Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic

How does chiropractic work?: Chiropractic works because you are a self-healing, self-regulating organism controlled by your nervous system. Millions of instructions flow from your brain, down the spinal cord, and out to every organ and tissue. Signals sent back to the brain confirm if your body is working right. Improper motion or position of the moving bones of the spine called a "subluxation" can interfere with this vital exchange by irritating nerves and compromising the function of affected organs and tissues. Specific spinal adjustments can help improve mind/body communications. Health often returns with improved nervous system control of the body.
What’s an adjustment?: Chiropractic adjustments involve a quick thrust that helps add motion to spinal joints that aren't moving right. Dr. Petrice uses her hands as well as an instrument called an Activator and drop table work. Dr. Petrice is also certified in Webster technique for caring for pregnant women.
What is a subluxation?: A subluxation is when the spinal bones misalign and cause irritation to the nerves. This irritation to the nerves alters the message between the brain and the body. This is why chiropractic care often helps individuals with asthma, ear infections, colic, headaches, constipation, numbness in the hands and feet, etc. By removing interference to the nervous system your body is able to heal itself.
How do I know if I have a subluxation?: You can have subluxations and not even know it. Like the early stages of tooth decay or cancer, subluxations can be present before symptoms appear. The results of a thorough examination can show the location and severity of subluxations you may have.
How do you get subluxations?: There are three basic causes of subluxations. Physical causes such as slips, falls, accidents, repetitive motions and improper lifting. Emotional causes, such as stress, anger and fear can cause subluxations. Chemical causes could include alcohol, drugs (prescription and over- the-counter), air and water quality, and poor diet.
How long will I need chiropractic care?: It depends. Every individual case is evaluated with a complete health history, chiropractic, orthopedic, neurological and physical exam. Recommendations are then given based on the findings and our experience caring for others with similar conditions. Many people choose ongoing wellness care to keep themselves functioning at the highest level possible.
Are chiropractic adjustments safe?: Yes. 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. Compare the statistics. Adjustments are safer than taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
How long until I'll 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 your 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 complete their doctor’s recommendations.
Can I adjust myself?: No. Some people can make their joints "pop" but that’s not an adjustment! Worse, damage can occur by mobilizing a joint with weakened muscles and ligaments. Adjustments are specific and take years to master. Even your chiropractic doctor must consult a colleague to benefit from chiropractic care.
Why do newborns get adjustments?: Even today’s "natural" childbirth methods can affect an infant’s spine. Preliminary studies suggested that colic, unusual crying, poor appetite, ear infections or erratic sleeping habits can be signs of spinal distress. Pediatric 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. Please visit the International Chiropractic Pediatrics Association website for more information on children and chiropractic.
Are all patients adjusted the same way?: No. Each patient’s spine and care plan is unique. With 24 moving bones in the spine (that can each move in seven different directions!) we see a wide variety of spinal patterns. Each patient’s care is custom tailored for their age, condition and health goals.
Will adjustments make my spine too loose?: No. Only the spinal joints that are "locked up" receive adjustments. This allows weakened muscles and ligaments to stabilize and heal.
What makes the sound during the adjustment?: Lubricating fluids separate the bones of each spinal joint. Some adjustments can produce a sound when the gas and fluids in the joint shift. It’s much like opening a bottle of champagne. The sound is interesting, but isn't a guide to the quality or value of the adjustment.
Can subluxations clear up on their own?: Sometimes. Today’s hectic lifestyles are a constant source of subluxations. 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 subluxations don't resolve, you need to see a chiropractic doctor!
What if my policy doesn't cover chiropractic?: Your health affects everything you do and everyone you know. It is your most valuable possession. Yet, each of us is free to place a different value on our health. It’s convenient when an insurance company or third party helps pay the bill. But be careful! Don't allow the profit motive of a huge corporation to make the decision for you. Find out how we make chiropractic care affordable for just about anyone.
Will I receive any medication for my pain?: No. Chiropractic doctors don't dispense drugs. Because we rely on natural methods, we can show you how to use ice to control painful symptoms.
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.

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