Frequently Asked Questions in Greenville SC

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, especially those related to the spine. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques, such as spinal adjustments, to help relieve pain and improve function. They also provide expert advice on posture, exercise, and nutrition to help prevent future injuries and promote overall health and wellness. Chiropractors undergo extensive training and are licensed to practice in all 50 states and most countries around the world.

Chiropractic care is a type of healthcare that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Chiropractic care involves a hands-on approach, with chiropractors using manual techniques such as spinal adjustments to help alleviate pain and improve function. Chiropractors also provide patients with advice on posture, exercise, and nutrition to help prevent future injuries and promote overall health and wellness. Chiropractic care is often used to treat conditions such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other musculoskeletal disorders.

Chiropractors are not medical doctors (MDs), but they are doctors of chiropractic (DCs). In the United States, chiropractors must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree from an accredited chiropractic college, which takes 4 years of postgraduate study. Although chiropractors are not medical doctors, they are trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal disorders, and are licensed healthcare providers in the United States and many countries around the world. They often work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as medical doctors and physical therapists, to provide comprehensive care for their patients.

A key concept in chiropractic care is subluxation. A subluxation is a misalignment of the spinal joints, which can cause irritation or compression of the nerves that pass through them. Subluxations can lead to a range of health problems, including pain, inflammation, and reduced range of motion

We use a hands-on approach to detect and correct subluxations. We perform physical exams, take only necessary X-rays, and assess the patient's medical history to identify areas of misalignment or dysfunction in the spine. Once identified, we use various methods, based on the needs of our patients, to realign the affected joints and improve nervous system function.

Chiropractors are generally considered safe when they are properly trained and licensed to practice. Like any healthcare profession, there are potential risks and side effects associated with chiropractic care, but these are mild and rare.

Some of the potential risks of chiropractic care may include soreness, stiffness, or discomfort in the treated area, as well as headaches or dizziness. In rare cases, spinal adjustments may cause more serious complications, but these are very uncommon.

To minimize the risk of complications, chiropractors will typically perform a thorough evaluation and medical history review before beginning treatment, and will tailor their approach to the individual needs and health status of each patient. Chiropractors are also trained to recognize signs of potential complications and will refer patients to other healthcare providers if necessary.

Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to help restore proper alignment and function in the spine and other joints. Here are some common chiropractic techniques:

1. Chiropractic BioPhysics. The most researched technique in chiropractic today with nearly 300 publications. CBP is a method of adjusting the spine based on posture correction. We use adjustments, postural traction and corrective exercises to help balance and improve the motion of the spine. 
2. Gonstead Technique: This technique uses a combination of analysis methods, including visualization, palpation, and X-rays, to determine the precise location of subluxations. The chiropractor then uses a manual adjustment to correct the subluxation.
3. Drop Table Technique: This technique involves the use of a special table with drop-away sections that allow the chiropractor to deliver a precise and gentle adjustment to the spine.
4. Diversified Technique: This is a manual adjustment technique that involves a high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust to the spine. The chiropractor uses their hands to apply a quick and precise force to the joint, with the goal of restoring proper alignment and function.
5. Activator Method: This is a gentle, low-force technique that uses a handheld instrument to deliver a precise, targeted force to the joint. It is often used to treat patients who are uncomfortable with the more traditional manual adjustment techniques.

Yes, chiropractic care can be safe and effective during pregnancy, and many women find it helpful for managing a variety of pregnancy-related symptoms. Chiropractors can provide specialized care for pregnant women, including adjustments and other techniques that are gentle and safe for both the mother and baby.

Pregnancy can cause a variety of musculoskeletal problems, such as back pain, hip pain, and pelvic pain, as well as issues with posture and balance. Chiropractic care can help alleviate these symptoms by improving spinal and pelvic alignment, reducing inflammation, and promoting better nervous system function.

Chiropractors can help with sciatica by addressing the underlying spinal misalignments or subluxations that may be causing the condition. Sciatica is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which can occur when the spine is not properly aligned.

Chiropractors will typically perform a thorough evaluation to determine the specific cause of the sciatica, which may include a physical exam, medical history review, and diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays. Once they have identified the underlying cause, they can develop a customized treatment plan that may include a variety of techniques, such as:

1. Spinal adjustments: Chiropractors use gentle, targeted adjustments to realign the spine and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
2. Traction: Traction therapy involves the use of a specialized table to gently stretch the spine, which can help alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.
3. Stretching and exercise: Chiropractors may recommend specific stretches or exercises to help strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility in the affected area, which can help reduce pain and improve mobility.
4. Postural and ergonomic advice: Chiropractors can provide guidance on proper posture and ergonomic techniques to help prevent future episodes of sciatica.

Overall, chiropractic care can be a safe and effective treatment option for sciatica.

The popping sound that you may hear during a chiropractic adjustment is often referred to as a "cavitation." It is caused by the release of gas bubbles that have built up in the joint fluid surrounding the joint being adjusted.

Much like opening a bottle of champagne, when a chiropractor performs an adjustment, they apply a quick and precise force to the joint, which can cause a rapid separation of the joint surfaces. This separation creates a low-pressure area that allows the gas bubbles to escape from the joint fluid, resulting in the popping sound that you may hear.

The popping sound is not always present during an adjustment, and its absence does not necessarily indicate that the adjustment was not effective. Similarly, the presence of the popping sound does not necessarily indicate that the adjustment was successful, as a good adjustment is based on the proper analysis and correction of the subluxation rather than the presence or absence of a sound.

It is also important to note that the popping sound is generally not a cause for concern, and is not associated with any significant risks or adverse effects. However, if you have any concerns about the popping sound or any other aspect of your chiropractic care, it is important to discuss them with your chiropractor.

Chiropractors undergo extensive training and education to learn how to safely and effectively adjust the spine and other joints. While it may be tempting to try to adjust yourself, it is not recommended, and it can be dangerous.

The spine is a complex structure that houses the spinal cord and nervous system, and any manipulation or adjustment of the spine should be done only by a qualified and licensed healthcare professional.

Attempting to adjust yourself can be dangerous, as it can cause more harm than good. Self-adjustments can lead to further misalignments, muscle strains, and other injuries. In some cases, self-adjustments can also cause more serious complications, such as nerve damage, fractures, or dislocations.

If you are experiencing discomfort or pain in your spine or other joints, it is important to seek the care of a qualified chiropractor. They can perform a thorough evaluation and provide you with safe and effective treatment options that are tailored to your individual needs and health status.