What does a Chiropractor Do?

Understanding Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care involves the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those affecting the spine. A Doctor of Chiropractic, commonly referred to as a chiropractor, is a healthcare professional who specializes in manual manipulation of the spine, joints, and soft tissues. Chiropractors aim to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall function through a holistic and non-invasive approach.  See our prior blog post, When Should I see a Chiropractor

During an initial consultation, a chiropractor will typically perform a physical examination and take a detailed medical history. This allows them to assess any underlying conditions or causes of pain and tailor treatment to address specific needs. Chiropractic care typically involves manual adjustments, which apply controlled force to a joint or spinal segment in order to restore proper alignment and range of motion. In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may also use a variety of supplementary therapies such as massage, stretching, and exercise to improve overall function and provide pain relief. 

While chiropractic care has traditionally been associated with back and neck pain, it can also be an effective treatment option for a variety of other conditions. Chiropractors can assist with conditions such as headaches, joint pain, and even digestive issues. Furthermore, chiropractic care can help to prevent future injuries and promote long-term musculoskeletal health through ongoing maintenance and advice on lifestyle and exercise.

Ultimately, chiropractic care offers a safer, non-invasive alternative to traditional pain management methods such as medication and surgery. By addressing the underlying cause of pain rather than simply treating symptoms, chiropractic care can provide long-lasting relief and promote overall health and wellness. As such, it is an increasingly popular form of complementary and alternative medicine for those seeking a holistic approach to their healthcare.

Common Conditions Treated by Chiropractors

Chiropractors are highly skilled and qualified healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. They use a variety of techniques and therapies, including spinal adjustments, massage, and exercise programs, to alleviate pain and restore proper function to the body. Chiropractors are trained to treat a wide range of conditions related to the spine, joints, and soft tissues, which can include but are not limited to:

1. Neck pain: Neck pain is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, such as poor posture, muscle strain or sprain, degenerative changes in the cervical spine, or neck injuries. Chiropractors can use manual therapy techniques such as cervical adjustments, mobilization, and massage to help alleviate neck pain.

2. Should you see a Chiropractor for Lower Back Pain? Back pain can be caused by numerous factors such as muscle strain or sprain, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, and sciatica. Chiropractors can use several techniques to reduce pain, including the spinal adjustment, spinal decompression, and therapeutic exercises.  Trying to understand what are the best treatments for lower back pain can be confusing, but talking to one of our doctors can help decide if its right for you. 

3. Headaches: Headaches are commonly related to tension headaches, migraines or cluster headaches, and they are often a result of poor posture or neck misalignments. Chiropractors can use spinal adjustments, massage techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques to help alleviate headache symptoms.

4. Whiplash: Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, typically in a car accident. It can cause severe pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and back. Chiropractors can use manual therapy techniques such as cervical adjustments or traction therapy to treat whiplash and speed up the healing process.

5. Sports injuries: Sports injuries such as sprains, strains, and joint pain can be treated by chiropractors using a combination of spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and rehabilitation exercises. By targeting the root cause of the injury, the chiropractors can help to reduce the severity of the problem and improve recovery timing.

6. Neurological Conditions: Chiropractors treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, and they take a holistic approach to healthcare that addresses the underlying cause of pain or injury. By working with patients to understand their medical history and lifestyle, chiropractors can provide targeted treatment and advice to assist patients to regain their health and wellbeing.

7. Migraines are a type of headache that is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Many patients who suffer from migraines turn to chiropractic care as an alternative to medication. Chiropractors can help realign the spine, reducing tension in the neck and shoulders, which can trigger migraines.

8. Sciatica is a condition that causes pain in the sciatic nerve, which runs down the back of the leg. It can be caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other conditions. Chiropractors perform adjustments to help realign the spine and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can help alleviate the pain associated with sciatica.

9.Neuropathy, on the other hand, is a condition that affects the nerves, causing pain, tingling, and numbness in the extremities. Chiropractors can help by performing adjustments to the spine that can reduce the pressure on the nerves responsible for the symptoms of neuropathy. Chiropractic care is often used in conjunction with other treatments to manage the symptoms of neuropathy.

In conclusion, chiropractors are experts in treating various types of conditions, including neurological disorders. Migraines, sciatica, and neuropathy are just a few examples of the conditions that chiropractors can treat. For many people, chiropractic care can be an effective alternative to medication and other traditional treatments. If you suffer from a neurological condition, speak to your chiropractor to determine if chiropractic care is right for you. If you need a chiropractor you can reach our site at

Chiropractor Education

Chiropractic education is a specialized field of study that prepares individuals for a career in holistic healthcare. In order to become a licensed chiropractor, students must complete an accredited doctor of chiropractic program. This includes completing a minimum of 4,200 hours of academic and clinical training.

During the course of their studies, chiropractic students learn about the anatomy of the human body, as well as the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. They also learn how to diagnose and treat a variety of health conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and sports injuries. In addition, chiropractic education emphasizes the use of non-invasive, drug-free treatments such as spinal manipulation, massage therapy, and acupuncture.

After graduation, chiropractors must pass a licensing exam in order to practice in their respective state. Continuing education is also a requirement, as chiropractic is continually evolving as a field of study. Overall, the education and training required to become a chiropractor is extensive, but the end result is a career that provides patients with natural, safe, and effective healthcare options.

Does medical insurance cover chiropractic care?

To see what Insurance covers Chiropractic, our office takes please check out our website.  When it comes to healthcare, many people are unsure of what their medical insurance is able to cover. One specific question people may have is if their medical insurance will cover chiropractic care. The short answer is, it depends on your insurance plan.

Some insurance plans offer coverage for chiropractic care, while others do not. If you are considering seeing a chiropractor, it’s important to review your insurance policy to see if it includes coverage for this type of care. You may also want to speak with your insurance provider directly to clarify what is covered and what is not.

If you are considering chiropractic treatment, one major concern you may have is whether it is covered by your insurance. The good news is that chiropractic treatment is often covered by most insurance plans, including both private and government-funded plans. However, the extent of coverage and the associated costs may vary depending on your insurance policy and the specific chiropractic treatment you receive.

It’s important to note that chiropractic treatment doesn’t often require a referral from a medical doctor or specialist for insurance coverage. Additionally, many insurance plans require that you meet your deductible, pay a co-pay, or a percentage of the cost of the treatment. Some plans may also limit the number of chiropractic visits covered in a calendar year.

Overall, it’s essential to check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of your chiropractic coverage and any associated costs. Proper understanding of the policy and its implications will enable you to make informed decisions about your health care, including chiropractic treatment. At the end of the day, chiropractic care is an investment in your health, and the benefits it provides are worth considering.

Chiropractic treatment is based on the principle that the nervous system controls and coordinates all bodily functions. When there is a misalignment or subluxation in the spine, it can interfere with the nervous system and ultimately lead to a range of health problems. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to correct subluxations and restore proper alignment to the spine and other joints. By doing so, they can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health and wellness.

Many people seek out chiropractic treatment for a variety of reasons, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other musculoskeletal problems. Chiropractic treatment is also often used as a complementary therapy to conventional medical treatments for conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sciatica. If you suffer from any of these conditions or are simply interested in improving your health and wellness, consider scheduling an appointment with a licensed chiropractor today.

It’s worth noting that even if your insurance plan does cover chiropractic care, there may be limitations on how many visits are allowed per year or how much your insurance covers per visit. In this case, you may need to pay out-of-pocket for additional visits or services. As with any medical service, it’s important to understand and be aware of any costs or limitations associated with chiropractic care before receiving treatment.

Overall, if you are interested in receiving chiropractic care, it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage. While some plans may offer partial or full coverage for this type of care, others may not. By understanding your coverage and potential costs associated with treatment, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare.

What to look for when searching for a Chiropractor?

When it comes to finding a chiropractor, it’s important to do your due diligence to ensure you find the right fit for you. While referrals and online reviews can be helpful, there are a few factors to consider when searching for a chiropractor.

First and foremost, you’ll want to ensure the chiropractor is licensed and trained in their field. This can usually be verified on state licensing websites or through professional associations. It’s also important to look for a chiropractor who specializes in the specific issue you’re seeking treatment for, such as back pain or headaches.

Another factor to consider is the chiropractor’s approach to treatment. Some may focus solely on spinal adjustments, while others may incorporate additional therapies such as massage or acupuncture. It’s important to find a chiropractor whose approach aligns with your own preferences and goals for treatment.

Lastly, consider the chiropractor’s communication style and bedside manner. You’ll want to feel comfortable expressing your concerns and symptoms, and trust that the chiropractor is listening and providing personalized care. Overall, taking the time to research and evaluate potential chiropractors can help you find a provider who can effectively address your needs and support your overall health and wellness.

What is a Chiropractic Adjustment

The human spine is the most critical part of the body, and it houses the spinal cord, which is responsible for transmitting information between the brain and the rest of the body. However, this vital organ can sometimes have subluxations or misaligned vertebrae, which can cause pain, discomfort, and a host of other medical conditions. In such instances, chiropractic adjustment comes to the rescue. This technique is applied by a licensed chiropractor who uses their hands to apply controlled force to the affected areas of the spine, allowing the vertebrae to return to their proper alignment.

Chiropractic adjustment is a non-invasive and safe treatment that can help alleviate a wide range of symptoms. This technique involves using specific, targeted force on specific areas of the spine to restore alignment and promote proper mobility. Chiropractors may use various techniques, including manual adjustment, activator, Thompson, Drop or SOT, and Gonstead, among others, to achieve a successful adjustment. The ultimate goal of chiropractic adjustment is to relieve pain, improve spinal function, and promote the overall physical and emotional wellbeing of patients. Overall, chiropractic adjustment can play a crucial role in helping people of different ages and medical histories achieve optimal health.  See our prior blog to learn what does it feel like to get a Chiropractic adjustment. 

Can Chiropractic help chronic back pain?

Chronic back pain is a common health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It is typically defined as pain that persists for more than three months and can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life, making it difficult to perform daily tasks and participate in physical activities. While there are various treatments available for chronic back pain, chiropractic care has been gaining popularity as an effective alternative therapy.

Chiropractic care involves adjustments or manipulations of the spine and other joints, with the goal of reducing pain and improving the function of the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors use their hands or special instruments to apply controlled pressure to specific areas of the spine and alleviate tension in the muscles and joints. This hands-on approach is thought to encourage the body’s natural healing processes and promote overall wellness.  Chiropractic treatment for Sacroiliac pain is also very helpful.

Research suggests that chiropractic care may be beneficial for those suffering from chronic back pain. A review of multiple studies found that chiropractic adjustments resulted in significant reductions in pain intensity and disability, with effects lasting up to 6 months. Additionally, chiropractic care is considered safe, non-invasive, and drug-free, making it an attractive option for those seeking a natural approach to managing their pain. However, it is essential to note that chiropractic care may not be suitable for everyone, and it is important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine if it is an appropriate treatment option for you.