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Why Should I see A Doctor of Chiropractic?
With the growing awareness of the connection between lifestyle and the quality of one's life has come an
appreciation for drugless method of healing. Chiropractic care focuses on structural alignment of the spine and extremities though also considers the role of diet, exercise, and spiritual and mental balance.
How is it Different?
Your spine houses and protects the spinal cord, the "wiring" that carries the signals back and forth between your
brain and every tissue and organ in your body. Where medicine uses drugs and surgery, chiropractic focuses on optimizing the body's innate healing abilities via a method known as spinal manipulation. By applying
pressure to restore normal mobility to malfunctioning areas of the spine, this often brings about pain relief and restoration of lost function. Treatment may also include appropriate physiotherapeutic modalities
(heat, cold, massage), advice on nutrition and lifestyle modification and customized exercise program. Our focus is on patient empowerment and independence through education and self-help procedures.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Although each patient reacts differently, the procedure is rarely painful. It can cause a variety of reactions from temporary
soreness to a sense of relief and well-being.
How Are Chiropractors Trained?
Following two years of pre-chiropractic education emphasizing the basic sciences, the core
curriculum chiropractors receive includes over 4,400 hours of classes in anatomy, physiology, pathology, diagnosis, laboratory, nutrition and many hours of training in physical medicine including a 550-hour
internship curriculum program--very similar to a medical school curriculum.
How Long Will it Take?
That depends on several factors. Your age, physical condition, previous history of accidents or surgeries, occupational
requirements and how well you adhere to our treatment program. Relief of pain usually happens quickly (within a month), though stabilizing your condition may take longer. This will be discussed with you before you
start treatment, based on your personal needs.
Is it expensive?
Not if you have the right kind of insurance. Most insurance companies and HMO's cover chiropractic to some extent. If you have been
involved in an auto accident or work injury, your care is usually provided with 100% coverage.
What If I Have No Insurance?
We will make a customized and affordable payment plan for you.
How Do I Know if I'm a Chiropractic Patient?
First, we'll start with a comprehensive history including everything from your past medical history,
lifestyle habits, job requirements, etc. to uncover hidden sources of stress in your life. This is followed by a very thorough physical examination to determine the cause of your problems. X-rays may be ordered on
occasion if you have a history of previous trauma or chronic complaints.
What Is The Treatment Like?
Treatment in our office is directed along a 4-phase recovery program:
- Acute Intervention - the use of limited rest, orthopedic support, non-narcotic supplementation (if necessary), ice or other modalities to control inflammation and alleviate
pain.
- Remobilization - the use of manipulation and/or mobilization to increase pain-free ranges of motion and minimize deconditioning.
- Rehabilitation - to restore strength and endurance through doctor-directed stretching and stabilization exercise.
- Life Style Modification - adaptation of daily activities and work habits to diminish the likelihood of recurrence.
What if I Don't Respond To Care?
We will normally take you on a trial basis of one month to gauge your response to treatment. If you have not benefited
by then, Dr. Canter will likely refer you to one of a network of medical or allied health care providers for follow up.
Are there any risks involved?
There are risks involved in all types of health care procedures. Chiropractic has a very low incidence of (iatronic) injury
as reflected in our relatively low malpractice rates particularly when compared with many medical practitioners. A thorough history-taking and physical examination by the doctor will help determine if you are not a
chiropractic patient. What few risks remain will be discussed with you before starting care as well as any treatment options.
Anything Else I Should Know About?
Yes. Our primary concern in our practice is the well-being of our patients. We go to great lengths to make our
patients feel comfortable and cared for with dignity, respect and the highest ethical standards. If at any time you feel otherwise once you become a patient, please let us know. We are here to serve you.
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