Frequently Asked Questions in Calgary AB

Chiropractic care is a form of healthcare that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system, especially the spine but chiropractors work on all joints. Chiropractors use hands-on manipulation and other techniques to restore the body's neuromusculoskeletal structure and improve its function. When the spine is properly functioning, the body performs and maintains a better state of health.

Chiropractors earn a Doctorate in Chiropractic and are considered primary care providers similar to medical doctors. In order to become a licensed chiropractor, one must complete a four-year doctoral program in chiropractic after an undergraduate degree, very similar to a dentist, optometrist, or medical doctor.

Canadian D.D. Palmer founded chiropractic care in the late 1800s. Palmer believed that misalignments of the spine, called subluxations, caused many health problems. He developed a technique for realigning the spine, which he called chiropractic. Since then, chiropractic has become a widely used form of healthcare around the world.

A chiropractor uses a variety of techniques to manipulate the spine and other parts of the body to improve their alignment and function. These techniques can include manual adjustments, spinal decompression, soft tissue therapy, and rehabilitation exercises. Chiropractors may also provide nutritional and lifestyle advice to help patients achieve optimal health.

Chiropractic care has excellent results for a variety of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and sciatica. The effectiveness of chiropractic care is well documented in peer-reviewed journals and there continues to be a growing amount strong evidence supporting the use of chiropractic care.

Chiropractic care is considered very safe when performed by a qualified and licensed practitioner. Evidence suggests that chiropractic care rarely causes significant injuries that don’t resolve.

Chiropractic adjustment can have side effects, including soreness and stiffness. When chiropractors move joints that are “stuck,” some soreness can result but that is normal, just like soreness after beginning a workout program. These side effects are usually mild and transient.

The number of chiropractic sessions needed depends on the condition being treated and the individual patient. Some patients may see improvement after just one session, while others may require ongoing treatment over a period of weeks or months.

The cost of chiropractic care varies depending on the location, the practitioner, and the type of treatment being provided. Many insurance plans cover chiropractic care, and some practitioners offer payment plans. Generally, chiropractic care is considered very cost-effective in the healthcare world.

Patients can find chiropractors near them by searching online directories, asking for recommendations from friends and family.

Common chiropractic techniques include diversified (hands on), drop table (gravity assisted) and Activator (instrument assisted).

Chiropractors treat a variety of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches/migraine, carpel tunnel, shoulder pain, knee pain, hip pain, ankle pain, numbness/tingling, nerve pain, and sciatica.

Chiropractors can relieve pain from injuries or accidents by restoring proper biomechanics to injured joints, which can improve function and reduce inflammation. They may use techniques such as spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapy, and rehabilitation exercises to help patients recover from injuries.

Chiropractic care is considered safe during pregnancy and can help alleviate back pain, sciatica, and other discomforts associated with pregnancy.

A chiropractor will find the source of your lower back pain by taking a thorough history and performing a physical examination. Based on the results they will perform the necessary treatments such as adjustments, soft tissue, and exercise therapy.

A chiropractor will find the source of your neck pain by taking a thorough history and performing a physical examination. Based on the results they will perform the necessary treatments such as adjustments and soft tissue therapy.

A chiropractor will find the cause of sciatica by taking a history and performing a thorough physical examination. Following that they will perform treatment indicated by the results.

Chiropractic adjustments are generally not painful, but some patients may experience mild discomfort or soreness after treatment. Patients should always communicate with their chiropractor if they experience any pain or discomfort during treatment.

The popping sound is gas being released from the joint when the joint surfaces are separated. It has a profound neurophysiological effect on the body.

No, each patient is uniquely adjusted based on their age, body type, and personal preference. There are many different techniques that can be used.

One adjustment may temporarily completely remove back pain but often several adjustments are needed for functional change and lasting relief.

It is not recommended for individuals to try to adjust themselves. Chiropractic adjustments should only be performed by a licensed chiropractor with proper training and education. Attempting to adjust yourself can result in further injury or pain.

At our office, we do not require patients to remove their clothing for chiropractic treatment.

Chiropractic care is safe and effective for children of all ages, but it should be performed by a licensed chiropractor with experience in treating children.

Chiropractors must complete a four-year doctoral degree program in chiropractic after completing an undergraduate degree. They must also pass a national board exam and obtain a license to practice in their province. Chiropractors are also required to obtain yearly continuing education courses to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and research in the field.