Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic
What are the Benefits to Being Treated by a Sports Chiropractic Physician?
Faster recovery from injury, returning to play sooner, treatment integrated with training, access to a wider range of treatment tools, focus on reaching optimal function are all benefits of working with a Sports Chiropractic Physician.
What is a Sports Chiropractic Physician? Does it differ from a Chiropractor?
A board-certified Sports Chiropractic Physician has completed extensive training in the field of sports medicine and chiropractic, beyond the standard training in chiropractic college. This training studies the biomechanics of sports movement, the potential injuries for athletic individuals in various sports, evaluation, diagnosis and treatment specific to sports injuries and provides efficient, effective options to treat injuries, prevent recurrence and improve performance. The Sports Chiropractic Physician is credentialed through the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians™ receiving one of two certification levels: CCSP®, Certified Chiropactic Sports Physician®, or the highest level, DACBSP®, Diplomate American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians®.
Is Chiropractic Treatment Safe?
Yes. Chiropractic has an excellent safety record. Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest non-drug, non-invasive forms of health care available for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints. This helps millions of satisfied patients avoid harmful drugs or unnecessary surgery. Many patients feel immediate relief following chiropractic treatment; some may experience mild soreness, stiffness or aching, just as they do after some forms of exercise. Current research shows that minor discomfort or soreness following spinal adjusting typically fades within 24 hours.
What Techniques are Used?
- Adjustments: To gently realign joints and increase range of motion.
- Soft-Tissue Therapy: To relax tight muscles, relieve spasm and release tension in the fascia (the connective tissue that surrounds each muscle).
- Joint Bracing/Taping (e.g., Kinesiology taping): To support sprained joints or muscles as they heal.
- Exercises to Strengthen or Stretch: To restore and maintain mobility and range of motion.
- Referrals to Integrative Medicine Experts: For co-management when necessary on diet and nutrition to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
What Conditions do Chiropractors Treat?
Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) are well known for their expertise in caring for patients of all ages with back pain, neck pain and headaches using highly skilled chiropractic adjusting techniques. Chiropractors can treat pain anywhere in the body: shoulders, elbows and wrists, hip pain, knees and ankles. They look at the entire musculoskeletal system and work to treat the root of the problem. Not only do chiropractors ensure the joints are moving properly, but they check to make sure the surrounding muscles are also functioning well.
Is Chiropractic Treatment Appropriate for Children?
Yes, children benefit from chiropractic care. Children are very physically active and experience many types of falls and blows from activities of daily living especially when participating in sports. Injuries such as these may cause many symptoms which left untreated may develop into long-term dysfunctions.