What is Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care is a healthcare discipline focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those affecting the spine, joints, and nervous system. Our practice is grounded in evidence-based methods, meaning we use treatments that are supported by current scientific research and clinical studies. We combine manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercises, and patient education to help you achieve optimal function and pain relief. As evidence-based practitioners, we stay current with the latest research to ensure you receive safe, effective, and scientifically validated care.
What are the Qualifications of Chiropractors?
Chiropractors are licensed healthcare professionals who complete extensive education and training. To become a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC), practitioners must complete a minimum of 4,200 hours of classroom, laboratory, and clinical experience, including a doctoral program that typically takes four years to complete. This education includes comprehensive study of anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, biomechanics, radiology, and clinical diagnosis. Chiropractors are licensed by state boards and must pass rigorous national board examinations. They are recognized as portal-of-entry healthcare providers, meaning patients can see them directly without a referral.
What Causes the “Cracking” Sound During an Adjustment?
The popping or cracking sound you may hear during a chiropractic adjustment is called cavitation. This sound occurs when a joint is moved through its range of motion, causing a change in pressure within the joint capsule. This pressure change allows dissolved gases (primarily nitrogen) in the synovial fluid to be released, creating that audible pop. The sound itself is not an indication of the effectiveness of the adjustment, and not all adjustments produce this sound. The cavitation is a normal, harmless occurrence and is not bones “cracking” or rubbing together.
How Often Will I Need to See a Chiropractor?
For most acute injuries or new conditions, an initial treatment frequency of 2-3 visits per week for approximately 4 weeks is typical. As your condition improves, the frequency of visits will decrease accordingly. This progressive approach allows us to provide intensive care when you need it most, then gradually reduce visits as you regain function and your symptoms resolve.
Chronic conditions or more complex musculoskeletal issues may require a different treatment schedule. Your doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation during your first visit and discuss a recommended treatment frequency based on your specific condition, goals, and response to care. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your individual needs and adjusted as you progress.
Do I Need to Keep Coming to a Chiropractor Indefinitely?
The frequency and duration of your care is entirely up to you and based on your individual needs and goals. Treatment typically occurs in phases. During the acute phase, when you’re experiencing active pain or injury, more frequent visits may be recommended to help you recover. Once you’ve progressed beyond the acute phase and achieved your initial treatment goals, many patients find value in periodic maintenance sessions to support ongoing mobility, prevent future issues, and maintain optimal function. However, these ongoing wellness visits are completely optional and never required. We believe in empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare based on what works best for your lifestyle and goals.
Does Insurance Cover Chiropractic Care?
Most insurance plans provide coverage for chiropractic and physical therapy services. However, we understand that navigating insurance benefits can be complex and confusing, with varying copays, deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, and coverage limitations. We are in-network providers with select insurance carriers and out-of-network with most others.
An important distinction of our practice is that we do not allow insurance companies to dictate your care. Your treatment plan is determined by your clinical needs and goals, not by insurance limitations. We work with you to understand your benefits and make care accessible.
For patients who prefer to avoid insurance complexity altogether, or those without coverage, we offer very affordable self-pay rates. Our team is happy to discuss all payment options and help you understand your out-of-pocket costs before beginning treatment.
What Should I Expect During My First Visit?
Your initial appointment is comprehensive and typically lasts 45-60 minutes. Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Detailed History: We’ll discuss your current concerns, symptoms, medical history, lifestyle factors, and previous treatments you’ve tried.
- Physical Examination: A thorough examination may include assessment of your posture, range of motion, orthopedic and neurological testing, and palpation of affected areas to identify the source of your problem.
- Goal Setting: We’ll work together to establish realistic, measurable goals for your care based on what matters most to you.
- Treatment Plan Discussion: We’ll explain our clinical findings, discuss diagnosis, and outline a recommended treatment approach tailored to your specific condition.
- Treatment (if appropriate): In many cases, we can begin treatment during your first visit if it’s clinically indicated and you’re comfortable moving forward.
You’ll leave your first appointment with a clear understanding of your condition and a roadmap for your recovery.
Are X-rays Required Before Starting Care?
No, x-rays are not automatically required before beginning treatment. Our doctors will perform a thorough clinical examination to assess your condition. Imaging studies, including x-rays, are only ordered when the doctor determines they are medically necessary to guide your care or rule out specific conditions. The majority of patients do not need imaging before starting treatment. If imaging is recommended in your case, we’ll explain why it’s needed and discuss the next steps with you.
Do I Need a Referral to Be Seen?
No referral is necessary. Chiropractors are portal-of-entry providers, which means you can schedule an appointment directly without needing a referral from another healthcare provider. Simply contact our office, and we’ll get you scheduled for an initial evaluation.
What Should I Wear to My Appointment?
Wear comfortable gym clothes or anything you would typically wear to work out. Athletic wear allows you to move freely during the physical examination and treatment, ensuring we can properly assess your movement patterns and provide effective care. Think athletic shorts or leggings, a t-shirt or tank top, and athletic shoes.