Question 1

What is chiropractic?

Accepted Answer

A health profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal adjustment and other joint and soft-tissue manipulation.

Question 2

What do chiropractors treat?

Accepted Answer

Chiropractors can treat a wide variety of disorders stemming from a mechanical origin. Some of the more common ones include:
 • Back pain
 • Neck pain
 • Headaches
 • Joint pain (e.g. shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle, foot)
 • Carpal tunnel
 • Rotator cuff tendonitis
 • Plantar fasciitis
 • Runner’s knee
 • TMJ syndrome
 • Sciatica
 • Sprain/strain of tendons/ligaments
 • Vertigo

Question 3

Is it safe?

Accepted Answer

Although chiropractic care is generally considered to be a very low-risk, non-invasive form of healthcare, no health intervention can ever be completely without risk. This is why Dr. Paul will take a detailed medical history and perform a thorough exam with each patient. This will allow him to figure out how he can help to address each patient’s individual problem in the safest way possible while minimizing any potential risks.
 
What are the risks and/or side-effects of chiropractic care?
The vast majority of patients do not experience significant side-effects with chiropractic care. However, depending on the nature of the condition being treated or the techniques used, some common side-effects of chiropractic treatment may include:
 • Soreness or stiffness at or near the area treated.
 • Bruising (usually only if aggressive instrument-assisted soft tissue manipulation is performed).
 • Transient dizziness.
Rare side-effects may include:
 • Sprain/strain of tendons/ligaments.
 • Increased pain in the area being treated.
Extremely rare side-effects may include:
 • Fracture
 • Joint dislocation
 • Stroke

Question 4

Will I have to get “cracked”?

Accepted Answer

There is no “one size fits all” in healthcare. Manual spinal manipulation is not right for everyone. It will only be recommended by your chiropractor if they feel it is necessary after performing a thorough examination. Even then, you will never be pressured into doing anything against your wishes. There are many alternative treatment options and techniques which do not involve “popping” or “cracking”. Please do not hesitate to talk to your chiropractor about any concerns you may have about spinal manipulation or any type of treatment.

Question 5

Once I start seeing a chiropractor, will I need to continue going forever?

Accepted Answer

The short answer is “no.” After the doctor completes your exam, you will be given a recommended treatment plan with specific goals in mind. Once those goals are achieved, you may be discharged from your treatment plan. Depending on the nature of their condition, some patients may choose to continue with maintenance care following the completion of their recommended treatment plan, however this is not required.

Question 6

How often will I need to come in?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the nature of your condition or injury. If the problem is minor, it may resolve within 1 to 3 visits. If you are dealing with a more severe injury and/or chronic pain, 2-3 visits per week may be recommended early on with the goal of reducing the frequency of treatments as your condition improves. Your chiropractor will go over all of this with you during your first visit.

FAQ