ChiroAid

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is from Greek words meaning done by hand. It is grounded in the principle that the body can heal itself when the skeletal system is correctly aligned and the nervous system is functioning properly. To achieve this, the practitioner uses his or her hands or an adjusting tool to perform specific manipulations of the vertebrae. When these bones of the spine are not correctly articulated, resulting in a condition known as subluxation, the theory is that nerve transmission is disrupted and causes pain and illness manifested in the back as well as other areas of the body.

Doctors of Chiropractics are physicians who consider man as an integrated being, but give special attention to spinal mechanics, musculoskeletal, neurological, vascular, nutritional, and environmental relationships. In simple language, Chiropractics is preventative health care.  Doctors of Chiropractics were early pioneers of holistic health care offering an alternative to medicine through management and treatment of health disorders by employing proper lifestyles, diet, nutritional therapies, exercise, and care of the spine and nervous system.

Chiropractic Facts:

      the largest, drugless health  profession in the world

      the second largest health  profession overall

      the fastest growing health care profession in the U.S.

      a valid choice recognized by virtually all major commercial health insurance carriers including Medicare

      the largest, most regulated, and best recognized of the complementary and alternative medicine professions.  (2002; Annals of Internal Medicine)

What is an Adjustment?

           A chiropractic adjustment is a carefully directed and controlled pressure applied to a spinal joint that is subluxated, or not moving properly. The chiropractic adjustment removes subluxations and restores motion to the joints, helping the bones of the spine gradually return to a more normal position and motion. With improved position and motion, there is decreased interference with the nervous system, increased communication within the body, and improved overall balance.  After many years of training, a chiropractor is an expert at using the correct amount of force in the correct direction. Some adjustments may require a quick movement, and others involve slow and constant pressure. After a thorough examination, we determine which technique will work best for you.

                        How much education do Doctors of Chiropractic need?
              After completing their undergraduate education, chiropractors receive an additional four years of post-graduate education and a one-year internship to become a Doctor of Chiropractic. Their education curriculum is similar to medical school and there is special emphasis on anatomy, physiology, neurology, biomechanics, nutrition, X-ray, and spinal adjusting techniques. To become a licensed chiropractor, he or she must pass a demanding four-part National Board Examination and then a State Board examination for the state in which they wish to practice. A chiropractor’s education never stops, as yearly continuing education is required for license renewal (State of Maryland requires 48 hours of continuing education/2 year period for license renewal).

                           Are Chiropractors licensed and regulated?

The practice of chiropractic is licensed and regulated in all 50 states in the U.S. and in over 30 countries worldwide. State licensing boards regulate, among other factors, the education, experience and moral character of candidates for licensure, and protect the public health, safety and welfare.

The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) was established in 1963 and functions quite similarly to the National Board of Medical Examiners. The NBCE maintains consistency and fairness among the state licensing boards. The NBCE also administers the national board examination necessary to practice as a chiropractor.                             

Is chiropractic safe?
            Yes, chiropractic care is a safe and conservative form of health care. Since chiropractors do not prescribe medication or perform surgery there are no dangerous side effects. According to a New Zealand government's inquiry, chiropractic care is "remarkably safe." People of all ages, from newborns to senior citizens, enjoy the benefits of this natural approach to promoting good health.

                   Will my health insurance cover chiropractic care?
            Many insurance groups cover chiropractic care. If you have health insurance, bring your card with you and we can call the company to verify benefits. Auto insurance may cover you for any auto-related injuries and if you have been injured on the job, we can bill Workers' Compensation.

                      How long will it take me to get better?
            It is difficult to predict how your body will react to adjustments. Correcting a spinal problem depends on several factors including how long the problem has been around and your current lifestyle. Your body will heal as quickly as it wants to, and sometimes that takes time. Some patients may require ongoing supportive care for optimum spinal function, while others find that periodic checkups help keep them in balance and maintain better health.