Today I'd like to share with you some of the most frequently asked questions I have been asked about chiropractic care. The brief answers that I will share with you will hopefully clear up some of the misconceptions you may have concerning chiropractic care.

1. How does a chiropractor know where I need to be adjusted?

A thorough spinal evaluation is necessary to learn where the specific areas of the spine are that may be interfering with the performance of your body's nervous system. If the nervous system isn't working, the body can't function.

The initial exam includes, but is not limited to, a posture evaluation, spinal scans, health history, X-rays (if necessary) and physical palpation of the spine in order to determine the exact location of any or all subluxations (misalignments of the spine).

2. What is a chiropractic adjustment?

After a complete exam including the various diagnostic procedures, the chiropractor establishes the exact location of a subluxation (misplacement of one or more of the spinal bones). There are many different techniques used by chiropractors in order to realign the spine so that the nervous system can function properly. I use a gentle approach including gentle force to the specific area that is subluxated, allowing the body to unlock the vertebrae from its malposition.

3. Can I tell if I have a subluxation?

Sometimes. To answer this I compare a subluxation to a dental cavity. You may have it for a long time before symptoms appear. That's why spinal checkups are so important even if you have no pain present or other symptoms that may cause you to seek treatment. Although it may be possible to know you have a problem in your spine, it is rarely possible to be sure you don't. Regular spinal exams are necessary for people of all ages to ensure that you're doing all you can to naturally help your body to heal itself.

4. Are all patients adjusted the same way?

No. Just as each person is unique, the care that each person receives should also be unique. After the evaluation, an individualized care plan is presented. At each appointment, your spine is examined and the appropriate adjustment is made.

5. How will the adjustment help me?

Adjustments help by removing nerve interference. The adjustment is not what heals your body; it aids the body so it can heal itself. The adjustment facilitates your body's own healing mechanisms.

6. Does an adjustment have to make a noise to be effective?

No, it is a common misconception that your joints must make a noise to be properly adjusted. Rarely does the vertebra make a noise when it becomes misaligned, so why would it have to make a noise in the process of re-alignment?

There are times when your spine is adjusted that a sound will be created. This sound means little, and is a poor indicator of the success of your adjustment. Some techniques create this sound and other techniques do not.

Next week I will share more questions and answers with you. If you have a question you would like addressed or would like more information about how chiropractic care can help you to live a more healthy, vibrant life, give us a call at (208) 667-7434. You can also find us on the Web at www.CDAHEalth.com.