FAQs

Why is Chiropractic the right choice?
Chiropractic treatments, including spinal manipulative therapy, are an effective and beneficial part of a total health care system.

Many Ph.Ds, M.D.s, and even government agencies, agree that the care chiropractors provide is effective for many conditions. The U.S. government has also taken a giant step in support of spinal manipulation. In 1994, the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) published and announced its new clinical practice guideline for the treatment of acute low back problems (LBP) in adults. The guideline was developed by a multi-disciplinary team that reviewed relevant scientific research on LBP treatments.

The AHCPR Guideline panel found that "for patients with acute low back symptoms without disease of the spinal nerve roots, the scientific evidence suggests spinal manipulation is effective in reducing pain and perhaps speeding recovery within the first month of symptoms." The panel goes on to recommend spinal manipulation as a first line of treatment for low back problems.

Doctors of Chiropractic have the expertise to diagnose, treat, and/or manage many health problems. Chiropractors will refer to the appropriate medical specialist or health care practitioner as necessary. Chiropractic is the right choice when you want conservative treatment stressing wellness and not employing drugs or surgery.

Can chiropractic help me?
Some people have the misconception that chiropractic care is only good for low back pain, "slipped disks," stiff necks, sciatica, whiplash and other spinal-related problems. While it is true that anyone suffering from these or similar problems should try chiropractic care first, it is not generally known that chiropractic assists in correcting and stabilizing many other problems of bodily dysfunction.

What can I expect during my first appointment?
Pain is generally the reason you call our office seeking treatment. Because pain can mean many things, during your first appointment the doctor examining you will take a thorough medical history, evaluate your ranges of motion and spinal alignment, and conduct appropriate orthopedic and neurological examinations.

In addition, she will discuss your health and exercise habits, your personal and family health history, and any previous diagnostic work-ups. A determination for additional diagnostic testing, such as x-rays, will be made during this appointment.

Because your health is important, our assessment will be detailed and thorough. Treatment generally does not begin until your second visit--after all health factors have been evaluated.

How long will it take to get well?
Chiropractic endeavors to correct the cause of a problem rather than only removing a symptom. The length of time on the road to wellness depends on factors such as following your doctor's treatment recommendations, your living and work habits, nutritional status and the severity and duration of your problem. The doctors at Back to Health Chiropractic will design a personal program to help you in the shortest amount of time possible.

Will I be permanently well or will this condition recur?
There are no guarantees in life, and many events occur which upset the delicate balance of wellness. For example:
Trauma - car accidents, falls, jolts, strains, etc.
Psychological distress - fear, stress, emotional upsets, etc.
Lifestyle - improper diet, exercise, sleep, work, etc.

Since we are all subject to these factors, there is no assurance we will not get sick as we go through life. Visiting your chiropractor periodically will maintain proper spinal function, resulting in a healthier you.

What kind of education do Chiropractors have?
Doctors of Chiropractic are not only trained in problems dealing with the spine, but are formally educated in clinical examination and diagnosis of the entire human body. They have education and training comparable to medical or osteopathic doctors in the basic sciences, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, etc.

Are there any special precautions for pregnant patients?
Chiropractic care is the safe, natural way to relieve back pain which often occurs during pregnancy. Our low force methods allow you to continue care comfortably during your pregnancy.

For your comfort, Back To Health has purchased a unique support that can be added to our adjusting tables for working on pregnant women. This specially designed support allows you to be comfortable throughout your treatment while providing the proper foundation for adjustment.