Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT HAPPENS IN A TYPICAL VISIT TO A CHIROPRACTOR?

During your visit, your Doctor of Chiropractic will compile your total health profile. You will be asked about your own and your family's medical history, your vital statistics, diet, injuries, other treatment you may have had or are currently receiving, and the physical movement involved in performing your job. Your Doctor of Chiroprcatic will perform a physical examination, possibly including laboratory analysis and X-rays. The doctor will carefully examine your spine, both at rest and in motion. The goal is to offer a diagnosis and treatment plan. Referral to other providers will be ordered if necessary.

WHAT DO CHIROPRACTORS TREAT?

People commonly see Doctors of Chiropractic for backache, whiplash, and disc problems brought on by injuries to the back and neck, as well as repetitive stress damage including carpal tunnel syndrome and sports injuries. Success in treating headaches, both migrane and common, has enhanced the appeal of chiropractic treatment. Chiropractors also have had some success in treating allergies and digestive disorders.

WHO SEES A CHIROPRACTOR?

People from all walks of life. Nearly half of all Minnesotans have visited a Doctor of Chiropractic. Women tend to see chiropractors more often than men, and children also see chirpractors for treatment of problems ranging from sports injuries to colic.

WILL THE CHIROPRACTOR WORK ON MY SPINE?

Depending on whether or not your Doctor of Chiropractic finds a problem with your vertebrae, your spine may be manipulated or adjusted. The adjustment is usually made by hand. You may be asked to lie on an adjusting table, where the doctor applies pressure to the areas of the spine that are out of alignment or not moving properly.

HOW MANY TIMES WILL I NEED TO SEE MY CHIROPRACTOR?

That depends on what, if any, problems are found. Your doctor most likely will have treated many problems of a similar nature and thus may be able to give you a good estimate of the necessary treatment.

HOW ELSE MIGHT MY DOCTOR TREAT MY PROBLEM?

Doctors of Chiropractic use other natural therapies, including heat, cold, water, massage, light, and vitamins. Other forms of physiologic therapies inlude electrical stimulation, ultrasound, traction, diet and acupuncture. Your doctor also may ask you to perform some exercises at home to improve your health.

HOW IS A DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC EDUCATED?

Training requires a minimum of six years of college and clinic internship before licensure. Areas of scientific study include anatomy, neurology, bacteriology, pathology, physiology, biochemistry, pediatrics, geriatrics, spinal biomechanics, orthopedics, X-ray, cardiology, nutrition, acupunture, physiotherepy, gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems, and infectious diseases. Every chiropractic graduate must pass a national exam and be tested by the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners to be licensed.