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Getting Started With Chiropractic Care: Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Welcome to Precision Spinal Care

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If you suffer from spinal pain, you are not alone: back pain is the number one cause of debility worldwide. One of the top priorities for many people with back pain is finding an expert to help give relief. Many people struggle to find something that works: back pain is the leading reason for doctor’s office visits among people with musculoskeletal problems, and is the second most common reason overall to see a doctor. Back pain has also significantly contributed to the opioid crisis. Fortunately, better treatment options are available. At Precision Spinal Care, my goal is to help you permanently improve your pain and spinal health, healing your spinal problems instead of simply masking the symptoms with drugs. I’ve written this guide to help you better understand the options that are available to you in order to relieve your back and neck pain. Chiropractic medicine is a science, not a mystery. As a patient, you should leave every appointment knowing the full details of where you are in your course of care. This guide is the first step in your journey to resolve your pain.

About the Author

My name is Dr. David Packer, and I am a specialist in mechanical spine pain and trauma. I have owned and operated Precision Spinal Care since 2002. In my practice, I focus on NUCCA chiropractic, a safe and painless technique to relieve upper cervical spine problems. As a board-certified NUCCA doctor, I have extensive training and certifications across multiple fields of spinal care, including:

  • MRI Spine Interpretation
  • Spinal Biomechanical Engineering
  • Orthopedic Testing
  • Stroke Evaluation Protocols
  • Spinal Trauma and Pathology
  • Impairment Rating
  • Interventional Pain Management
  • Orthopedic Surgery – Extremity
  • Orthopedic Surgery – Spine
  • Neurosurgery
  • Neuroradiology
  • MRI Technology
  • Emergency Department
  • Internal Medicine/Primary Care
  • Crash Dynamics
  • Accident Reconstruction
  • Medical – Legal Documentation
  • Trauma Injury – Triage and Treatment Protocols
  • Neuro-diagnostic Testing

I am a fellow in spinal biomechanics and trauma recognized through SUNY Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine. Additionally, I serve on the Chesapeake Regional Hospital Foundation Board of Directors. I am committed to helping other doctors improve their chiropractic care. To this end, I teach at NUCCA conferences and at Life University in Atlanta, Georgia, training both doctors and students in NUCCA care. I also serve on the NUCCA Board of Directors as the co-chair of the Education Committee.

1. How do I choose the right doctor or treatment for my spine related pain?

Many different types of doctors — ranging from primary care providers to chiropractors to surgeons — can help treat back pain. However, each type of doctor will generally work best at treating specific types of back pain. For example, an orthopedic surgeon would be a good option for spinal stenosis, which may require surgical intervention. In contrast, a chiropractor would be an excellent choice for spinal imbalance, which can be treated noninvasively. Your medical team, including your chiropractor, can help to triage you to the appropriate doctor to help address your pain. Patient Care Triage How do I choose the best doctor for my neck or back pain?

The first step in choosing a doctor for your neck or back pain is to have a thorough evaluation of the underlying problem that is causing your pain. It is important to not only treat the pain when it comes to your spine, but to treat the causative issue so that the pain does not recur or worsen. By having your doctor perform a full evaluation of the root cause of your pain, you can choose the most appropriate doctor to help you heal. If you suffer from mechanical spine pain, which is due to ligament problems in the spine, chiropractic can help.

Should I see a chiropractor for lower back pain?

A chiropractor can help you with lower back pain that is due to biomechanical problems, including issues with your ligaments. At your initial intake visit, your chiropractor will determine the root cause of your back pain. If your pain is not due to a biomechanical issue that can be treated with chiropractic, your chiropractor will likely refer you to the most appropriate doctor to serve your needs.

Should I have spinal surgery?

Every person and health problem is unique. For this reason, it is impossible to say if a person should have spinal surgery without a thorough medical evaluation. Surgery is usually not the first treatment choice for spinal pain, and is usually reserved for after other conservative methods have failed to treat spinal problems. That said, some symptoms are more likely to be successfully treated with spinal surgery than others. These include loss of bladder and bowel control, neurological deficits, sharp radiating pain, and tumors.

Treatment options for chronic spine related pain

The best treatment options for your chronic spine pain depend on the underlying cause of your pain. By working with your doctor to understand the root cause of your spinal issues, you will be in the best position to choose the right treatment option for you. Some treatment options, like chiropractic, work well for spine pain related to ligament problems. Other options, like physical therapy, work to help you improve flexibility and strength. Further options, like surgery, may be more appropriate for spine pain from anatomical problems.

Is chiropractic right for me?

Although chiropractic can help many people, your medical needs are unique. For this reason, your chiropractor will perform a robust physical exam to determine if chiropractic is right for you. During your initial chiropractic visit, your chiropractor will analyze your pain. Besides a physical exam, this assessment may involve reviewing your medical records and spinal imaging. The results of this first exam will determine how Precision Spinal Care can help with your spinal pain. From there, a plan can be developed about the type and duration of chiropractic treatment that is best for you.

Chiropractic versus physical therapy

Chiropractic and physical therapy each play a role in treating back pain. However, they are not interchangeable treatment strategies. Generally, physical therapy is an excellent option to increase muscle tone, build strength and flexibility, and address non-spine joints. Meanwhile, chiropractic is the gold standard for treating mechanical pain, by mobilizing joints and improving the health of spinal ligaments.

When to avoid chiropractic care

Although chiropractic care is safe and effective for many people, it is not for everyone. People who should avoid chiropractic include those with anatomical spine pain like spinal tumors, fractures and herniated discs. The risk of chiropractic can outweigh the benefits in those cases. At your first visit, you should discuss your medical history with your chiropractor. Your chiropractor will then be able to let you know if there are any concerns about chiropractic care.

2. 7 key features of how chiropractic helps people

At Precision Spinal Care, I focus on providing you with the best spinal care possible that is backed by medical evidence. Prioritizing your spinal recovery and pain management is my top priority. What is mechanical spine pain?

Mechanical spine pain is due to ligament problems in the spine. When ligaments are damaged, they often do not heal normally on their own. This leaves them stiffer, weaker, and more sensitive to pain. The joint can then become unstable, which can lead to permanent damage within 6 months.

How Precision Spinal Care helps with pain

At Precision Spinal Care, I help your pain by addressing the root cause of your pain. Spinal pain is a symptom of an underlying spinal condition. Some of these conditions are due to underlying biomechanical problems with which chiropractic can help, like:

  • Decreased range of motion
  • Excessive range of motion
  • Inactivity
  • Repetitive movements
  • Trauma
  • Degenerative disc disease

By figuring out and fixing the cause of your pain, both your pain and the underlying issue can improve. This leads to a long-term benefit in both your health and quality of life.

How does chiropractic work?

Chiropractic medicine works by fixing the biomechanical problems that cause spinal pain. During a chiropractic adjustment, the chiropractor moves your spinal vertebrae into a more stable position. In turn, your spinal health is improved. In addition, the pain sensors in your spine are less likely to become irritated and painful when they are correctly aligned. For this reason, chiropractic can treat both your spinal health as well as your pain.

Is chiropractic safe?

For the vast majority of patients, chiropractic is considered to be safe and effective. Generally, the only people in which chiropractic is a poor choice are those with anatomical spine problems like fractures. Further, the effectiveness of chiropractic care is backed by science and has been thoroughly studied.

What is NUCCA?

NUCCA is an abbreviation for the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association. In NUCCA, diagnosis and treatment are based on X-Ray analysis as well as orthopedic and biomechanical measurements. By analyzing your test results, your NUCCA chiropractor can identify your unique misalignment pattern and gently correct it, improving both your spine health and overall pain.

NUCCA v. traditional chiropractic

Whereas traditional chiropractic is often associated with a twisting motion and popping sound in the back, NUCCA is very different. NUCCA treatments focus on the upper cervical area of the spine, in the neck. In NUCCA, adjustments are gentle, and you will feel only a light pressure on the neck while the chiropractor is working. When deciding between traditional chiropractic and NUCCA, things to consider include if you would prefer a traditional twist and pop approach to target your symptoms, or if you prefer a lighter, more global approach that treats the underlying cause of discomfort.

How does NUCCA chiropractic work?

NUCCA works by correcting spinal misalignment in your neck. X-ray views of the head and neck are used to make mathematical measurements about your misalignment, guiding your chiropractor’s care. By analyzing these X-rays, your doctor can identify your specific upper cervical misalignment. By pinpointing the misalignment, there is less need for repeated corrections as your body heals itself.

3. Does insurance cover chiropractic care, and what will it cost me?

It is common to be concerned about the possible costs of chiropractic care. Fortunately, many strategies are available to pay for care. Medical insurance may cover your chiropractic treatments, in addition to other programs like flexible spending accounts, discount medical plans, payment plans, and personal injury liens. Does my insurance cover the cost of chiropractic care

Many insurance plans cover the cost of chiropractic care. Further, many plans allow you to book an appointment with the chiropractor directly on your own, without a referral from your primary care provider. However, even if your insurance covers chiropractic care in general, you should check to make sure that the services you select are covered. Questions to ask include:

  • If the chiropractor is in-network or out-of-network: If your chiropractor has negotiated a rate with your insurance company and has agreed to accept the terms of your insurance coverage as payment, they are considered an in-network provider. In-network providers may have more favorable costs and coverage compared to out-of-network providers.
  • What your deductible is: A deductible is the yearly amount you pay out-of-pocket for in-network or out-of-network services. You may need to pay a certain amount of money towards your deductible before your insurance coverage will pay for your care.
  • What your copay is: A co-pay is the portion you pay each time you visit your healthcare provider or the amount you pay for each prescription. Many insurance plans will require you to have a copay for each doctor’s visit.
  • If the services you need are covered: Even if your chiropractor is covered by your insurance plan, you should check to make sure that the specific therapies you need are covered.

How much does chiropractic care cost?

The cost of chiropractic care can vary depending on the services performed. For example, at Precision Spinal Care, initial exams are $20 and spinal x-rays are $50. Your initial exam consists of your initial workup and consultation with Dr. Packer. If your insurance plan covers the cost of chiropractic treatment, you should check with your plan to see if you need to pay a copay for your chiropractor. If your insurance does not cover chiropractic care, other payment options are available.

What payment options are available if I don’t have insurance?

Although many insurance plans cover chiropractic care, not all do. If yourinsurance does not cover chiropractic services, there are other options to pay for treatment. Most chiropractors do not want to turn away patients seeking care, so their offices may be able to work with you in terms of finding payment options. A variety of options may be available, such as:

  • Health Savings Account (HSAs): These accounts allow you to use pre-tax money to pay for medical expenses like chiropractic care.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): These pre-tax medical savings accounts can also be used to pay for chiropractic treatment.
  • Care Credit: This is a special credit card for medical treatment. A doctor’s office can help you sign up for this plan.
  • Denefits: This is a payment plan that divides your expenses into monthly bills and covers chiropractic treatment.
  • Discount Medical Plans: Discount medical plans are special, low-cost health plans that can dramatically lower your treatment cost. At Precision Spinal Care, we use a discount medical plan called Chiro Health USA.
  • Paying out of pocket: Paying directly out of pocket is an option when it comes to funding medical care including chiropractic treatment.

Personal injury lien

If you have been injured in an event like an automobile accident and have filed a personal injury suit, the money from that suit can be used to pay for your chiropractic care. A personal injury lien, or medical lien, can be filed by your chiropractor to be directly reimbursed for your care from the personal injury suit. If the chiropractor accepts a personal injury lien instead of direct payment, you will not have out of pocket expenses. Precision Spinal Care accepts personal injury liens.

4. How long will it take for me to see results?

How long it will take for you to see results from your chiropractic sessions depends on multiple factors. This includes both the nature and severity of your spinal problem. For example, a person with a herniated spinal disc from degenerative disc disease will have a different spinal problem and course of therapy than a person suffering whiplash from a car accident. You will likely not receive a treatment on your first visit to a chiropractor. However, you should receive a full evaluation, including a physical exam, review of your medical records, and imaging like X-Rays if appropriate. After this evaluation, your chiropractor can help set your expectations about how long it may take you to notice improvement in your condition, as well as what goals of care you should expect. Should I continue chiropractic care?

Determining whether to continue chiropractic care comes down to whether your condition is stable or improving with continued care. You can achieve this by:

  • Setting a baseline for your condition: It is important to identify your condition’s starting point before you began chiropractic care. For some people, this may include subjective metrics like pain, flexibility, or ability to perform activities of daily living. For others, this may be objective data like spine imaging results or orthopedic exams.
  • Making sure your chiropractor reevaluates your condition regularly: Generally, you will get a reevaluation within 30 days of starting treatment to see how well you are responding. Your chiropractor should discuss the results with you to determine how your treatment is progressing.
  • Discussing treatment expectations with your chiropractor: Making sure that both you and your chiropractor are on the same page when it comes to your goals of care is key. Your chiropractor will be able to tell you how much improvement to expect from chiropractic, and how long you should need to continue therapy.
  • Making recommended lifestyle changes: Often, your chiropractor will often recommendlifestyle changes and treatments for you to do at home. These can include exercises as well as dietary changes. Make sure you have carried out the recommended changes to give chiropractic a full chance to work.

Should I get a second opinion about chiropractic care?

Because many treatment options exist for chronic spine-related pain, your choices can seem overwhelming. Seeking the expertise of credentialed spine-care specialists — including your chiropractor — is important. The most important factor in whether to seek a second opinion is your comfort level with your care. Ideally, you should have as much information as possible about your condition and know exactly what your treatment options are. Questions to ask if you are considering getting a second opinion about chiropractic care include:

  • Has the chiropractor performed a thorough examination and performed appropriate tests like X-Rays or an MRI? Proper examination and diagnosis is vital to figuring out the cause of your back pain so it can be treated. Reevaluation and treatment modification should occur on a regular basis during your treatment, generally within the first 30 days.
  • Has the chiropractor explained your test results? Before treatment begins, it is important that you have an understanding of what the test results indicate, and what they mean for your long-term spine health.
  • Has the chiropractor explained the treatment plan to you? It is important that your doctor sets expectations for your care including what improvement to expect, and in what timeframe.
  • Has your doctor suggested alternative treatments or providers? Many factors contribute to spine health. Your chiropractor may recommend therapies ranging from routine medical care like physical therapy to evidence-based alternative medicine to help you achieve your goals.

5. What makes Precision Spinal Care unique compared to other care providers?

  • Diagnosis and treatment is based on precision x-ray analysis and orthopedic measurements
  • Treatments are light and gentle, requiring no manual manipulation of the head and neck
  • The principles of diagnostic testing using computerized mensuration are recognized by the AMA and there is ongoing research in the NUCCA work as it is the only chiropractic technique to be recognized and published in an outcome study in a medical journal
  • NUCCA has been in existence since 1966

6. How can such a light pressure make such dramatic changes?

For the same reason why one is able to move a pile of heavy bricks with a light push of a wheelbarrow: leverage. Although the patient feels only a slight pressure behind their ear while being adjusted, there is adequate force being put into the neck. Using the first vertebra and the weight of the head to gain a biomechanical advantage, the doctor places their own body on a calculated angle to ensure the adjustment is specific to the patient’s individual misalignment. The force generated by the doctor is transferred to the patient in such a gentle and precise fashion that many patients are unaware of any intervention whatsoever.


7. How can chiropractic care help treat auto accident injuries?

Automotive accidents can cause damage to soft tissues not easily diagnosed without a specialist. Many common treatments involve pain medication and muscle relaxers. While these treatments may temporarily alleviate neck pain and back pain, the underlying cause of your neck pain or back pain requires precise and delicate adjustments to properly realign your spine. Precision Spinal Care in Chesapeake, VA is the only local NUCCA treatment clinic dedicated to non-evasive and precision adjustments to align your spine and correct the source of pain. In most cases, we remove your need for pain medication.


8. How can you help me with my migraine/headache?

Many headaches have a mechanical component of the way the head and neck align that can trigger joint pressure that radiates into the head. A proper mechanical diagnosis with a thorough history, functional exam and proper imaging for biomechanics can often reveal the cause of migraine, cluster and tension headaches. Dr. Packer is board certified in NUCCA (a specialty in the upper cervical spine) and credentialed in spinal biomechanical engineering to help accurately diagnose the cause of your headaches. When you’re considering your options for a headache and migraine chiropractic professional in Chesapeake, VA, you don’t need to look any further than Precision Spinal Care. We draw from extensive industry experience to offer exceptional services that are tailored to fit each individual patient’s needs. Regardless of the level of pain you’re experiencing, we believe we can help.


9. How will Precision Spinal Care help with pain?

At Precision Spinal Care, we provide high-quality back pain therapy at our office in Chesapeake, VA. We’ll offer you sound advice about your situation and strive to reduce your pain. Whether you have been in a car accident or you’re dealing with chronic pain, we want to be the office you turn to for treatment. Our top priority is to improve the quality of our patients’ lives. Our comprehensive services may improve the overall alignment of your body through the NUCCA method. There are many benefits to seeking chiropractic care, and we educate our patients about their different options


10. What conditions do chiropractors treat?

Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) care for patients of all ages, with a variety of health conditions. They are especially well known for their expertise in caring for patients with back pain, neck pain and headaches using their highly skilled manipulations or chiropractic adjustments. DCs also care for patients with a wide range of injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, which includes the muscles, ligaments and joints. These painful conditions may involve or impact the nervous system, which can cause referred pain and dysfunction distant to the region of injury. In addition, chiropractors offer advice to patients on diet, nutrition, exercise, healthy habits, and occupational and lifestyle modification.


11. Is chiropractic treatment safe?

Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest nondrug, noninvasive forms of health care available for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints. Although chiropractic has an excellent safety record, no health treatment is completely free of potential adverse effects. The risks associated with chiropractic, however, are very small. Many patients feel immediate relief following chiropractic treatment, but some may experience mild soreness, stiffness or aching, just as they do after some forms of exercise. Current research shows that minor discomfort or soreness following spinal manipulation typically fades within 24 hours.


12. Does chiropractic treatment require a referral from an MD?

A referral is usually not needed to see a doctor of chiropractic (DC); however, your health plan may have specific referral requirements. You may want to contact your employer’s human resources department—or the insurance plan directly—to find out if there are referral requirements. Most plans allow you to just call and schedule an appointment with a chiropractor.


13. Is chiropractic treatment appropriate for children?

Yes. Chiropractic care is included in most health insurance plans, including major medical plans, workers’ compensation, Medicare, some Medicaid plans, and Blue Cross Blue Shield plans for federal employees, among others. Chiropractic care is also available to active-duty members of the armed forces at more than 60 military bases and is available to veterans at more than 60 major veterans medical facilities.


14. What type of education and training do chiropractors have?

Doctors of chiropractic are educated as primary contact healthcare providers, with an emphasis on diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system (the muscles, ligaments and joints of the spine and extremities) and the nerves that supply them. Educational requirements for doctors of chiropractic are among the most stringent of any of the healthcare professions. The typical applicant for chiropractic college has already acquired nearly four years of pre-medical undergraduate college education, including courses in biology, inorganic and organic chemistry, physics, psychology and related lab work.


15. Are there chiropractic adjustment side effects?

Traditional, more interventional, treatments like surgery can have serious side effects that are long-term. With chiropractic care, the side effects, if any, maybe a bit of soreness that is usually gone within a day. Typically, side effects may include minor soreness at the area of treatment. Mayo Clinic also reports that some patients may experience headaches or fatigue following the procedure. Conservative care as a whole-a theory that is at the foundation of chiropractic care-strives to offer treatments such as chiropractic care and other exercises or treatments that have few or no side effects for patients. Then the healthcare team can gauge their effectiveness to manage the pain condition. If little progress is seen, then and only then will a doctor who practices conservative care begin to tap into more traditional treatments.


16. What Is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractors believe the body’s musculoskeletal structure must be aligned correctly to prevent health issues. Chiropractic care draws upon this belief, which is why chiropractors often focus on the condition of your spine. Each patient receives care tailored toward their unique symptoms. When you visit a chiropractor, services may include manual manipulation, spinal decompression, laser therapy, acupuncture, therapeutic massage, or cryotherapy. Chiropractic treatments are non-surgical and non-invasive.


17. Is Chiropractic Care a New Concept?

Many patients are cautious about new treatments, and understandably so. However, chiropractic care has been around for more than a century. Daniel David Palmer launched the profession in 1895 after allegedly restoring the hearing of a deaf janitor. Palmer performed a spinal manipulation on the janitor, helping him eliminate his hearing loss. Standards for chiropractors were somewhat lax in the 1960s, which inspired some criticism regarding the profession. Requirements are much more stringent now, and chiropractors have licensed doctors with extensive training.


18. Can You Receive Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy?

Chiropractic care is generally safe during pregnancy, but it’s a good idea to double-check with your OB/GYN before scheduling an appointment. Many patients find that chiropractic treatments help alleviate the aches commonly associated with pregnancy.


19. Why is there a popping sound when a joint is adjusted?

Adjustment (or manipulation) of a joint may result in the release of a gas bubble between the joints, which makes a popping sound. The same thing occurs when you “crack” your knuckles. The noise is caused by the change of pressure within the joint, which results in gas bubbles being released. There is usually minimal if any, discomfort involved.


20. What makes the sound during adjustments?

Actually, adjustments do not always produce a sound. However, some techniques do create a “popping” sound. This audible release is the result of gas shifting in the joint; similar to the noise created by “cracking” your knuckles. This sound is painless and causes no harm.


21. Is chiropractic care addictive?

Chiropractic is no more addictive than exercise, proper diet, or brushing your teeth. Chiropractors recommend getting your spine checked for subluxations periodically throughout your lifetime because it is healthy for you to do so. Patients under long-term chiropractic care report an overall sense of health and well-being, far beyond diet and exercise alone.


22. How do you get Subluxations?

There are three basic causes of vertebral subluxation. Physical stresses on the spine and nervous system may include slips and falls, motor vehicle accidents, repetitive motion, and improper sleeping. Chemical stress includes smoking, alcohol abuse, not drinking enough water, improper diet, or the overuse of drugs or medications. Finally, emotional stress is a major cause of subluxation due to its effect on the hormonal and muscular systems of the body. Regardless of the cause, these subluxations need to be detected and removed.


23. Can I tell if I have a subluxation?

Actually, you can have subluxations and not even know it. Like the early stages of tooth decay, subluxations can be present long before any symptoms emerge. Only chiropractors have the specific training to detect subluxation. Using special techniques like x-ray, surface electromyography, thermal scanning, and postural analysis, chiropractors can determine whether or not subluxations are present.


24. Why do chiropractors take X-rays?

In order to properly diagnose a patient’s condition, x-rays are commonly taken. These x-rays are used to check vertebral alignment, disc degeneration, proper curvature, scoliosis, and other serious pathology. Many chiropractors use x-rays to document a patient’s progress as well. With the advancement of high-speed film and limited exposure, the amount of radiation used is far outweighed by the useful information gained by actually seeing the patient’s spine.


25. Why should I seek chiropractic care if I don’t feel any pain?

It is essential to seek chiropractic care even if you do not feel any pain. This is because chiropractic care can help to prevent injuries and pain before they start. By maintaining a healthy spine, you will be less likely to experience back pain in the future. In addition, chiropractic care can also help improve your overall posture and alignment. This can lead to many benefits, such as increased energy and improved circulation.


26. How often should I receive chiropractic adjustments?

The frequency of your chiropractic adjustments will depend on several factors, such as your age, lifestyle, and the severity of your pain. It is recommended that you consult with your chiropractor to determine the best treatment plan for you. In some cases, adjustments may be needed every week. However, in other cases, adjustments may only be necessary every few weeks or months.


27. Does chiropractic hurt?

No, chiropractic does not hurt. Chiropractic care is often used to relieve pain. However, you may feel a bit sore after your adjustment. This is because your body is adjusting to the new alignment of your spine. The soreness should go away within a day or two. If you experience any pain that persists past this point, consult with the chiropractor or your primary care physician.


28. Can chiropractic help with tendonitis?

Yes, chiropractic care can help tendonitis. This is because chiropractic care can help to reduce inflammation and improve the range of motion. In addition, chiropractic care can also help to strengthen the muscles and tissues around the affected area. This can help to prevent further injuries and pain.


29. Can chiropractic help with Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a condition that affects the muscles and tendons in your arm, causing pain and stiffness. Chiropractic care can help with tennis elbow pain by reducing inflammation and improving the range of motion. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to treat tennis elbow, including manual therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation. If you are experiencing pain from the tennis elbow, contact a chiropractor today to see how they can help you.


30. What kind of things should I tell my chiropractor about?

When you visit Precision Spinal Care for the first time, our chiropractor will ask you about your medical history and symptoms. It is important to be as honest and open as possible when answering these questions. The more information our chiropractor has, the better they will be able to treat your back pain. Some of the most important things to mention are recent injuries, any previous back pain you have had, and any medications you are currently taking. In addition to this, you should also explain your history of injuries and medical experiences.


31. What type of pain is chiropractic unable to cure?

Chiropractic care is not a cure-all, but it can provide relief for many different types of pain. However, there are some injuries and conditions that chiropractors cannot treat. These include bone fractures, degenerative diseases, and conditions that require surgery, among many other things. If you are unsure whether chiropractic care is right for you, we recommend that you schedule a consultation with our chiropractor. They will be able to assess your case and determine the best course of treatment.


32. What can physical therapy help with?

Physical therapy is often recommended in conjunction with chiropractic care. This is because physical therapy can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles that support your spine. By doing this, physical therapy can help to prevent future back pain. In addition to this, physical therapy can also help to relieve pain by increasing blood flow and improving range of motion.


33. Can a chiropractor accidentally break your neck??

No, chiropractors are highly trained professionals who know how to adjust the spine without causing any damage. Chiropractic adjustments are quite safe. The risk of serious injury from a chiropractic adjustment is very low. However, as with any type of medical treatment, there are some risks involved. If you have any concerns or questions, please contact our office. We would be happy to answer any of your questions.


34. What should I do if I am in a car accident?

In order to properly diagnose a patient’s condition, x-rays are commonly taken. These x-rays are used to check vertebral alignment, disc degeneration, proper curvature, scoliosis, and other serious pathology. Many chiropractors use x-rays to document a patient’s progress as well. With the advancement of high-speed film and limited exposure, the amount of radiation used is far outweighed by the useful information gained by actually seeing the patient’s spine.


35. How long will a back pain treatment take?

After your initial consultation and examination, your chiropractor can give you a better idea of how many treatments you may need. Most people report significant relief after just a few treatments.


36. Is spinal correction safe?

Yes, spinal correction is safe. It is a gentle and non-invasive procedure that does not require any snapping, twisting, or popping of the spine.


37. Why should I consider chiropractic care for neck pain?

If you are experiencing neck pain, it is important to address the cause of the pain rather than just treat the symptoms. Chiropractic therapy is designed to do just that—address the cause of your neck pain.


38. What can I do to prevent cervicogenic headaches?

There are several things you can do to help prevent cervicogenic headaches, such as maintaining good posture, practicing stress-relieving techniques, and seeing a chiropractor regularly.


39. I was injured in an auto accident a few years ago and am still experiencing pain. Should I see a chiropractor?

It is never too late to see a chiropractor after an auto accident injury. A chiropractor can help resolve chronic pain that may be caused by a previous auto accident injury. We aim to help you heal fully so that you can live your life pain-free.


40. The Next Step in Your Chiropractic Care Journey

As with any medical situation, you need to feel comfortable with your doctor and fully understand the path to recovery you are on. With any form of treatment you choose, have an open and honest discussion with your doctor about your medical history and any concerns you have about your treatment. When in doubt, ask questions. You deserve to be informed about your own diagnosis and treatment. At Precision Spinal Care I am happy to help you determine the best way to address your specific needs. If I can help, I will. If I determine it is best for you to see a different specialist, I will help you find a doctor who can address your needs. To learn the cause of your pain and the best way to treat you, make an appointment with me and let’s get started.


41. A few years back, I had a car accident. Can I seek treatment from a chiropractor?

No matter how long ago your accident occurred, you can always seek chiropractic care. If you’ve been in an auto accident, it’s important to see a chiropractor as soon as possible. Chiropractors are trained to deal with soft tissue injuries and can provide relief from pain and help with the healing process.


42. How many chiropractic adjustments do I need for lower back pain relief?

The number of adjustments will differ from person to person, depending on the severity of the problem and how long it has been present. In general, though, most people see a noticeable difference after just a few visits.


43. Can You Help With Whiplash?

Yes. Whiplash is a type of soft tissue injury that often occurs in car accidents. The sudden force of the impact can cause the neck and head to snap back and forth, resulting in pain and stiffness. Chiropractic care can help to relieve pain and promote healing.


44. Is Chiropractic Care for Headaches Worth It?

Yes. Chiropractic care is effective for treating headaches, including migraines. If you’re suffering from headaches, please give us a call. We would be happy to help you find relief.


45. Why Do Chiropractors Need My Medical History?

Chiropractors need to know your medical history to provide the best possible care. This information helps us to understand your overall health and any potential risk factors that might impact your treatment.


46. How can corrective chiropractic help with my injury?

If you have suffered an injury, corrective chiropractic care can help you heal and get back to your normal routine. By realigning the spine and correcting any misalignments, chiropractic care can help reduce pain, improve range of motion, and speed up the healing process. In addition, corrective chiropractic care can also help prevent further injuries by correcting any underlying issues that may have contributed to the initial injury.


47. How can I get relief from my stiff neck?

There are several things you can do to get relief from your stiff neck. Some people find that over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with a stiff neck. Others find that applying heat or cold to the affected area can also be helpful. You may also consider seeing a chiropractor. They can perform manual manipulations of the spine and neck. These manipulations can help to improve the range of motion and reduce pain and restore your normal joint function at the same time. In addition, chiropractors may also recommend certain exercises or stretches that can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the neck. This can help to prevent future stiffness and pain. If you are suffering from neck pain, stiffness or headaches, contact a chiropractor today to see how they can help you find relief.


48. Can chiropractic care improve my overall health?

There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that chiropractic care can have a positive impact on overall health. Chiropractic is a health care profession that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to treat these disorders, including manual therapy, physical therapy, and lifestyle counseling. With this, you won’t only get relief from pain but you’ll also feel more relaxed and keep other health problems at bay.


49. What does a family chiropractic expert do?

A family chiropractic expert is a trained and licensed healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system, with a focus on the spine. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to relieve pain, improve function and promote overall health and well-being. It is drug-free and is a hands-on approach to health care that can also prevent mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system.


50. Does chiropractic treatment for injuries hurt?

Chiropractic treatment typically doesn’t hurt despite the cracking sounds of bones that you will hear during the treatment. In fact, most people feel relief from their pain immediately after treatment. This is because chiropractors use precise and effective methods to target the part of your body that needs treatment and extra care. However, some people do experience mild discomfort during or after chiropractic treatment. Despite that, serious side effects are rare and are mild and temporary. If you feel pain during or after the treatment, it’s always best to discuss it with your chiropractor.

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