What is
Chiropractic?
In the nearly one hundred years of
its development, chiropractic science has grown to
major stature in the field of the healing arts and has
reached millions of people. With the rate of growth
steadily increasing, chiropractors have found a
continuing need to introduce new patients with to
nature of chiropractic care. This brochure has been
prepared to serve that purpose.
A chiropractor works directly and indirectly with
the nervous system. Every function of the body is
under the control of this system. In fact, the nervous
system is the master system that controls all
systems of the body, including the glandular,
reproductive, digestive, eliminative, respiratory, and
circulatory systems.
Each and every organ, tissue, and cell is
controlled by nerve impulses traveling from the brain
to all parts of the body. The nerves leave the spinal
cord through openings between movable spinal bones
called vertebrae. When vertebrae become misaligned,
they interfere with the normal function of these
nerves and can cause pain and malfunction of the
nervous system. These misalignments are called
subluxations.
A chiropractor's main objective is to determine the
exact degree of spinal misaligments through thorough
examination and x-rays. Proper spinal adjustments are
given to remove these subluxations and to help the
patient lead a pain-free, healthier life. It has been
said that chiropractic care can often add life to
years and years to life.
Health History
The first step that a new chiropractic patient
takes involves filling out a complete health history
form to identify old injuries, chronic problems, and
present symptoms. Staff members are always available
to assist patients with the process.
Consultations
After reviewing the health history, the doctor
meets with the patient to discuss their problems and
determine how they can best be treated through
chiropractic care.
Exam: Tests
Checking spinal range of motion is a regular part
of the physical exam. Reflexes are tested and other
chiropractic tests are performed, such as palpation of
spinal soft tissue
Exam: X-Rays
Full-length x-rays of the spine are also an
important aspect of chiropractic. These standing
x-rays show the spine in its natural weight-bearing
state and careful analysis will identify areas of
subluxation.
Teamwork
All staff members are highly trained and believe
that each patient is unique and deserves individual
attention. We strive to achieve this goal together.
Explanation
After the doctor has studied the health history and
x-rays, he meets with the patient to explain the
results of the exam and the recommended course of
chiropractic care. Complete information is available
so that all questions that the patient may have can be
answered.
Gentle Care
Chiropractic can benefit patients of all ages.
Children are the easiest to help since their spinal
problems are not long-standing and they respond
quickly. Patients of all ages find relief through
chiropractic care because the cause of the problem is
treated, rather than its effect.