What To Expect On Your Initial Visit

Your doctor will apply his hands to the area of your body to be treated in such a way as to mobilize your joints.  Commonly, a short impulse is applied to the joint.  This may cause an audible “pop” or “click,” similar to when you “crack” your knuckles. You may sense movement of the joint.

The goal of the adjustment includes the following:

• Increase the joint mobility/range of motion
• Relieve pain
• Reduce muscle spasm
• Restore optimal joint function

The number of treatments necessary to resolve a patient’s complaint is very individual.  Factors that may influence recovery include: the patient’s goals, health status, severity of the injury, chronicity, compliance with home/office therapies and the number of prior injuries.  Some patients simply seek relief from the immediate pain and may require only a few treatments, whereas others prefer to experience optimum health and require more intensive and comprehensive care.  The decision is always up to the patient.  Many people make adjustments part of their routine health maintenance; similar to exercising regularly.

Four types – Acute Care, Remobilization, Reactivation and Rehabilitation

Acute care is provided during the first few days following an injury.  It is intended to relieve pain, inflammation and muscle spasm. Therapeutic modalities such as ice, electrical muscle stimulation and ultrasound may be used to help achieve these results.

Remobilization is that stage of treatment directed at restoring optimal mobility and flexibility to your joints and muscles.  Spinal manipulation (adjustments) and muscle release techniques are often used to accomplish these goals.

Reactivation care is when exercises and flexibility training are included in the treatment strategy.  Scientific studies have shown that early introduction of exercise in the treatment process facilitates more rapid recovery from an injury and prevents recurrences.

Rehabilitation is the stage of care when more intensive training is necessary.  This is the time when coordination, strength and endurance are emphasized.  The goal of rehabilitation is to prevent recurrence of symptoms and re-injury.  The ultimate objective of this treatment is to teach patients how to control symptoms through exercise and correct posture.  Depending on the patient’s needs, one area may be emphasized.

After a patient has completed active care and has been discharged, supportive care may be indicated.  This type of treatment is directed at assisting in controlling periodic flare-ups that may occur.  Typically, a short course of treatment is indicated.  We are always available to you should you experience a period of symptom flare-up.  If you have not been seen in six months or longer, a brief examination will be performed.

Maintaining a healthy environment within the body is the key to feeling well and preventing disease.  Good spinal health is an integral component of the body’s defense system.  Patients who receive regular spinal adjustments understand the whole body benefit of a healthy spine.  The daily aches and pains experienced by others are only rare occurrences to those who receive routine preventive care.  The frequency of care is usually once per month in order to maintain improved health after active care has been completed.  Maintenance care includes adjustments and moist heat treatments.  Insurance companies do not pay for preventive / maintenance care.