WHAT IS ADJUSTMENT?

A Chiropractic adjustment is the art of using a specific force in a precise direction, applied to a joint that is fixated, “locked up”, or not moving properly.  This adds motion to the joint, helping the bones gradually return to a more normal position and motion. The purpose of this safe and natural procedure is to permit improved spinal function, improved nervous system function and improved health.

There are many ways to adjust the spine. Usually the Doctor’s hands or a specially designed instrument delivers a brief and highly-accurate thrust.  Some adjusting methods are quick, whereas others require a slow and constant pressure.

After years of training and clinical experience, each Chiropractic Doctor becomes highly skilled in the delivery of a variety of adjusting approaches.

ARE ALL PATIENTS ADJUSTED IN THE SAME WAY?

The Doctor evaluates each patient’s   problem and develops an individual course of care. The resulting recommendations are based upon years of training and experience.

Some patients complain of headaches, my actually have a lower back problem that is causing a compensation reaction at the base of the skull. Other patients may be experiencing numbness and tingling in their fingers, when the actual problem is in the neck. Every patient presents a uniquely different spinal pattern.

Patients notice that their chiropractor care is delivered with confidence and precision. Each visit builds on the one before and while visits may seem similar, each patient’s care is uniquely different from every other patient.

CAN I ADJUST MYSELF?

Since a chiropractic adjustment is a specific force, applied in a specific direction, to a specific spinal joint, it is virtually impossible to adjust oneself.

It is possible to turn or bend or twist in certain ways to create a “popping” sound, like the sound that sometimes accompanies a chiropractic adjustment. Unfortunately, this type of joint manipulation is usually counterproductive, often making an already unstable area of the spine even more unsteady. Adjusting the spine is not for amateurs!

The best way to enjoy the healthful benefits of chiropractic care is to receive adjustments from a Doctor of Chiropractic. Even your Doctor must seek out the service of another colleague to help restore and maintain proper spinal function.

CAN I SPEED UP THE HEALING PROCESS?

While there aren’t any shortcuts to speed your body’s natural healing process, there’s a lot you can do to give yourself the best chance of a quick recovery.

During the healing process, proper nutrition is more important than ever. Make sure you eat balanced meals, and if you’re overweight, now would be a good time to slim down and reduce unnecessary stresses to your spine.

Perhaps most important of all, keep your appointments and follow our Chiropractic Doctor’s recommendations for optimum results.

WHY DO CHILDREN NEED CHIROPRACTIC CARE?

Since significant spinal trauma can occur at birth, many parents have their newborns checked for the spinal biomechanical problems.

Later, learning to walk, ride a bicycle, and other childhood activities can cause spinal problems.  While a bandage and some comforting words can help a skinned knee, the unseen damage to the child’s spine is the unique domain of a Chiropractic Doctor.

Many childhood health complaints that are brushed off as “growing pains” can often be traced to the spine.

Naturally, chiropractic adjusting procedures are modified to a child’s spine, particularly babies’.  Most parents report that their children enjoy their chiropractic adjustments.

WHY DO NEWBORNS GET ADJUSTMENTS?

Even today’s “natural” childbirth methods can affect an infant’s spine. Paediatric adjustments are gentle.

Knowing exactly where to adjust, the Doctor applies no more pressure than you’d use to test the ripeness of a tomato.

AM I TOO OLD FOR CHIROPRACTIC CARE?

More and more people are consulting chiropractic doctors, especially l in their later years. With growing concerns about over medication and the side effects of combining various prescription drugs, safe, natural chiropractic care is growing in popularity.

Restoring better spinal function can help improve mobility, comfort and endurance.

Many patients report improvements with arthritic symptoms and other chronic ailments often associated with the aging process.

The adjusting technique used by your Doctor will be modified for maximum comfort and results. As we get older and wiser, the simplicity and effectiveness of chiropractic care becomes more and more obvious.

HOW LONG WILL I NEED CHIROPRACTIC CARE?

Spinal problems, neglected since early childhood, may require ongoing supportive care for optimum spinal function. These long standing problems are often associated with muscle weakness, soft tissue damage and degenerative changes to the spine.

Some patients seek chiropractic care only when they experience an ache or pain. Chiropractors stand ready to help all patients, regardless of their health goals.

How long you decide to benefit from chiropractic care is always up to you.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF I HAVE A SPINAL DYSFUNCTION?

You can have spinal biomechanical joint dysfunction and not even know about it. Like the early stages of tooth decay. The results of a thorough examination can show the location and severity of any spinal biomechanical dysfunctions you may have.

CAN SPINAL BIOMECHANICAL JOINT DYSFUNCTIONS CLEAR UP ON THEIR OWN?

Sometimes. Today’s hectic lifestyles are a constant source of physical stressors to our body. Fortunately, our bodies have the ability to self-correct many of these problems as we bend and stretch, or when we sleep at night. When joint or muscle problems don’t resolve, you need to see a Chiropractor Doctor.

ARE CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENTS SAFE?

A New Zealand government study found that adjustments are “remarkably safe. By avoiding drugs and risky surgery, chiropractic care enjoys an excellent track record. A thorough exam can identify the rare person for whom chiropractic care might be unsuited.

WILL ADJUSTMENTS MAKE MY SPINE TOO LOOSE?

No. Only spinal joints that are “locked up” receive adjustments. This allows the muscles and ligaments to stabilise and heal.

CAN THE BONES MOVE TOO MUCH?

Highly unlikely, a chiropractic adjustment is special. It has the right amount of energy, delivered to an exact spot, at a precise angle, at just the right time. The intent is to get a “stuck” spinal joint moving again, helping reduce nerve interference. Years of training, practice and experience make chiropractic adjustments specific and sale.

WHAT MAKES THE SOUND DURING THE ADJUSTMENTS?

Lubricating fluids separate the bones of each spinal joint. Some adjusting methods can produce a sound when the gas and fluids in the joint shift. It’s much like opening a bottle of champagne or removing a suction cup. The sound is interesting, but it isn’t a guide to the quality or value of the adjustment.

HOW MANY ADJUSTMENTS WILL I NEED?

The number of adjustments varies with each patient and their individual health goals. Many patients sense progress within a week or two of frequent visits. Visits become less often as your spine stabilises. In chronic cases healing can take longer.

CAN I HAVE CHIROPRACTIC CARE AFTER BACK SURGERY?

Yes. Rest assured that your Chiropractic Doctor will avoid the surgically modified areas of your spine. Surgery often causes instability above or below the involved level. These areas will be the focus of your chiropractic care.

CAN PATIENTS WITH OSTEOPOROSIS GET CHIROPRACTIC CARE?

Of course.  When developing  a care plan, your Chiropractic Doctor considers the unique circumstances of each patient. There are many ways to adjust the spine. The method selected will be suited to your age, size and condition.

HOW LONG UNTIL I FEEL BETTER?

Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others discover it can take many weeks or months. Many factors can affect the healing process. How long have you had your problem? Are you keeping appointments? Are you getting the proper rest, exercise and nutrition? Do you smoke? Are you in otherwise good condition? Within a short period of time, most patients sense enough progress to fully carry out their Doctor’s ’recommendations.

WHAT IF CHIROPRACTIC DOES NOT WORK?

If we are unable to find and correct the cause of your particular health problem, we will refer you to another specialist who may be able to help. Your health is our primary goal.