1. What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a unique health care paradigm based on your body’s inborn ability to heal itself and resist disease. Unlike the allopathic (medical) approach which focuses on the disease, chiropractic focuses o improving the natural defenses. We do this by reducing the interferences with the nervous system. It is the brain’s job to interpret your internal and external environments and adjust the body’s system accordingly. The brain talks to each and every organ ( & vice-versa) through the nerves. The nerves branch off the spinal cord which is housed in the spinal bones. These nerves branch out between the bones. If the spinal bones become misaligned ( a subluxation) pressure can be placed on the nerves and interfere with the message coming from the brain down into the spinal cord and out the nerve root. Good communication is vital for optimum health. Chiropractic restores proper spinal function with chiropractic adjustments. Because the goal of chiropractic is to restore you to your optimum function, we do not treat symptoms. We do monitor conditions and aid in the healing process allowing your body to heal itself and be as healthy as it can be.

2. What does a Chiropractor do?

Doctors of Chiropractic are specialists in the detection, reduction and prevention of nervous system interferences. Chiropractors do this by locating misaligned vertebrae which is called a subluxation, and correcting that subluxation through an adjustment.

An adjustment occurs when the chiropractor provides a specific force to the subluxated bone in a specific direction with a specific intent. To determine the cause of your health problem chiropractic doctors examine your spine. This exam may include x-rays, orthopedic and neurological testing as well as neurovascular testing. You will be shown the exact locations of any nervous system interference and get specific recommendations for your chiropractic care program.

3. Why should I go to a chiropractor?

People of all ages can benefit from chiropractic care. A doctor of chiropractic should be a part of every family’s health care team of professionals. It is important to get your spine checked regularly so that you can stay healthy and allow your body to function to the best of its ability. Chiropractic is a preventive health care. Just as you would take your car in for check-up’s and oil changes to keep it running well, your body is a very complex organism that requires maintenance of it own. Along with a healthy diet and regular exercise chiropractic can provide an avenue to maintain a healthy lifestyle so that one may enjoy every decade of life.

4. If I start going to the chiropractor, do I have to go for the rest of my life?

The quick answer is NO. How long you chose to benefit from chiropractic care is entirely up to you. Most patients find that periodic chiropractic check-ups help keep them in good shape. Those who are active, have stressful jobs, play sports or want to be their very best find that a schedule of preventive visits allow them to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Spinal problems that may have occurred as a child may require longer care in order to stabilize the condition and allow the individual to have optimum health. Chronic problems often involve muscle and other soft tissue damage which can lead into early degenerative changes in the spine. Some patients may come in for acute care or when they are experiencing pain. This type of care may result in a more frequent schedule of care to stabilize the area. Whatever category you may fall into, our office is ready to assist you in your needs. It is your body and your choice how long you chose to benefit from chiropractic care.

5. Does insurance cover chiropractic care?

Most insurance companies will have some chiropractic coverage. Some cover more than others. We will be happy to verify your insurance coverage with no obligation to you. As more research is done in the chiropractic field, insurance companies are realizing the benefits of chiropractic care, not only to the patient's health but finacally to them. This office is a PPO provider for Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

6. Do I have to be a certain age to see a chiropractor?

Nobody is too young or too old to benefit from chiropractic care. More and more people are consulting chiropractors for a variety of healthcare needs. With growing concerns about over-medication and the side effects of combining various prescription drugs, chiropractic provides a safe, natural means of healthcare. You are never too old or young to have your spine checked so that you can function to the best of your ability.

Doctors in this office have seen patients as young as 30 minutes old to 101 years old. Doctor Velos has a Diplomate in Chiropractic Pediatrics and Pregnancy, which is a three year post doctorate degree allowing her to have a greater understanding of the ever growing pediatric population. Dr. Gibbs deals more with the geriatric population and sports injury. Both doctors see people of all ages. Each individual is unique and will be treated that way. Different techniques can be adapted for age, conditions and other factors.