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Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a regulated healthcare profession that involves treatment of the musculoskeletal system.  It is classified as a manual therapy, which means it involves hands-on and non-invasive treatment.  Chiropractic care involves skilled treatments provided by highly trained and educated professionals.  

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If you have a condition related to the joints, muscles, or nerves, chiropractic is a viable option.  Chiropractors are qualified to assess, diagnose, treat, and prevent musculoskeletal conditions, as well as provide guidance towards healthy living and optimal performance. 

2. Who are chiropractors?

Chiropractors are primary healthcare providers who specialize in treating the musculoskeletal system.  Similar to dentists, optometrists, and medical doctors, you do not need a referral to see a chiropractor.  Chiropractors are commonly known as spinal experts, but they are also highly qualified to manage any musculoskeletal condition. 

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Canadian chiropractors must obtain at least 3 years of undergraduate studies, prior to entering into a 4-year doctor of chiropractic degree.  Chiropractors receive a comprehensive education focusing on human anatomy, physiology, exercise science, nutrition, and many more health science subjects.  

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The chiropractic scope of practice entitles chiropractors to: 

  • Diagnose and treat conditions related to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems

  • Order and interpret x-rays

  • Provide nutritional recommendations

  • Provide manipulative therapy to the joints of the spine and extremities

  • Provide several treatment modalities including acupuncture, soft tissue therapy, rehabilitative exercises, and orthotic prescription​

3. What conditions do chiropractors treat?

As stated above, chiropractors are equipped to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions, which means they treat injuries related to the muscles, joints, tendons, and nerves.  In addition to managing pain, chiropractors can also assist you in enhancing performance through functional assessments, exercise therapy, acupuncture, and nutrition, as well as provide guidance on living a healthy lifestyle to prevent illness. 

 

Some common conditions treated by chiropractors include: â€‹

  • Low back pain

  • Neck pain 

  • Headaches

  • Arthritis

  • Sports injuries

  • Tendon injuries

  • Sciatica

  • Repetitive workplace injuries

  • Motor vehicle accidents

  • Whiplash

  • Disc injuries 

  • Sprains/Strains

4. What is an adjustment?

The technique chiropractors are most well-known for is the chiropractic adjustment, or spinal manipulative therapy (SMT).  SMT is a very precise technique used to move joints of the spine.  Commonly, chiropractors will use their hands and body to manually adjust the joints of the spine using a very quick, precise, and safe amount of force to a specific area.  This can be applied to the low back, mid back, and neck.  Joints of the extremities can also be adjusted in a similar manner.  

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Specialized techniques are used to determine which areas of the spine exhibit restricted motion.  These areas are then adjusted, which provides a stimulus to the nervous system that restores joint motion, reduces muscle tension, and relieves pain.  These effects are often noticeable immediately following an adjustment, although sometimes the area requires multiple adjustments to restore normal join motion. 

5. How often will I need treatments?

There is no "one size fits all" approach with chiropractic treatment.  During your initial visit, Dr. Dashney will inform you of how many visits are necessary for optimal results.  This will vary from patient to patient, depending on the severity or chronicity of the injury.  An example plan may involve 2-3 treatments per week for 4-6 weeks.  The frequency of treatments generally taper off as healing occurs.  

 

Acute injuries often completely resolve with appropriate treatment.  Repetitive strain and chronic injuries are commonly related to daily activities and postures that are unavoidable.  These may be recurrent in nature because the cause of the pain cannot be eliminated.  Individuals in this situation can benefit from a routine visit every 3-4 weeks to loosen up tight muscles, maintain healthy joint motion, and prevent pain.  Chiropractic care can also help people to manage the pain associated with irreversible conditions, such as arthritis.  These patients may choose to visit their chiropractor more frequently because the pain management improves their quality of life. 

6. What should I expect on my first visit?

Your initial visit will include a comprehensive examination.  You will be asked to provide information regarding the nature of your injury, your health status, your lifestyle, and previous injuries.  Dr. Dashney will then conduct a physical examination to determine the cause of your pain or injury.  You will then be provided with an explanation of your injury, and a proposed treatment plan.  The first visit typically involves treatment, as well. 

 

It is best to wear clothes that allow access to the injured area and are easy to move around in.  You should also arrive 10 minutes early to use this time to fill out required paperwork.       

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