What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a system of diagnosis and treatment based on the concept that the nervous system coordinates all the body's functions through the spine, and that disease can result from a lack of normal nerve function therin. Chiropractic employs manipulation and adjustment of body structures, such as the spinal column, so that pressure from displacement, or subluxation, of a vertebral body may be relieved on nerves coming from the spinal cord.

Modern Chiropractic was founded by Daniel David Palmer, a grocer, who performed his first chiropractic adjustment in 1895. The term "chiropractic" is derived from the Greek chiros and praktikos, together meaning "done by hand". The term was first used in 1889, the year Palmer founded the Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa.

What is an adjustment?

Adjustment refers to a gentle specific thrust delivered by the hand or instrument. The purpose of the adjustment is to correct your spinal subluxation(s), thus removing the nerve interference in your body.

Is it safe?

Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints. Although chiropractic has an excellent safety record, no health treatment is completely free of potential adverse effects. The risks associated with chiropractic are, however, very small. Many patients feel immediate relief following chiropractic treatment, but some may experience mild soreness or aching, just as they do after some forms of exercise. Current literature shows that minor discomfort or soreness following spinal manipulation typically fades within 24 hours.

What is that popping sound?

Adjustment of a joint may result in the release of a nitrogen gas bubble between the joints that makes a popping sound - it's exactly the same as when you "crack" your knuckles. The noise is caused by the change of pressure within the joint that results in gas bubbles being released. Not all adjustments will produce this noise.

Is chiropractic treatment ongoing?

Our goal is to get the patient to their optimum health level with as few adjustments as possible. It is a misconception that once you are adjusted, you must keep coming back for adjustments. Each patient is different and will be evaluated on each visit to determine progress so that the decision can be made to stop and let the body heal. Some will respond quickly with as few as 2 - 3 adjustments. Others, especially if the problem has been chronic, may take longer, even up to a year. Dr. Mell will discuss your treatment plan with you in detail. After your initial phase of treatment is complete, you will want to visit our office regularly for maintenance care. Many patients choose to come once a month or every six weeks to ensure they are subluxation-free.

How you choose to use chiropractic care is entirely up to you. It has been our experience that those who stop care when they are feeling fine generally return with the same health challenges that brought them in the first place. Those who commit to long-term wellness chiropractic care find they enjoy a higher quality of life and health, especially when combined with complementary massage therapy.