Find answers to the most frequent questions about Chiropractic.

1. Do I have a pinched nerve?

   • Many patients consult a chiropractic doctor because they think they have a pinched nerve. Research suggests that only 10% to 15% of spine related problems are caused by direct pressure of bone on nerve tissue. More frequently, nerves are irritated by a loss of normal spinal curves and malfunctioning spinal joints.

2. Do I have a slipped disc?
   • Technically, a disc cannot 'slip.' The intervertebral disc is a pad of cartilage-type material situated between the spinal bones. It acts as a spacer and shock absorber for the spine. Healthy discs help allow normal turning and bending, however trauma or injury to the spine can cause discs to tear, bulge or herniate. This becomes quite painful as the soft center of the disc bulges, putting pressure on the adjacent nerve roots and spinal cord. While results cannot be guaranteed, many patients can avoid needless surgery or a dependency on pain pills by choosing chiropractic management.

3. What is Chiropractic?
   • Chiropractic is based on the scientific fact that your body is a self-regulating, self-healing organism. All functions in your body are controlled by the brain, spinal cord and nerves. Chiropractic doctors correct spinal subluxations or misalignments of the vertebrae that are interfering with normal nerve transmissions and allow your nervous system to function at its highest level.

4. How does Chiropractic work?
   • When your nervous system is functioning correctly, the cells, tissues and organs in your body will resist disease and illness. Chiropractic treatment helps to remove interferences to your nervous system by improving spinal function.

5. What do Chiropractic Doctors do?
   • The evaluation of any health problem begins with a detailed focused discussion about the onset of your symptoms and details affecting your current health. Based on your case history, a thorough orthopedic, neurological and chiropractic examination will be performed. X-rays may be taken to further evaluate any structural problems associated with your spine. The findings of these examinations will be explained and a plan of chiropractic adjustments may be recommended to help you regain your function and health. A complete understanding of your condition will greatly help you in recovery.

6. What type of education do chiropractic doctors get?
   • Chiropractic doctors are very well educated. They begin training at colleges and universities across the country, and  then complete their studies at Chiropractic college. They have the same class hour requirements as a general practice Medical Doctor (M.D.). Chiropractic doctors complete extensive study of anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, orthopedics, biomechanics, physical diagnosis, radiology, spinal adjusting techniques and related subjects. After graduating with a Doctor of Chiropractic Degree, each candidate must pass the National Board Examination and their respective state licensing examination before beginning to practice.

7. What is an adjustment?
   • A chiropractic adjustment is performed by applying a specific force or thrust in a precise direction to a joint that is not moving normally. This adds movement to the joint, allowing the bones to return to a more normal position. The Doctor of Chiropractic is very skilled in this technique as well as other light-force adjustment techniques. The type of adjustment will vary depending on the condition of the patient.

8. Can I adjust myself?
   • It is virtually impossible to adjust yourself because a specific force must be delivered in a very precise direction to a specific joint. It is possible to cause your spine to 'pop' or 'crack' with a bend or a twist, but this type of manipulation not performed by a professional could make an unstable area of the spine more unsteady.

9. Is Chiropractic care safe?
   • Chiropractic care is a very safe, conservative form of health care. A thorough case history and examination will help determine the areas of the spine that are involved and the appropriate type of care.

10. Why do children need chiropractic care?
    • Children can sustain significant trauma to their spines from birth through adolescence. The trauma of birth, learning to walk, riding a bike, and other activities have the potential to cause problems. Many childhood health complaints brushed off as 'growing pains' can often be traced to the spine. Regular check-ups can reveal problems and help keep them from becoming chronic health complaints as adults.

11. Am I too old for Chiropractic care?
    • You are never too old for chiropractic care. Treatment methods are modified for each individual patient to help relieve their pain and improve function. 

12. How long will I need Chiropractic care?
    • Each patient and each condition will dictate the level of care required. Some conditions may respond in a short period of time while others that are more chronic may require ongoing supportive care to maintain function. Most patients find that periodic check-ups help them maintain their good health.  Street Chiropractic, we are grateful for our wonderful patients. Read some of our unsolicited testimonials!

Do you have questions? Please call us, we will be happy to assist you.

Schumacher Chiropractic Clinics, P.A.

Home | Services | Products | Hopkins | St Paul | Patients | ScoliScore | Spine | Contact Hopkins | Contact St Paul | Disclaimer & Privacy | Videos | Help