Do doctors recommend Chiropractors?

Currently, we have 4 doctors and 2 dentists that are patients in my office.  Chiropractic care and medicine can provide complementary treatment for patients.  There is mutual respect between professionals and they often refer patients to each other.  There is growing research studies and reviews that demonstrate services provided by a chiropractor are clinically effective, safe, and cost-effective.  This evidence supports the natural, whole-body, non-drug approach to treat a variety of conditions.


Why does cracking your neck feels so good?

Joint mobilization, manipulations, and adjustments may produce a joint “cracking” sound which is immediately followed by neurotransmitters called endorphins. These endorphins are secreted within the nervous system.  Endorphins activate an analgesic effect that is soothing.  Many reports that they feel a release of pain and it feels pleasant… but about an hour later, after the endorphins have abated, they want to “crack” it again.   You may know people who “crack” their neck multiple times each day, and they think it’s helping, but over time, they become over-adjusted. This can cause a host of other problems such as instability, arthritis, and muscle spasm. It’s best to seek advice from a chiropractor who is trained to perform adjustments safely. 

How often should you get chiropractic adjustments?

Everyone is different and many factors are taken into consideration, but typically monthly adjustments are optimal unless you have a new injury or pain.  In this case you may need adjustments more frequently.  We treat each patient on a case by case basis and will develop a treatment plan with you for optimum health outcomes. 

Is it normal to hurt worse after seeing a chiropractor?

Treatments generally do not hurt. You might experience a soreness as if you completed a challenging workout.  This is the most common side effect.  It will typically diminish over a short period of time as your muscles adjust.  “Spinal manipulation is an effective care option for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain.” (Bronfort, et al. 2010).

How do you know if your spine is out of alignment?

Some typical symptoms might include; chronic headaches, lower back pain, neck pain, knee pain, hip pain, frequent illness, excessive fatigue or numbness or tingling in the hands or feet.  Spine misalignment will also present an asymmetrical range of motion.  It is best to get an evaluation and design a treatment plan with one or our specialized doctors. 

What activity should I avoid after chiropractic adjustment?

As with other treatments, it is best to allow the adjustment to settleand avoid strenuous activity for a day. I recommend engaging in a longer than usual warm-up prior to physical activity after your adjustment.  This will allow your muscles and joints to receive the appropriate flow of blood and fluids to properly get your muscles ready to engage in activity.  Your chiropractor will review with you post adjustment instructions to ensure the best possible outcomes. 

A healthy spine is a happy spine.  For more information or to set up an appointment contact us Dixie Chiropractic, Dr. Ward Wagner at 435-673-1443