By Dr. Kenneth Strack on Monday, 03 May 2021
Category: Chiropractic Care

What to Expect at the Chiropractor

You may be surprised to find out that chiropractic care has been available for almost 100 years, as it became one of the largest alternative healing professions in the U.S. in the 1930s. It has grown and evolved over time, introducing new techniques, and gaining more traction over time. However, we find that many people have reservations because they're not quite sure what a typical chiropractic appointment looks like and how to prepare for it. In this blog, I will be covering some of the most frequent concerns people have when it comes to visiting a chiropractor. 

Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?

With pain being such a subjective feeling, it's impossible to say something like this is completely pain-free, but the feeling may be more accurately described as "discomfort." Everyone has different amounts of tension in different areas. With higher-tension areas, I will approach the issue with more speed or depth depending on the needs of the patient. Even if there is some discomfort, it's usually followed with relief in just a few seconds. If you have ever had someone press into a knot in your back, you likely experienced some discomfort. The discomfort felt during an adjustment is very similar to that, but with thorough and longer-lasting relief. 

The Active Release Technique (ART), on the other hand, is designed to border discomfort, resulting in immense relief. While using this technique, I hear things like "That feels effective," "That is good pain," "That is exactly what I need," and even the occasional string of four-letter words, followed by a sigh of relief. The objective of this method is to give the patient immediate relief while also solving the primary issue. Ultimately, it's important to be prepared for some discomfort, but extreme pain should not be a concern. 

Are chiropractic adjustments safe?

Chiropractic care is considered to be very safe when done by a trained and licensed professional. At Strack Chiropractic Wellness Center, I am very conservative when administering adjustments. The most common type of injury in a chiropractic office is a broken rib, which comes from a style of adjustment that I don't do very often. Furthermore, if a patient is ever uncomfortable or concerned with a type of adjustment or maneuver in the office, I will be happy to find an alternative technique. To put it into perspective, chiropractic care is so safe that my liability is very low. My malpractice insurance is $1,216 per year with a policy coverage of $1,000,000/$3,000,000. An OB/GYN in Georgia will pay about $60,000 for the same coverage because they have much more risk. 

Do you have to "pop" me? 

Some people don't like the sound of being "popped." From a medical perspective, the popping sound you hear is actually called cavitation which is caused by nitrogen leaving the joint space. This is an effective adjustment method, but if you're uncomfortable with it, we can certainly use other methods! 

Do I have to go to the chiropractor multiple times a week for it to work? 

Treating injuries can take time. I frequently hear from patients, "How long will this take?" Every injury is different, and everyone responds differently to care. Most treatment plans to reduce pain will start at two times a week and is reassessed once the pain is significantly reduced. I take many factors into account when developing a care plan and I recommend care for each patient on an as-needed basis. 

What credentials do chiropractors have? 

Chiropractors typically spend four years in undergrad and then four years in grad school. The internship is included within the degree program, versus MDs who have to complete a residency after graduation. The image below is a good depiction of what training looks like for chiropractors and MDs. As you can see, both doctors go through similar education and training. 

I'm in! What should I expect? 

At Strack Chiropractic Wellness Center, you'll find that you experience immediate relief and gain a different outlook on your discomfort or injury. My goal is always to treat your pain as well as the root of the pain so we can set you up for success long term instead of merely treating the symptoms. 

We hope that we have been able to address any concerns you may have! If you have other questions you would like us to answer, please fill out our contact form and let us know. If you're ready to make your appointment, click the button below!