For people who haven’t visited a chiropractor, it can seem like an unclear profession, and it may be difficult to discern the potential benefits that a chiropractor can offer you. To help clear up some of this confusion we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers.
Chiropractic is one of the safest forms of neuromusculoskeletal treatments available. This treatment option is non-invasive in contrast with many surgeries or procedures. Chiropractic does not use medications and can reduce or eliminate a patient’s need for pain medications. Many modern prescriptions contain addictive substances and when abused can lead to permanent damage or death.
Chiropractors are required to complete extensive medical education and complete more hours of in-class instruction than medical students training to become doctors. Students are also required to complete a residency program like that of medical doctors. This extensive training helps to create one of the safest and most effective treatment options available for a variety of conditions.
Yes. In fact, chiropractic care is often very beneficial for children. Children are generally more active and more prone to injury than any other age group. Their rapid growth also requires that any injuries are quickly addressed to minimize any adverse effects on their development. Unlike surgeries, chiropractic care also has minimal or no recovery time for patients. Children receive rapid care and feel normal more quickly than most other treatment options.
While most chiropractors don’t require a referral, your insurance plan might. If you have specific questions, it is important to call your insurance provider to check before you go to your first appointment. Most insurance plans allow you to call and schedule your appointment directly with a chiropractor. If you have any other questions or concerns, you can also contact your chiropractor for more information.
Chiropractors can admit and treat patients in hospitals and outpatient settings. This care often includes special equipment like medical labs, X-ray machines, and other diagnostic equipment.
Doctors of Chiropractic must complete one of the most rigorous education schedules of any medical professionals. Most students that are entering chiropractic college have already completed their bachelor’s degree in a medical field. Their education generally includes biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and lab work. Upon entrance to chiropractic school, students must complete an additional five years of classes and study orthopedics, human anatomy, physiology, neurology, nutrition, medical imaging, and exercise courses among others. This is in addition to the chiropractic courses where they learn the techniques and practice of spinal manipulation and other adjusting techniques.
At the completion of their class schedules, chiropractic students will have completed over 4,200 hours of classroom, clinical, and laboratory experience.
Yes. Most insurance plans currently cover chiropractic care and other plans are adding it every year. Medicare and Medicaid cover chiropractic care for their customers. Chiropractic care is also a covered benefit on over 60 military bases and an additional 60 veterans’ facilities. If you are unsure of your coverage, call and discuss this with your insurance provider today.
An adjustment of the spinal joints often allows for the release of gases that have built up in the spinal column. The sound is the pressure being released in the gas bubbles that were previously trapped in the joint. This popping sound is the same process as when somebody cracks their knuckles. There is often little or no discomfort associated with the sound or adjustment.
Chiropractic care is an essential field for the ongoing care and treatment of your medical issues. If you have additional questions or concerns about chiropractic care, please contact your chiropractor today and schedule an appointment. Their expertise is sure to leave you feeling empowered and ready to begin your healing journey.