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Chiropractic FAQ

Riverview Chiropractic Clinic has put together a list of Frequently Asked Questions that patients and the general public often have. We hope this helps you better understand chiropractic care and how we can help you and your family. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask them using our "contact us" tab!

 

01

"What is Chiropractic Care?"

 

Chiropractic care is important for people of all ages and activity levels. The human body is controlled by a very complex nervous system. It just so happens that the spine houses this nervous system and plays a crucial role in the function of it. Segments within the spine, known as vertebrae, are meant to freely move which allows us as humans to perform our everyday activities. However, these daily stresses can negatively affect these joints, causing them to become "stuck" or move less freely. This is where chiropractic care comes in! With our training, we are able to detect these "stuck" joints (known as subluxations) and gently adjust them back into their normal motion pattern. This often times is associated with a "cracking" or a "popping" noise which is a perfectly normal release of gas bubbles, much like popping bubble wrap.

 

Chiropractic care doesn't stop at the function of the spine though! It also involves the joints of the arms and legs, and most often, the musculature and soft tissues. As chiropractors, our extensive training allows us to treat each one of these areas to promote the best overall body function and health. The body is a fine tuned machine that heals itself, but just like your car, it needs maintenance!

02

"I am told once you see a chiropractor, you have to keep going for life. Is this true?"

 

This is not true. Here at Riverview Chiropractic Clinic we treat each individual patient and their specific condition by tailoring a care plan to fit their needs. During the initial visit, one of our doctors will assess the patient and what they are presenting with. After determining the cause of the complaint, they will discuss with the patient how they will treat them and approximately how long they expect the treatment period to last. In most situations, a patient will be seen more frequently during the acute stage of care, helping to reduce pain and discomfort as quickly as possible. After the patient's pain has been minimized, the doctor would start spacing out the frequency in which they would be seen in the office. Each patient is different, therefore treatment plans will vary. Although you do not "have to keep going for life", we reccommend that patients stay on a maintenance plan that works for them in order to maintain proper alignment. For some patients it may be once a month, for others it may be twice a month. Each individual is different!  Chiropractic care is crucial for general nerve and body function and can help you and your family live a healthy and happy life, so why not get adjusted?!

03

"Are chiropractors real doctors?"

 

Doctors of Chiropractic go through extensive training. This training is very similar to that of a MD or DO, however, just like any other profession, there are many disciplines or specialties within the healthcare field. Chiropractors specialize in musculoskeletal injuries, nerve function, and overall health and wellness. Chiropractors do not prescribe medications like other healthcare professionals, but they have a vast amount of knowledge involving x-ray, body biomechanics, nutrition, and a multitude of chronic and acute medical conditions. The doctors at Riverview Chiropractic Clinic believe that working together with other healthcare professionals is one way they can help the patient receive the best possible care. For some patients, chiropractic care might not be the best option for their condition. If we can't help you, we will help you find someone that can!

04

"Do adjustments hurt?"

 

Generally, No. Depending on the condition/complaint you are experiencing, the adjustment may be slightly uncomfortable while it is being performed. However, most patients that are in these extreme pain situations find some form of immediate relief afterward. In most cases the adjustment is not painful whatsoever. Often times the body will be sore after an adjustment because it is adapting itself to change. The joints within the body that were "stuck" for a period of time, are now moving again, and your body has to accomodate that change - leading to mild soreness while healing. In acute situations the patient may not even be adjusted, but rather provided therapies to reduce their pain to prepare them for an adjustment during their next visit.  We also provide Activator adjusting (which is a small instrument used to gently adjust the spine) if a patient prefers not to be adjusted manually. 

05

"Is chiropractic care safe for children?"

 

YES! Chiropractors are highly educated on the treatment of patient of all ages. Children, being smaller and much more fragile, do not require nearly as much force to increase joint motion, therefore gentle techniques are used. A very light pressure can be enough to correct an infants joint dysfunction. An Activator adjusting instrument may also be used to provide gentle, precise adjustments to the areas of concern. Children have the great ability to heal fast, therefore they often times respond very well and very quickly to chiropractic care. It is important for children to have a sturdy, well aligned spine to help prevent issues from arising in the future. Think about how often your child falls down outside, trips over a toy, or happens to run into a friend on the playground. All of these events cause stress to a child's body which can alter their mechanics and lead to back and neck problems down the road. It is easier to prevent conditions than it is to correct them once they have occurred! Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns regarding your child's health.

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