Peel Chiropractic

Is chiropractic safe during pregnancy?

As the body changes very rapidly during pregnancy, there is a large amount of stress placed on the musculoskeletal system. The joints in the body try to compensate for these changes, and as a result, they are often sore and stiff. Your Chiropractor has special techniques that will help make you comfortable during all the stages of pregnancy. Chiropractic is safe for both the mother and fetus and often helps to reduce those typical pregnancy aches and pains.

What is the cracking sound?

Chiropractic treatment involves the manipulation of joints, with the goal of decreasing pain by improving movement and function within that joint. When a joint is adjusted (moved), there is a natural change in the internal pressure of that joint. This change results in the release of gas normally dissolved in the fluid which lubricates the joint. The release of this gas may produce a crack or pop sound similar to that produced when you open a can of soda.

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

Chiropractors are highly skilled in the hands-on art of spinal adjustment. An adjustment involves applying a specific force in a precise direction to a joint that is troublesome (for instance, it may be locked-up or not moving properly). The purpose of the adjustment is to help restore a more normal position or motion, often relieving pain. Using this technique, Chiropractors can treat any joint in your body from your spine all the way out to your fingers and toes.

What kinds of things can chiropractic help me with?

Chiropractors treat problems of the musculoskeletal system. This includes lower back pain, neck pain, headaches, disk herniations, plantar fascitis, jaw problems, muscle strains and sciatica. You do not always have to be in pain to consult a Chiropractor. With their unique vantage point, our Doctors can help you reduce the stress on the musculoskeletal system. Since this system uses a large percentage of the body's energy, optimizing the function of this system can have wide reaching effects.

What can I expect on my first visit?

Prior to meeting with the Chiropractor, you will be asked to complete a New Patient Admission Form. Using this form as a guide, you and the Chiropractor will discuss your health history in detail. This will be followed by a full physical examination. Your Chiropractor will then decide if further testing, such as x-rays or blood work, is required. You will then be presented with a report of findings, outlining your specific problem, treatment options and prognosis. Questions are always welcome.

Is chiropractic safe?

Research continues to support the safety and efficacy of chiropractic treatment. Chiropractors do not use drugs or surgery, which have their place but may produce side effects and complications. The one chiropractic treatment with any significant risk of harm is adjustment of the cervical spine (neck manipulation). As each patient is unique, each treatment and each adjustment is unique as well.

Once I go to the Chiropractor, do I have to go forever?

The choice to continue chiropractic care is always up to you. Although pain is the most common reason people initially go to the Chiropractor, chiropractic treatment often helps people reach an improved state of health. They have less pain, greater freedom of movement, better sleeping patterns and an improved sense of well-being. The daily rigors of life such as computer work, commuting, stress and lack of time for one's self are hard on the body.

What are the different types of care I can receive?

There are three stages of care. Initial Intensive Care (Crisis Management): The primary goal is symptom or pain relief. Rehabilitative Care: The focus here is on correcting or eliminating the source of the problem. This minimizes your likelihood of a relapse. Wellness Care: You have now returned to your pre-injury/illness state. Acknowledging that daily stresses and strains wear us all down, you choose to maintain an optimal level of functioning with periodic checkups.

How soon will I be better?

This is one of the most common questions we are asked. To provide you with realistic expectations, many factors affecting your recovery time must be taken into consideration, including: Acute vs. Chronic pain First episode or recurrent problem History of previous injuries General health General fitness level Poor postural hygiene Lifestyle Patient comprehension and compliance with recommendations Kept appointments Stress (physical/mental/chemical) Family history

Will I have to do exercises?

To optimize the effects of treatment, stretching and strengthening programs are almost always initiated. As always, the choice to follow instructions plays a very important role in both recovery and long-term prognosis/outcome. Continuing with your individualized exercise program can help you minimize the occurrence of future episodes. This leaves you more time and energy to do the things you want to do.