Patients who come in for chiropractic treatment present with all types of complaints. The majority are musculoskeltal issues: low back pain, sciatica, general stiffness/loss of flexibility, headaches, neck pain, whiplash, and other acute injuries. Chiropractic is extremely effective in treating these conditions. However , the scope of chiropractic is much larger than this and we can treat many other complaints. Regardless of your complaint, we always proceed in the same manner as outlined below.

When you first visit us, you will receive a comprehensive physical exam. Many times people are eager to get started with the treatment and don’t understand the need for the exam, but it is vitally important. The exam begins with a careful review of your health history to educate us on how your body has worked in the past. You don’t want us treating you exactly the same as everyone else do you? Appropriate treatment for one is not suitable for another and we need a proper history to help assess what is best for you. We then go on to a physical exam recording ranges of motion, various orthopedic and neurological exams, and static and motion palpation of the area of concern. We will then proceed by deciding whether you will need to have x-rays taken.

Report of Findings – Following the exam, I will show you what I have found in the exam and explain what your problem is and how we will treat it. I will demonstrate on a plastic spine where I have found problems and if there are x-rays, we will show you any significant findings. In the rare case that you are not suited to chiropractic care, we will refer you for the proper care.

Treatment – An adjustment is a controlled force applied to a joint to restore its proper alignment and range of motion. Adjustments are used to treat subluxations. Depending on the results of the exam, you will receive the adjustment style that is suitable for your needs. An adjustment can be done vigorously or extremely gently, depending on the needs of the individual. Attention is also paid to the soft tissue that surrounds the joints. This will be done to try and speed recovery and reduce the length of recovery.

Orthotics – Some patients may require custom foot orthotics as a part of their treatment. This is more common for those with lower body complaints, especially sciatica and plantar fascitis. Orthotics help support the arches of the feet. They are custom-made for each individual patient. We also provide a wide range of orthotic shoes, sandals and boots that are good for both recreation and work. These are generally covered by healthcare insurance. You will be referred to the chiropodist in the clinic for this service.