Frequently Asked Questions in Monroe NC

Chiropractic Neurology is the profession that focuses on neurologic disorders of the human body, and the effects of these disorders on Health. It is based on the understanding that the body is self-healing and self-regulating, and that every cell, tissue and organ is controlled by the brain and nervous system through the vast network of nerves that make up the system. Chiropractors in general use physical therapies, especially focusing on rehabilitation and maintenance of the joints, and soft tissues. Chiropractors use rehabilitative techniques most often to treat neuromusculoskeletal complaints, including but not limited to back pain, neck pain, pain in the joints of the arms or legs, headaches, sleep troubles, irritability, fatigue, digestive troubles and allergies. Chiropractors may also use techniques such as spinal decompression therapy, aquatic therapy, physiotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, supportive Kinesiotaping, and rehabilitative exercises. Care from a licensed Chiropractor is generally categorized as Health care compared to surgeons or Chemopractors (MD), which is an alternative chemical therapy approach to disease care. The founder of the Chiropractic profession, D. D. Palmer, called it "a science of treating and restoring without drugs.

Chiropractic neurology is a specialty that branches from traditional Chiropractic methods, focusing on optimizing neurologic function by leveraging the concept of neuroplasticity. It involves assessment and therapeutic interventions for patients with neurologic conditions, including vestibular (balance) symptoms. Chiropractic Neurologists evaluate through examination the function of the brain and nervous system, and they use non-invasive treatments such as specific neurologic exercise, physical modalities, joint mobilization, cognitive exercises, and sensory stimulation to rehabilitate and restore neurologic function. Unlike medical neurology, which uses synthetic drugs and surgeries, Chiropractic Neurology emphasizes non-surgical approaches to address brain asymmetry and enhance its function.

It is treatment technique used by Chiropractors to restore and maintain function to the joints of the body and the Nervous system. It involves applying a controlled force to a specific joint, using the hands or specialized instruments, to improve mobility, maintain a normal resting position, range of motion and restore proper nerve transmission. The adjustment is intended to correct vertebral subluxations, which are dysfunctions of the spine that interfere with the nervous system. During the procedure, a quick, precise thrust is applied to the affected joint, which can result in a popping sound known as cavitation, caused by the release of pressure within the joint. A Chiropractors treatments are not a treatment for specific dis-eases but rather a method to improve nervous system function, support the body's natural ability to heal and therefore maintain your Health at a higher level. The specific techniques used can vary depending on the patient's needs and the Chiropractors training.

Chiropractic treatment is safe when performed by a licensed and trained professional and not a chemopractor who took a weekend seminar to learn how to “crack” people's necks. Studies have shown that the risks of complications are extremely low, especially when you consider that chempractors kill an estimated 100,000 people every year due to patients taking their drugs as prescribed. The spine manipulations that chiropractors provide are safe and effective, with fewer than one per billion/treatment developing an adverse event after a joint manipulation procedure. A chiropractor's therapies are a very safe and controlled procedure, and any negative effects from the technique are extremely rare. Additionally, a Chiropractors care is safer than all prescription chemicals and has far less risk than surgery.

The number of therapy sessions needed varies depending on the individual's presenting condition, severity, length of symptoms, and treatment goals. In general, a common initial program is 2 to 3 times per week for 2 to 4 weeks, followed by a re-evaluation. For trauma, acute or subacute pain, a Chiropractor may recommend five visits per week initially, but this frequency will decrease as the initial treatment goals are met.

For chronic conditions, ongoing treatment may be necessary, with visits gradually reducing to once a week or every few weeks as function improves. Some studies suggest that spinal manipulation may require 12 months to restore function optimally. The exact number of sessions will depend on the patient's response to treatment and the Doctor's assessment.

Chiropractic care offers a range of potential benefits, including functional restoration and maintenance, pain relief, improved mobility, and enhanced overall functional well-being. It is particularly known for addressing musculoskeletal issues, such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches, by focusing on the restoration of proper function of the spine. A Chiropractors treatments help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches by alleviating tension in the neck and shoulders brought on by neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction. Additionally, treatments improve the quality of sleep by restoring neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction, thereby reducing pain and tension in the body, promoting relaxation, and reducing stress levels.

The nervous system controls the regulation of the digestion, and dysfunctions in the spine will disrupt this process. Chiropractic joint rehabilitation therapy helps restore the mechanics of the spine, allowing the nervous system to function properly and improving digestion. In addition to these benefits, restorative physical therapies performed by a Chiropractor will also help athletes improve their performance by promoting proper joint mobility and function, reducing the risk of injury, and improving neuronal activation promoting all athletic activities to a degree.

It will also help reduce allergy symptoms by addressing dysfunctions in the spine that interfere with signals to and from the brain allowing for changes in an immune response. Care can also improve lung tidal volume function by treating chronic back pain and the rib cage, allowing for deeper breathing with or without pain.

Improved digestion can be achieved by restoring spinal function, which will ease stomach issues and promote proper digestion.

For pregnant women,a Chiropractors care has been shown to ease pregnancy pain, alleviate symptoms of morning sickness, and make labor and delivery easier. It will also improve balance, which tends to suffer as people get older. A Chiropractors care is a form of natural rehabilitation and maintenance that focuses on the body's innate ability to heal itself when properly functioning. It is a drug-free and non-invasive natural treatment that will help to get off of the alternative care of chemical prescriptions and help to avoid risky surgical procedures. 

Chiropractic care helps with conditions such as scoliosis and poor posture, which will contribute to neck and back pain. It is beneficial for patients with migraines and headaches, which will arise from neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction, frequently located in the vertebral motion units at the top of the spine. A Chiropractors care is suitable for people of all ages and is an integral part of a being well.

However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of a Chiropractors care will vary based on the presenting condition and skill of the practitioner. There are some risks associated with it, including the minuscule possibility of serious complications, although these are rare and near irrelevant compared the high risk of complications including death from consuming prescription chemicals and even minor surgery. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) statistics show that over 250,000 people die in the United States annually due to medical practice error.

There are some risks associated with it, including the minuscule possibility of serious complications, although these are rare and near irrelevant compared the high risk of complications including death from consuming prescription chemicals and even minor surgery. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) statistics show that over 250,000 people die in the United States annually due to medical practice error.

There are potential risks associated with a Chiropractors treatment. While it is considered safe when performed by a trained and registered practitioner, be weary of the medical doctor who has taken a weekend seminar in “cracking” peoples necks because he or she heard the Chiropractors make money with this “simple” maneuver. The application of a joint mobilization technique requires years of study and guided practice to master.

Some individuals will experience mild soreness or discomfort following treatment, which resolves within 48 hours. However, there is a potential risk of traumatic injury, especially if the manipulation is not performed with proper technique by a properly trained physician or if the patient is particularly vulnerable to injury.

Reports of severe side effects with rehabilitative physical joint therapies include herniated discs, fractures, artery dissection, and stroke.

It is a myth pushed by the medical doctors that they are the gate keepers to natural Health care. Remember these are the “doctors” that kill 250,000 people per year. Medical doctors have no training in natural rehabilitative Health care. The treatment provided by a Chiropractic physician can only be determined as appropriate by a licensed Chiropractic physician.

A Chiropractors treatments are generally not painful. Most treatments involve mild pressure with a quick thrust and are not painful. The popping sound frequently heard during a treatment known as a cavitation is the release of pressure in a joint, not a sign of damage. While some patients may experience mild discomfort or soreness after a treatment, similar to the feeling after a workout, this is usually short-lived and followed by relief, improved function and mobility. In some cases, if an area of the spine is inflamed or injured, there may be temporary discomfort, but this is typically minor and resolves quickly. A Chiropractic physicians care is considered safe and effective when performed by a licensed Chiropractor.

When choosing a chiropractor, there are several factors to consider that can help you decide which doctor is the best fit for your needs. First, it is important to check if the doctor is licensed and has a valid license, as this ensures they have undergone proper training and have not faced any disciplinary actions. Additionally, you should consider the physician’s experience and expertise in treating your specific condition. Some doctors may have specialized training in areas such as neurology, orthopedics, sports medicine, pediatrics or rehabilitation, which may be beneficial if you have a specific condition or injury.2

Another important factor is the doctor's approach to treatment. A good chiropractor will take the time to assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. They should also be willing to refer you to another healthcare provider if a condition is discovered that does not fall with the chiropractic scope of practice. Furthermore, it is important to feel comfortable with the doctor and the clinic environment. You should feel at ease during your consultations and treatments, and the doctor should be able to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Insurance coverage is also a practical consideration. Choosing a doctor who does not accept insurance reimbursement is sure to save you money. Everyone loses and the insurance companies continue to rake in the dollars as long as society continues to make them the ultimate “middleman”. Additionally, reading reviews and asking for recommendations from friends, family, or your alternative care physician can provide insights into a chiropractor's patient care and professional ethics.7

In summary, picking a certain chiropractor over another should be based on their credentials, experience, treatment approach, compatibility with your needs, and overall comfort level.

An appointment at a  chiropractic physicians office typically lasts less than 10 minutes, with the first visit usually being longer to allow for a thorough consultation, examination and assessment of the patient's condition and Health history. At our facility we have many physical therapies to choose from to rehabilitate and maintain a persons function depending on their presenting condition and examination findings. A spinal joint therapy session can be less than five minutes while a full neurologic rehabilitation examination with a neuroplasticity treatment on the same day will take up to two hours. Subsequent sessions will take less time always depending on a person’s progress and treatment plan.

Chiropractors are educated through a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree program, which typically takes four years to complete. These programs are accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE) in the United States and cover a range of subjects including anatomy, physiology, cadaver lab, cellular physiology, biochemistry, endocrinology, spinal anatomy, microbiology, radiology, rehabilitation, sports injury, functional kinesiology, pediatrics, clinical nutrition, public health, clinical examination, treatment and natural chiropractic care principles, philosophy, ethics, best practices and more.

Prospective chiropractors without relevant prior health care education or experience must complete no less than 4200 student/teacher contact hours (or the equivalent) in four years of full-time education, including a minimum of 1000 hours of supervised clinical training.

Chiropractors must pass boards administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) to be licensed to practice in a U.S. state or territory. The boards are broken into four sections. Part 1 is a test to grade your didactic abilities in the basics of human anatomy and physiology. Part 2 national boards will test for advanced aspects of the functions of the human body, including many physiologic functions. Part 3 boards will test on all aspects of human anatomy, physiology, diagnosis, and treatment of natural Health care. Part 4 boards are separated into a clinic and physical therapy/rehabilitation sections. 

Yes, pregnant women do seek natural Health care more and more do to society's better understanding of the risks of seeking care at an alternative chemopractor. According to the American Pregnancy Association, there are no known contraindications to natural health care treatments provided by a skilled Chiropractor while pregnant. It is absolutely safe to seek natural Health care during pregnancy, as pregnancy can cause new and different neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction symptoms that you’ve never experienced before in your body. Care from a licensed Chiropractor offers benefits throughout pregnancy, from relieving nausea in the first trimester to helping with carpal tunnel, constipation and reflux in the second and third trimesters etc. Of great concern is the pelvic remodeling of a new mother's pelvis of her first pregnancy. The movement of the pelvic bones can be helped along with joint manipulation therapy, easing the new mother's delivery of her child. It is not necessary to consult with an obstetrician before seeing a Chiropractic physician; both are primary care providers, however, concomitant care is the best for mother and child.

Chiropractic care can never be addictive as it is not a chemical like the prescription chemopractors give to patients. However, most individuals develop such a wonderful boost in all aspects of their physical being from regular treatments due to the amazing rehabilitative benefits they experience. This is often compared to other routine health practices like washing one's body, brushing teeth, or changing the oil in your car, where the habit is more about maintaining function than the perceived benefit of popping a pill.

Furthermore, natural functional rehabilitative Health care can play a role in addiction recovery by addressing underlying issues such as stress and nervous system dysfunction. Chiropractic care is a natural and safe method that can complement alternative addiction treatments by promoting overall wellness and reducing stress, which are significant factors in managing addiction.

The popping sound heard during a chiropractic treatment is caused by the release of pressure within the joint spaces. When a doctor applies a controlled force to a joint, the pressure within the joint changes, leading to the formation and rapid collapse of gas bubbles primarily composed of nitrogen and carbon dioxide and the stretching of normal and abnormal tissues. This process, known as joint cavitation, lends to the characteristic popping. The sound is not an indication of injury but rather a byproduct of the joint manipulation. It is important to note that the presence or absence of the sound does not necessarily reflect the effectiveness of the treatment, as some techniques may not produce this sound.

While some self-care techniques can help relieve minor neck or back tension, true rehabilitative joint therapy requires specialized training and should be performed by a licensed Chiropractic professional. Attempting to treat yourself can lead to hypermobility, muscle imbalances, or other injury, most easily in sensitive areas like the spine and neck.

If you're experiencing mild stiffness, gentle stretches, myofascial release using tools like foam rollers or massage balls, and controlled range-of-motion exercises may provide some relief. However, these should not be considered substitutes for professional Chiropractic care, which involves precise, controlled manipulations aimed at correcting neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction.

Yes, many insurance plans cover care performed by a licensed Chiropractic physician, although insurance companies frequently discriminate against Chiropractic doctors. Insurance companies are for profit entities, and they realize that natural Health care is not what disease insurance was created for. It would be nice if insurance companies covered Health care expenses however, this would be similar to an auto insurer covering oil changes. Natural Health care is about being proactive regarding the functionality of your body not the reactivity of treating disease which is what the chemopractors do.  The corrupt Affordable Care Act (ACA) does not require insurance plans to cover natural Chiropractic care, but most state marketplace plans do cover it to a lesser and lesser degree. Government-run insurance programs such as Medicare and Medicaid often cover a small, almost meaningless portion of natural care by a chiropractic physician however, the juice is not worth the squeeze.

 Some plans have discriminatory restrictions, such as requiring a referral from a chemopractor or setting a cap on the number of visits per month or year.

For specific information about the benefits covered by your plan, it is recommended to refer to your health insurance policy or contact your insurance provider directly. Additionally, checking with your chiropractic care provider can help determine if they are in-network for your plan, as in-network providers typically offer less coverage in the long run as they are chemopractic and disease care oriented.

Care by a licensed Chiropractic physician can absolutely help with back pain as we take a natural approach to handle the cause of the pain rather than not treating it by giving a chemical prescription. Chiropractors use manual techniques, such as spinal manipulation, to relieve pain and improve neuromusculoskeletal function. These treatments help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function. This is the case with many of the most common symptoms associated with neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction such as headaches/migraines, fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances, sinus/allergies, pain in the neck, shoulders or low back and digestive trouble.

Research has shown that chiropractic care is the non-invasive, affordable, natural way for health conscious people wanting to take a proactive rather than reactive approach. However, it is important to note that chiropractic care may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who place no priority on their Health or who have been under chemopractic care for so long that they are to far gone and can not be helped.

In addition, while chiropractic care may provide relief for some types of back pain, it may address the root cause of chronic or severe conditions, which require the treatment of a specialist. It is also important to have a thorough consultation with a properly trained and experienced, licensed Chiropractic physician to discuss any potential risks or concerns before beginning treatment.

Yes, see above.

Yes, this is one of the main reasons people seek natural Health care at a Chiropractic physician’s office. Savvy and knowledgeable people understand that there is a cause within their body that is creating the symptom of headache/migraine and the Chiropractors are the professionals trained to examine, find and address those causes. Also they understand that their condition is not do to a lack af man made chemicals in their body or that they have to many body parts thereby need to have something cut off, cut out or just plain old cut/ablated.

Chiropractic care and physical therapy are both professional disciplines, but they differ in their primary goals. Care at a Chiropractors office is physical therapy, meaning we don’t use chemicals or surgery. Care primarily focuses on improving either a specific or a general neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction thereby allowing an improvement in the body's ability to function in all systems and heal itself. A whole-body functional wellness approach. Chiropractors are Doctors of the whole body.

Physical therapists also use physical therapies, methods, and approaches that are more focused on improving movement, flexibility and function of the tissues being treated in a specific area. They are more focused on an area rather a persons Health overall. Licensed physical therapists although called Doctors now sometimes, are still therapists of a problem not for the whole person.

Chiropractors typically treat issues related to back pain, neck pain, joint pain in the arms or legs, and headaches, injuries, chronic conditions such as arthritis, or those who need rehabilitation after surgery. Natural Health care physicians also provide education on proper body mechanics, posture, and exercises for home-based care, emphasizing functional rehabilitation, injury prevention, and long-term overall well-being.

In terms of education, both chiropractors and physical therapists complete advanced degrees, with Chiropractors earning a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree and physical therapists now can earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) degree which was only recently started as to compete with Chiropractic physicians, it was determined that “physical therapists” needed to be called doctors. However, the educational focus differs.

Chiropractic care is often considered more proactive in preventing dis-ease of the body, while physical therapy is typically reactive, focusing on rehabilitation after an injury or accident. Both disciplines use hands-on physical therapy to treat specific conditions, but Chiropractors cover more aspects of the human body, rehabilitation and focuses on a wide range of problems, from neurologic, to sports-related injuries or weakness caused by strokes.

Yes, chiropractors help with sports injuries. There is an advanced degree in athletic participation enhancement, prevention and injury recovery care that I trained in earning the Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) classification. We provide treatment for various types of sports injuries, including pulls, sprains, and strains, and can help speed up the healing process while minimizing discomfort and adverse effects that can arise from the healing process. Chiropractic care also aids in recovery from injuries by reducing pain and swelling, improving mobility, promoting healing and promoting proper function of the joints. Additionally, we offer maintenance and preventative services that can reduce the risk of injuries by maintaining optimal body function and flexibility. Many professional sports teams, including those in the National Football League and Major League Baseball, have Chiropractic Physicians on staff to promote and guide the proper rehabilitative treatment of athletes to get them at return to play RTP status as quickly and safely as possible.

Yes, chiropractic care helps and supports proper posture. Chiropractors identify postural imbalances and use various techniques to correct them. For instance, chiropractic joint treatments will help restore proper neurologic communication from the torso to the vestibular/balance system which is how the body stabilizes and sets posture. Additionally, we use stretches and strengthening exercises to correct imbalances in soft tissues, further aiding in posture improvement. A Chiropractors care will also help individuals develop postural awareness, teaching them what proper posture looks and feels like for their body. Overall, A Chiropractors care addresses the underlying issues that cause poor posture, leading to better overall lifetime outcomes.

During a chiropractic therapy session, a licensed Chiropractor or assistant will provide therapies ordered by the physician to promote joint mobility, retore or rehabilitate proper function of the tissues promoting neurologic integration and homeostasis in the subject treated. These procedures improve the overall physical and mental function of the body. 

The joint mobilization treatments that Chiropractors are trained to provide involve a quick thrust to a joint in a treated area, which helps restore range of motion. This one therapy can have a systemic effect throughout the body depending on the area being treated and the severity of the neurologic compromising associated with that dysfunction being treated. 

Chiropractors use different methods to perform treatments, such as their hands, a drop table, an activator or other methods to promote proper joint motion. The goal is to restore proper function to the joints and allow the body to heal properly, naturally. Each treatment is customized, as no two people receive the exact same treatment.

A Chiropractors care is safe for children when performed by a qualified and licensed Chiropractor. There is no evidence to suggest that pediatric care, when provided appropriately, could harm children. In fact, research indicates that a chiropractors treatments can offer numerous benefits for kids, helping them get the best possible start in life. Parents and legal guardians can take their child to a chiropractor, who will discuss treatment options and create a personalized plan based on their child’s age, size, and Health needs.