What is Chiropractic

The word "chiropractic" derived its name from the Greek words meaning "done by hand".  Chiropractic is a conservative approach to health restoration, maintenance, and disease resistance.  As a natural health-care method, chiropractic, by choice, does not utilize drugs or surgical procedures.  While chiropractic recognizes that drugs and surgery may be necessary at times, it also understands their limitations and risks.  Therefore, chiropractic takes a non-invasive approach to illness.

Education

A minimum of six years goes into the making of a chiropractic physician.  Entrance into a chiropractic college requires at least two years undergraduate work in pre-med subjects.  Chiropractic colleges are generally four-year institutions.  Their curriculum places special emphasis on anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, biomechanics, x-ray, spinal adjusting techniques, and related subjects.  The training includes an internship period, usually in the school's clinic.

A chiropractic education never ends!  The state of Arizona requires twelve hours post-graduate instruction for a chiropractic physician's annual license renewal.  

Initial Visit

Upon arrival for your first visit you will be asked to complete the necessary paperwork to help the doctor understand the history of your health.  Next you will meet with the doctor, who will review your health history and determine if your problem is likely to be helped with chiropractic care.  Doctors of chiropractic recognize the value and responsibility of working in cooperation with other health care practitioners when in the best interest of the patient.  A thorough examination will follow your consultation with the doctor.  If necessary, x-ray views of your spine may be taken.  Your doctor will study the results of these examinations and explain what they mean.  Then, the doctor will recommend a care program designed for your unique problem.

Insurance Coverage

Chiropractic is a valid choice recognized by health insurers.  Virtually all major commercial health insurance carriers include chiropractic in their policies.  Many major industrial employers offer it in their health plans.

All fifty states, including the state of Arizona have authorized chiropractic as part of the workers compensation program, and most include a choice of chiropractic services under all commercial health and accident policies.  Chiropractic is also covered under Medicare.

If your insurance company does not cover chiropractic services as part of your health and insurance program, take the hands-on approach yourself.  Call or write them to show your support for your right to make educated healthcare choices.

What is an Adjustment?

An adjustment is the specific manipulation of vertebrae which have abnormal movement patterns or fail to function properly.  Unless corrected through manipulation ("adjustment"), such abnormal spinal function may negatively impact nerve activity.

Safety and Effectiveness

After reviewing the many treatments for low back pain, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has recommended spinal manipulation for acute low back pain relief.

A study done by the New Zealand government has also concluded that spinal adjustments given by registered chiropractic doctors are safe, and that their chiropractic education helps the doctors assess and manage spinal problems at a very high level.