Why chiropractic and what are the benefits for me?
Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest, drug free, non-invasive therapies for the treatment of back pain, neck pain, joint pain of the arms and legs, headaches, TMJ, and other neuromusculoskeletal complaints. The goal of treatment is to return a more normal function to joints, muscles, and supportive tissues and allow the body to regulate itself properly along its nerve channels. As normal function returns, muscles become less guarded, less tender, and inflammation subsides. Essentially, your body will be better able to regulate and heal itself without the use of many unnecessary medications which may just be covering a symptom. You may also notice improvements in other areas of your health as your body moves toward wellness.
What can I expect my first visit?
Your first visit will begin with a thorough history and examination. This will consist of questions regarding your physical complaint, family history, dietary habits, lifestyle, and other care that you have received. A physical examination is then performed, which may include x-rays and other diagnostic procedures. Dr. Chapman will focus careful attention to the areas that are causing your discomfort and address any other underlying issues that may be contributing to the problem. Once the evaluation is complete, the exam findings are presented to you. Dr. Chapman will then make recommendations regarding your treatment options for the best possible outcome. Your treatment will consist of therapy for the relaxation of sore or injured muscles and soft tissues followed by adjustments, or manipulation, of the dysfunctional joints. The gentle, but effective, treatments may be done by hand or with the use of special instruments. Whereas some offices may use only one method to do this, Dr. Chapman has been trained in several different techniques to match not only the body type of the patient, but the condition being treated. This approach gives you the best results. In keeping with a relaxed, professional atmosphere in our office, Dr. Chapman also practices open communication with patients by letting them know what to expect before it happens …there are no surprises. Treatment recommendations may include specific home-care instructions, the use of stretches and strengthening exercises, or the avoidance of certain activities. Follow-up visits are discussed on a case by case basis to avoid a “cookie cutter” routine.
Is chiropractic safe for women who are pregnant?
Absolutely. Moms-to-be face a number of challenges as their body prepares for birth. Postural and weight changes create stresses in the mid and low back areas and hormones unique to pregnancy cause loosening of the joints most noticeable in the low back, hips, ankles, and feet. Dr. Chapman has specific training and experience in treating moms-to-be to allow for the structural changes the body undergoes due to pregnancy, as each pregnancy is unique. Moms who have had pregnancies with chiropractic treatment know the benefits of chiropractic in reducing the stresses of pregnancy on the body and facilitating the birthing process with properly aligned hips, pelvis, and low back.
Can you treat children?
Actually, children may get the best results from chiropractic treatment. Typically, children have not been subjected to the stresses; nor have they had as many traumas as adults. This means they do not have the processes of degeneration in the spine and joints from which adults suffer. In fact, many of the problems occurring in adult life can be attributed to uncorrected spinal conditions in childhood. Playing sports, gymnastics, martial arts, dance, and cheerleading place a variety of structural demands on young people. Many of our patients bring their children in for periodic check-ups to help ensure that they get a great start on life.
Will I hear a noise or a popping sound?
The goal of treatment is to return joints and supportive tissues to a more normal, proper motion with improved function. At times, with the return of the proper motion of a joint, a gas bubble may be released in the joint producing a noise similar to when you “crack” your knuckles. However, this noise is not the goal. Dr. Chapman practices the use of finesse when treating the young, the elderly, the expectant, and everyone in between.
Once I have a chiropractic treatment, do I have to keep going forever?
The answer to this depends completely upon your goals and expectations. Unlike some offices, we will not ask you to sign a contract obligating yourself to a certain number of visits. We will offer you options and make recommendations to help you achieve your health goals. Our patients enjoy feeling better as a result of treatment. In addition, they generally find that a periodic “tune up” is a great part of a healthy, active lifestyle.
Does chiropractic treatment require a referral from an MD?
While a referral is usually not needed to see a chiropractor, certain health plans may have specific referral requirements. Please contact our office with any questions and we will be happy to assist you.
How many treatments will I need?
This varies with your age, general physical condition, and specific health goals. Our commitment to you is to get you “back on track” as quickly as possible.