, 20-minute sessions per week.
3.  Proper lifting techniques and posture when at work and at home.
4.  For some individuals, regular chiropractic treatment to prevent re-occurrence.
 

Once I go to a chiropractor, do I have to go for life?
There are two forms of treatment, Acute Care or Maintenance Care.

1.  Acute care
Is for those who prefer to seek treatment only when they feel it necessary.  They can decrease the number of treatments they require by maintaining a high level of health and fitness.

2.  Maintenance Care
Is for those who continuously put their body through stresses such as prolonged sitting/standing, frequent lifting and other procedures.  Others may or may not have these daily stresses but choose to seek regular treatment to catch any problems before they become too severe or to maintain optimum, overall wellness.
Many athletes are using chiropractic as a means of attaining their peak performance.  They seek treatments not only to prevent or take care of injuries, but also to ensure that every joint is moving optimally and that their body is ready for competition or training sessions.  The performance-enhancement use of chiropractic is not limited to competitive athletes and can inprove your performance in day-to-day activities.

The type of care that you require is a personal choice and we will gladly answer any questions that you may have in order to make this an informed choice.