FAQs
What is chiropractic and how long has it been around?
Chiropractic is a health care profession that focuses on the spine and other joints of the body, and their connection to the nervous system. The word “chiropractic” means “to be done by hand.” Chiropractors specialize in spinal health and therefore, focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and conservative care of spine related disorders and other painful joints issues. Chiropractors collaborate with other health care providers every day. We are trained to refer you to the appropriate specialist when needed. Chiropractors use scientific research, clinical experience, and patient preferences to provide the best care possible.
D.D. Palmer founded chiropractic in 1895 and B.J. Palmer, son of D.D. Palmer, continues to develop chiropractic. Modern chiropractic care has been in existence for over 120 years.
How long does it takes for a person to become a chiropractor and what’s your curriculum like?
Chiropractic curriculum is a 4-year doctorate program. It includes a year and a half of clinical internship similar to medical doctor’s residency and national boards/licensing. To put into perspective, here is a chart showing chiropractic studies relative to medical studies:
How long will my conditions take to heal with chiropractic care?
Every condition is different. There are many factors that may contribute to a patient’s healing process. Everybody’s history is different from one another. For these reasons, every patient’s timeframe of healing will be different even if two patients present with the same symptoms. There is no set amount of time for one’s condition to heal. We respect everyone’s healing capacity and would never force a patient to heal faster than they can..
Once I start chiropractic do I have to go forever?
No, only as long as you want to continue to receive the benefits. Eliminating symptoms is only a part of chiropractic care. Maintenance of health and preventing illness is our goal – just like diet, exercise and dental care.
I don’t need to go to a Chiropractor since my pain is gone, right?
Pain is usually the first thing to go in the healing process. As soon as a broken arm is set, the pain goes away, but it takes time to heal. Cancer can develop 7 years before you are aware of symptoms! Even if you already feel good, couldn’t you feel better?
I can crack my own spine so why do I need to go?
Usually you are only able to adjust the joints that are easy to move, or hypermobile. It feels good for a while (endorphins release and muscles relax), but you probably have to repeat the process multiple times a day because you can’t get to the correct joints by yourself.
Isn’t that “popping” sound a bad thing?
No. When you are being adjusted, the joint capsule stretches, increasing the volume by 15-20%. A partial vacuum is created and the synovial fluid in your joints rapidly releases oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide gases due to the drop in pressure. It takes about 20 minutes for the gases to return to the synovial fluid.