Chiropractic FAQs: What to Know About Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic FAQs

Throughout the years, we’ve fielded a lot of questions from patients regarding chiropractic care. Many of these questions are rooted in misunderstandings and misinformation surrounding chiropractic care, so we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions we get from both potential and existing patients and provide the relevant answers.

Q: What is chiropractic care?

A: Chiropractic is a non-invasive, drug-free method of physical treatment to alleviate a myriad of conditions, although it is most commonly sought after for back and neck pain. Chiropractors physically manipulate specific areas of the body to fix subluxations (spinal misalignments) that negatively affect nerves, muscles, and organs and can lead to other physical complications.

Q: At what age is it safe to start receiving chiropractic?

A: The short answer is: any age! Now for the longer answer; we are a family-oriented chiropractic practice, meaning we are licensed to treat people of all ages -- from toddlers to young kids and teenagers to the elderly.

Q: Is chiropractic painful?

A: No. While you may feel some pressure or temporary discomfort, chiropractic treatment is rarely painful. There may be some soreness the day after your first couple of sessions, but your body will get used to it, and the soreness fades over time. However, tell your chiropractor before you begin treatment if you've recently undergone surgery or experienced some sort of injury. If treatment starts to become painful, immediately let your chiropractor know.

Q: What kind of conditions can chiropractic treat?

A: While chiropractic treatment is most commonly used for back and neck pain, it can be used to treat a wide variety of ailments, including:

• ​Back pain
  
• Neck pain
  
• Disc Problems
  
• Headaches and migraines
  
• Sports injuries
  
• Whiplash and collision injuries
  
• Occupational injuries
  
• Sciatica​
  
• Fibromyalgia
  
• TMJ disorders
  

• ​Digestive problems
• Scoliosis
• Asthma
• Bed wetting
• Colic
• Stress
• Carpal tunnel
• Knee and ankle pain

Q: Why do chiropractors require so many visits?

A: One of the most prominent chiropractic myths is that once you start seeing a chiropractor, you need to see one for the rest of your life. While chiropractic care will have many benefits throughout your life, the truth is it’s entirely up to you how often you visit a chiropractor. Your chiropractor may recommend multiple weekly visits, but this depends on the severity of your spinal issues. New patients with several misalignments might be asked to come in for treatments multiple times a week, but treatments will become less frequent as your conditions improve.

Q: Do you need a referral to see a chiropractor?

A: In most cases, a referral is not needed to see a chiropractor. Some insurance plans may require a referral before covering chiropractic treatments, so check with your provider if a referral is needed. Petrak Family Chiropractic Center does not require a referral for new patients.

Q: Are chiropractors doctors?

A: Although chiropractors don’t usually have medical degrees, they are doctors nonetheless. To become licensed providers in the United States, chiropractors must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and pass a rigorous four-part national board exam.

Q: Does insurance cover chiropractors?

Yes, most insurance policies will cover chiropractic care. According to the American Chiropractic Association, an estimated 87% of insured American workers have policies that will cover it.

Q: Is chiropractic safe to receive after an injury?

A: Eventually, after the healing process, yes. However, it also depends on the injury. Breaking an ankle shouldn't affect treating back pain much, but recently undergoing back surgery will. Before you begin treatment, inform your chiropractor of any recent surgeries or injuries you've had during the initial consultation page.

Q: When should I see a chiropractor?

A: Any time! While chiropractic care is most often used for treating pain, seeing a chiropractor regularly, even if you don’t have any pre-existing pain. Chiropractic care strengthens the core muscles, preserves the spine, and promotes a healthier lifestyle that includes stretching, exercise, and a balanced diet.

Schedule Your First Chiropractic Appointment Today

It’s understandable to have many questions before starting any new medical care. The professionals at Petrak Family Chiropractic Center are here to answer any other questions you have about chiropractic care. Give us a call anytime or schedule a consultation today to see just how beneficial chiropractic care can be.

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