Questions and Answers
• What are the qualifications and training for practicing Chiropractic?
REGULATION OF THE PROFESSION
To become a chiropractor in the U.S., students typically begin with several years of undergraduate studies focused on biology and science. They then complete a 4-5 year program at a chiropractic college.
Some states require that you have a bachelor's degree and a chiropractor's degree to practice. Chiropractic colleges are accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education, a branch of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.
Courses at chiropractic colleges include:
- Adjusting techniques
- Anatomy
- Biochemistry
- Orthopedics
- Disease (pathology)
- Function of the body (physiology)
- General chiropractic analysis
- Nervous system (neurology)
- Physical and lab diagnosis
- Radiology
- Nutrition
Students are expected to complete an internship at an outpatient clinic owned and run by the chiropractic college.
Chiropractors are regulated at two different levels:
- Board certification is conducted by the National Board of Chiropractor Examiners, which creates national standards for chiropractic care.
- Licensure takes place at the state level under specific state laws. Licensing may differ from state to state. Most states require that chiropractors complete the National Chiropractic Board examination before they get their license. Some states also require chiropractors to pass a practical examination. All states recognize training from chiropractic schools accredited by the Council of Chiropractic Education (CCE).
Most states require that chiropractors complete a certain number of continuing education hours every year to keep their license. (Reference: About.com)
• Can you help me?
The scientific literature is consistent in reporting substantial evidence that chiropractic treatment is effective for both acute and chronic Low-Back and Neck conditions. Many other studies reported findings indicating the effectiveness of chiropractic care for conditions other than Low-Back and Neck Pain including: Headache Pain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Infantile Colic. (Reference: National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.)
• Can I be seen today?
Absolutely! We offer "same day appointments". Four highly qualified, experienced and licensed Doctors of Chiropractic are on staff to serve your healthcare needs.
• What can I expect on my first visit?
You will be greeted by a member of our friendly staff, if you have not registered online and completed the new patient paperwork then you will be asked to complete the new patient paperwork. This will take only a short time. You will then have digital x-rays taken; these along with the new patient paperwork will give the doctor all the information he/she needs to evaluate your condition and fully understand your current health care needs and medical history. The doctor will then consult with you privately in a comfortable and professional setting. (Our doctors are trained to be sensitive and compassionate as well as being good listeners.) You and your doctor will review the preliminary findings. You will then be treated using Chiropractic Adjustments and physical therapy modalities, if necessary, in an attempt to reduce your pain and discomfort and to speed up the process of recovery. Please, also be assured that your doctor will promptly refer you to another qualified physician if we cannot help you.
• How long will it take to get well?
There is not a definite answer to this question since every case is different. The doctors of the Parkhurst Chiropractic & Lakeshore Wellness Center are experienced and will develop a personalized accurate treatment plan for you. They may also recommend laser treatments, massage, acupuncture and other tools that will aid in your health and well-being. Many important factors, such as: lifestyle, weight, age, duration of the condition, living habits, occupation, genetics, attitude, and, of course, your co-operation will depend on how long your treatment can take. Your Doctor of Chiropractic will suggest a personalized program designed to get you well in the shortest amount of time, and then show you how to stay that way.
• Will it hurt?
Chiropractic Adjustments help to reduce pain and inflammation and are therefore not considered painful in application. Strongly believing that treatments should not be painful, our doctors utilize specific and gentle adjusting techniques along with personal and compassionate care. Most people feel much better after their first adjustment. Because of the physical nature of an adjustment, occasionally patients will experience a slight achiness or soreness in the spinal musculature. However, we provide free ice packs to our patients and make other suggestions if you experience these types of reactions
• What is the cost?
Many studies of Chiropractic care clearly shows that Chiropractic care is more cost-effective than other treatment options. We accept and bill directly to your personal health insurance, workers' compensation (on-the-job injury) and personal injury (auto accident) insurance. We accept cash, checks, care credit, most major credit cards as well as offer personalized payment arrangements when necessary.
• Is Chiropractic care safe?
Chiropractic care is safer than back surgery, muscle relaxers and most other drugs. Chiropractic care has an excellent safety record. It offers natural, hands-on, drug-free techniques to resolve the cause of pain, rather than treat isolated symptoms. Chiropractic’s drugless, preventative approach to good health makes it appropriate for all ages, infants to senior citizens.
• How long will I need Chiropractic care?
Chiropractic care is presented in 3 stages. Stage One: Relief Care; Stage Two: Corrective Care; Stage Three: Maintenance and Wellness. We strive to give our patients individualized care and work with you depending on your condition and your needs.
• Will you refer me if you are unable to help me?
If your condition is not chiropractic in nature we will refer you to a Board-Certified Doctor in our community that can address your specific condition.
|
