Here are some of the FAQ’s or frequently asked questions about Chiropractic:
- What Are the Basic Principles of Chiropractic?
- How Was My Chiropractor Trained?
- Why Should I See a Doctor of Chiropractic?
- What Is an Adjustment?
- Is the Procedure Painful?
- What Is the Treatment Course Like?
- How Long Will My Treatment Course Take?
- How Do I Know if Chiropractic Is for Me?
- How Is Chiropractic Different from Conventional Medicine?
- Anything Else I Should Know About?
What Are the Basic Principles of Chiropractic?
Chiropractic calls on the body’s natural ability to heal itself by moving vertebrae and freeing up nerve pathways. When energy travels along the nerve pathways better, pain is relieved, muscles relax and the body functions more normally again.
The nervous system, composed of the brain, the spinal cord and billions of nerve fibers, controls and coordinates all other organs and structures.
The bony spine, although designed to protect the delicate nerve tissue within, can develop restricted range of motion and affect the nerves. This interferes with nerve communication within the body. The restricted vertebra is called a subluxation. Experience and research studies show that adjusting the subluxation can relieve nerve interference and allow the body to function normally, thus improving and maintaining health.
How Was My Chiropractor Trained?
Dr. O’Connor completed a 4 year Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology and then completed a 5-year curriculum at the Palmer School of Chiropractic. The core curriculum included over 4,400 hours of classes in anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnosis, laboratory analysis and nutrition, and many hours of training in physical medicine. A 550-hour internship curriculum program was included – very similar to a medical school curriculum.
Why Should I See a Doctor of Chiropractic?
People often look to Chiropractic for a method of healing that does not involve drugs. Chiropractic care focuses on structural alignment of the spine and extremities, and balances the roles of diet, exercise, spirit and mind.
What Is an Adjustment?
The intent of a spinal adjustment is to restore normal motion and function of the body frame in order to restore normal function of the nerves. To accomplish that, we use adjusting techniques characterized by a precise, specific thrust. The Chiropractic adjustment generally differs from spinal manipulation practiced by a physical therapist or an osteopath because the chiropractic adjustment is more specific. It is done not just to mobilize a joint, but to remove a subluxation. The technique of Chiropractic adjusting is a manual art requiring considerable knowledge and dexterity. Mastery of the art of adjusting takes extensive training and practice, as does any other art.
The adjustment is a gentle, precise and effective placement, primarily by hand, of the vertebra into its correct position. Adjusting the vertebrae to restore normal function removes the irritation and helps the nervous system return to its natural efficiency. As a result, Chiropractic adjustments support the body’s defense system, maximizing innate recuperative powers and minimizing the need for more invasive procedures.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Although each patient reacts differently, the procedure is rarely painful. It can cause a variety of reactions, from temporary soreness to a sense of relief and well-being.
What Is the Treatment Course Like?
Treatment is directed along a 4-phase recovery program which includes acute intervention, remobilization, rehabilitation and lifestyle modification.
How Long Will My Treatment Course Take?
That depends on factors like your age, physical condition, previous history of accidents or surgeries, occupational requirements and how well you adhere to our treatment program. Relief of pain usually happens quickly (within a month), although stabilizing your condition may take longer. This will be discussed with you before you start treatment, based on your personal needs.
How Do I Know if Chiropractic Is for Me?
First, we’ll start with a comprehensive history including everything from your past medical history, lifestyle habits, job requirements, etc. to uncover sources of stress in your life. This is followed by a thorough physical examination to determine the cause of your problems. X-rays may be ordered on occasion if you have a history of previous trauma or chronic complaints.
The following are common conditions of patients who come to us:
- Low back, hip and/or leg pain or numbness
- Neck, shoulder and arm pain, tingling or numbness
- Chronic headaches
- Knee and/or ankle pain or injury
- All types of sports, dance and work injuries
- Carpal tunnel symptoms
- Pain between shoulder blades
- Difficulty sitting, bending and lifting
- Problems sleeping due to neck or back pain
- Unsuccessful neck or back surgery resulting in recurrent symptoms
- Recommended for surgery by another physician
- Progressive weakness in an arm or leg
- Recurring joint pain, stiffness or swelling
- Auto accident injury
- Inability to walk for reasonable distances without back or leg pain
- General malaise or weakness
- Inability to perform daily activities
If your problem is not on this list, it does not mean Chiropractic cannot help you. Please contact Dr. O’Connor with any questions you might have.
How Is Chiropractic Different from Conventional Medicine?
Your spine houses and protects the spinal cord, the “wiring” that carries the signals back and forth between your brain and every tissue and organ in your body. Where conventional medicine uses drugs and surgery, Chiropractic focuses on optimizing the body’s innate healing abilities via a method known as spinal manipulation. By applying pressure to restore normal mobility to malfunctioning areas of the spine, this often brings about pain relief and restoration of lost function. Treatment may also include appropriate physiotherapeutic modalities (laser, ultrasound, traction), advice on nutrition and lifestyle modification, and a customized exercise program. Our focus is on patient empowerment and independence through education and self-help procedures.
Anything Else I Should Know About?
Our primary concern is the well-being of our patients. We go to great lengths to make our patients feel comfortable and cared for with dignity, respect and the highest ethical standards. We appreciate your trust in our abilities.