FAQs

Will I need X-Rays?

x-rayThat determination can only be made after a thorough history and examination is performed. Most patients don’t need X-Rays to begin treatment. I’m very conservative regarding X-Rays, they are only taken when it’s clinically necessary.

Do Chiropractors treat Migraine Headaches?

Yes. Many patients not only get symptomatic relief, but are finally free from their chronic headaches. The first step is to determine the true cause of the migraine, many migraines are musculoskeletal in origin and respond well to Chiropractic care. Other factors can’t be overlooked, however. Everything from diet to posture will be evaluated so we can determine the true source of the headaches. This detailed workup will allow us treat the migraines, but more importantly take action to prevent future migraines.

Is Chiropractic safe for kids?

BabyinHand_thumbAbsolutely! Kids are very resilient, but they take many spills as they learn to crawl and walk. Fortunately, spinal stability improves as their balance and coordination develops. Current whiplash research has shown that you’re more prone to neck injuries when your head is large or your neck is small. This perfectly describes young kids, making them more vulnerable when they take a spill. Chiropractic is a great natural approach to a healthy childhood.

I heard once you go to a Chiropractor, you have to keep going back, is this true?

No. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. There is some repetition in the beginning of care, but your treatment will taper as your condition resolves. Many people choose to continue working with their Chiropractor after resolution because it compliments their healthy lifestyle. I compare it to Dentistry. Doc fixes the problem, then educates you about prevention (brush, floss, etc). You still go in periodically to get your teeth cleaned and have the Doc look around, to catch things when they’re small rather than wait until there’s a big problem. Chiropractic is the same, ounce of prevention vs pound of cure.

What’s this I hear about Chiropractic helping Ear Infections?

ear-infectionThe Eustachian Tube needs to regularly open and close, this allows equalization of pressure at the ear drum and proper drainage of the inner ear. This opening and closing is done by muscular connections to the bones in your neck. If these bones are out of alignment, the muscles can’t open the tube properly, thus infectious material can’t drain out. Chiropractic adjustments are a mechanical solution to a mechanical problem. They realign the spine so the tubes can open and the infection can drain out. Antibiotics are often ineffective because they do nothing to help drainage. Studies show Chiropractic treatments for ear infections to be 80% effective.

Why would I see a Chiropractor if my back doesn’t hurt?

My practice model is: Problem. Solution. PREVENTION. Many people see Chiropractors for injury prevention. This could be anyone from a desk jockey to a professional athlete. Getting your spine checked regularly is a way to prevent problems from sneaking up on you. By the time you feel pain, something is already wrong. Many athletes also want to naturally maximize their performance. In sports where precision, balance, and coordination are key, athletes trust their Chiropractors to keep them in the game, and at the top of their game.

Is it safe to get adjusted when you’re pregnant?

PregnancyThumbAbsolutely! In fact it is highly recommended. Many of our patients are direct referrals from local OB/GYNs. Pregnancy can be a wonderful, but physically challenging endeavor. The accelerated weight gain and redistribution put stress on the joints of the spine, pelvis and hips. Chiropractic care is a safe, drug-free solution to the mechanical problems that can occur during pregnancy, keeping your body more comfortable and in good alignment.

Post partum adjustments can be just as important if not more important to a mother’s physical well-being. As the body returns to its pre-pregnancy state, chiropractic adjustments help guide everything back into place. Keeping your body pain free during and after pregnancy allows your energy to be directed where it’s needed most, toward your baby.

Does my insurance cover Chiropractic care?

Nearly all private insurance plans cover Chiropractic care. In cases such as on the job injuries or motor vehicle collisions, Chiropractic care is covered by the associated insurance (L&I, PIP, etc). I am a preferred provider for most major insurance plans. If you have any insurance related questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

I have a ‘slipped disc’, do Chiropractors treat this?

slipped-discYes. I became a Chiropractor because I herniated 2 discs in my back when I fell skiing and traditional treatments didn’t work. Surgeons wanted to operate, but I wanted to explore all my options before going under the knife. With Chiropractic care I was able to avoid surgery and return to my active lifestyle 100%. Numerous studies have shown how Chiropractic treatments can take pressure off bulging discs, allowing them to heal naturally. I’ve helped countless patients over the years recover from disc injuries and avoid surgery.

Do I need a referral to be seen by a Chiropractor?

No (99% of the time). There are very rare occasions where an insurance plan still requires a referral to see a specialist, but for almost all plans those extra steps are gone. The majority of patients are able to self refer to a Chiropractor for evaluation and treatment. Having said that, I’m a huge fan of communication between healthcare providers. If you choose, I’m happy to send a report to your primary care doctor so they know your diagnosis and treatment plan.