Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to have x-rays?
Only if the doctor determines that they are necessary.
Can I use my insurance?
Bring your insurance information in with you when you come in for your appointment. There is no charge for you for the consultation to talk to the doctor about your condition.
How much do you charge?
When the doctor determines that services are necessary, before any professional services are rendered, all charges will be explained. You can decide at that time if you wish to continue.
Are you a private pay practice?
We are not a provider for any one insurance.
Can children be seen?
We see all ages; our youngest patient was 5 days old and our oldest is 99!
What happens at my first visit?
First, you will have an in-depth consultation with the Doctor. Then, the doctor will proceed with an examination, and take necessary x-rays. The Doctor will then need time to look over your findings and have you schedule your next visit to review the findings of both the examination and x-rays.
I heard that chiropractic adjustments were uncomfortable, Is that true?
Based on the technique of Activator, the adjustments are gentle to the body therefore not usually uncomfortable.
Do you prescribe any drugs or medications?
Doctors of Chiropractic do not prescribe any medications.
Is it true that once you start Chiropractic care that you have to keep coming for the rest of your life?
Just like you get maintenance done on your car, you will need to come in for check-ups to maintain your spine wellness.
How many visits will I need to make to your office if I’m accepted as a patient?
Each case is different, so it would vary for each person.
What is the Activator?
The Activator Adjusting Instrument is a hand-held, spring-loaded device that delivers fast, precise adjustments in order to restore range of motion to the vertebrae and extremity joints.
Is the Activator FDA approved?
The Activator is FDA approved. Prior to its approval, the theory and function of the device was researched for more than 30 years. It was then tested on numerous individuals with back and neck pain for 15 years. It was found to be safe and effective for performing chiropractic adjustments. The device is even safe to use on individuals that have degenerative joint and disc disease.
How does the Activator Method work?
When you arrive for your appointment, our chiropractor will evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical examination and determine which of your vertebrae or extremity joints need to be adjusted. The Activator will be placed against your skin in the location where the adjustment is to be performed. Then, our chiropractor will trigger the Activator. The spring-loaded device will deliver a force to the location that will push the vertebrae or joint back into its proper position. This restores movement and reduces inflammation and pain.
Why should I choose the Activator over traditional spinal manipulation?
Traditional spinal manipulation is performed with our chiropractor’s hands. During the adjustment, a quick, firm thrust will be used to realign the joint. While this is perfectly safe, the adjusted area is much larger with a traditional adjustment than with an Activator adjustment. The Activator delivers a direct and precise adjustment that does not require any twisting or pulling. Individuals typically find the activator method less physically and mentally stressful because there are not as many pops or cracks associated with the adjustment, and the speed of the device means that the muscles do not have time to tense against the force.
Are there any side effects associated with the Activator method?
There are no side-effects associated with the Activator method of chiropractic adjustment. In fact, it is gentler than the traditional hands-on method of manipulation because there is no extra movement of the joint. The only area that moves is the area that is being adjusted. Most people find the Activator Method of chiropractic adjustment more comfortable than traditional adjustments.
What do Chiropractors treat?
Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) care for patients of all ages, with a variety of health conditions. DCs are especially well known for their expertise in caring for patients with back pain, neck pain and headaches…particularly with their highly skilled manipulations or chiropractic adjustments. They also care for patients with a wide range of injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, involving the muscles, ligaments and joints. These painful conditions often involve or impact the nervous system, which can cause referred pain and dysfunction distant to the region of injury. The benefits of chiropractic care extend to general health issues, as well, since our body structure affects our overall function. DCs also counsel patients on diet, nutrition, exercise, healthy habits, and occupational and lifestyle modification.
Can a person who had surgery see a chiropractor?
Yes. It’s an unfortunate fact that up to half of those who had spinal surgery discover a return of their original symptoms months or years after the surgery was performed. They then face the prospect of additional surgery. This all-too-common occurrence is known as “Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.” Chiropractic care can be highly effective in managing this discouraging condition and may help prevent additional back surgeries. In fact, if chiropractic care is initially utilized, many times back surgery can be avoided altogether. The Activator instrument technique Drs. Rush use in these cases is very safe, even for spines that have undergone fusion and instrumentation.
What type of education do chiropractic doctors receive?
Chiropractic education is similar to a medical or osteopathic education. An undergraduate degree focusing on biological sciences is a prerequisite. This is followed by four (4) years of professional education at one of the 16 chiropractic colleges in the United States. The coursework requires mastery of in-depth knowledge in anatomy, physiology, human chemistry and function as well as an internship at an out-patient clinic associated with the college.
The Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) graduates with a high level of clinical competence. After graduating, the candidates must pass the demanding four-part National Board Examinations. Then, the chiropractic doctor must apply to their chosen state licensing board and pass another difficult test before being granted the privilege to practice. A chiropractor’s education, however, never ends. All states require doctors to complete regular postgraduate instruction each year for license renewal and to stay current on the latest research and treatment techniques.
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Have more questions? Give our office a call! (410) 629-0610