|
General questions about Chiropractic
See also: FAQs about your treatment
What do chiropractors do?
The adult human spine is made up of 26 bones (33 bones in children) that
house the spinal cord and all the nerves that control the body. Chiropractors
specialize in the manipulation of these joints - and any other joint in the body
– to restore joint motion, improve nerve function, decrease muscle spasm and
reduce tissue inflammation. Learn more about
chiropractic.
What conditions to
chiropractors treat?
Chiropractic has been proven to be safe and effective for
treatment of many common conditions. Learn more about conditions that can benefit from
chiropractic treatment.
What type of education and training do
chiropractors receive?
A chiropractor must complete a strenuous four-year, graduate
program and clinical internship before graduating with a Doctor of Chiropractic
(D.C.) degree. Chiropractors take the same fundamental courses as medical
doctors and are trained to diagnose most physical conditions and illnesses, but
specialize in the detection and treatment of neuro-musculoskeletal problems.
Upon passing four stages of National Board Examinations, a chiropractor then
receives a license to practice in the state and must take continuing education
courses each year to keep the license active.
Can I still see a chiropractor if I’m under
medical care? Will you work with my M.D.?
Yes. Chiropractic treatments should have no conflict or
interference with your medical treatments. In addition, Dr. Yin has works closely with several specialists in
the area to co-manage patients. In fact, many of our patients are medical
doctors, dentists, optometrists, nurses and medical support staff.
How is chiropractic different from physical
therapy?
While similar in many aspects of exercise
and modalities, chiropractors are the only healthcare professionals (besides
osteopaths) who specialize in performing adjustments and skilled enough to do so
on a daily basis. In addition, you do not need a medical referral to see a
chiropractor. We are trained to do comprehensive physical exams and can refer
you to other specialists if necessary.
What is a joint subluxation?
A subluxation can affect any joint in the body. Typically, it
is a mis-alignment or fixation (loss of normal motion) caused by muscle spasm,
injuries, structural abnormalities, or simple repetitive stress. Chronic
subluxations can involve irritation and/or inflammation of the nerves,
ligaments, tendons and muscles which results in PAIN.
Can I tell if I have a subluxation?
Not always. A subluxation behaves like a dental cavity.
You may have it for a long time (weeks, months, or even years) before symptoms
begin to appear. Depending on the chronicity of the subluxation and an
individual’s physical condition, some people will feel discomfort sooner than
others.
Some warning signs include neck pain, headaches, numbness or tingling, and
frequent fatigue. It is always a good idea to maintain periodic spinal check-ups
to maintain good spinal health and prevent more serious conditions from
occurring. Like our car engines, our bodies need "oil changes" to keep
functioning at optimal levels.
Can I adjust myself?
We do not recommend trying to adjust yourself A
chiropractic adjustment is a specific force applied in a specific direction to a
specific joint. Sometimes the "popping" noise you hear when moving is an
unstable joint that can become even more hypermobile with frequent
"self-adjustments."
Do adjustments hurt?
No. Chiropractic adjustments should never hurt. If performed
by a skilled doctor, an adjustment should be quick and painless. The sound you
hear is gas being released from the joint space as normal motion is restored –
similar to the sound you hear when you open a can of soda. Contrary to popular
belief, no bones physically "move" in an adjustment. Each patient is adjusted
according to their condition and preferences. Dr. Yin performs only the safest
and most effective techniques and is also very gentle in her approach.
Is chiropractic care safe?
Yes. Numerous scientific studies and clinical trials have
found that adjustments are "remarkably safe." By avoiding drugs and risky
surgery, chiropractic care boasts an excellent track record. Statistics have
shown that adjustments are about 100 times safer than taking an over-the-counter
pain reliever.
If you have any other questions please feel free
to give us a call at 510.793.6302. Our staff would be happy to speak with you.
Or if you prefer, contact us by e-mail at your leisure.
|
