Common Questions

What is chiropractic care?
Chiropractic focuses on the joints, muscles, and nervous system. Care usually combines hands-on joint adjustments/mobilizations, soft-tissue work, and exercise so you move with less pain and better function.

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Is chiropractic safe?
Yes when performed by a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic. Mild soreness can happen for 24–48 hours. We screen for red flags and collaborate with your MD when needed.

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What conditions do chiropractors treat?
Commonly: low back and neck pain, headaches/migraines, sciatica, disc issues, shoulder/hip/knee pain, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, TMJ, and sports strains/overuse injuries.

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What happens at my first visit?

• Conversation about your pain, goals, and history

• Movement + orthopedic/neuro testing (imaging only if appropriate)

• An initial treatment (if safe) and a clear plan with home advice

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Will the adjustment hurt? What’s the “pop”?

Adjustments are typically comfortable and feel relieving. The “pop” is just gas moving in the joint (cavitation), not bones rubbing. Some people prefer low-force methods—totally fine.

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How many visits will I need?

It depends on the condition, how long you’ve had it, and your goals. Many acute issues improve meaningfully within a few weeks; chronic/complex cases take longer. We reassess progress and adjust the plan.

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Do I need X-rays or an MRI?
Not usually. Imaging is ordered for trauma, suspected serious conditions, or when your progress isn’t on track. We follow evidence-based guidelines.

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What’s the difference between a sports chiropractor and a regular chiropractor?
Sports chiros have additional training in athletic injuries, movement assessment, and return-to-play. Expect:

• Deeper movement/biomechanics testing

• More soft-tissue techniques (e.g., IASTM, myofascial release)

• Taping, load management, and performance-minded rehab
  They’re great for athletes and active people of all ages.

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Why combine chiropractic care with massage or soft-tissue therapy?

Muscles and fascia can “guard” around irritated joints. Soft-tissue work:

• Reduces tone/trigger points so adjustments are easier and last longer

• Improves circulation and tissue quality

• Helps resolve overuse adhesions and speeds recovery

Many patients feel best when soft-tissue care and adjustments are paired.

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What is shockwave therapy and who is it for?
Shockwave uses acoustic energy to stimulate healing in stubborn soft-tissue problems (e.g., plantar fasciitis, Achilles or patellar tendon pain, tennis elbow, calcific shoulder). Sessions take 20-30 minutes; 6-8 visits are common. You may feel brief discomfort and a day or two of soreness. It’s not for areas with active infection, tumors, open growth plates, or certain blood-thinner/bleeding conditions. We’ll screen you first.

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Radial vs. Focused shockwave—what’s the difference?

• Radial (RSWT): energy spreads broadly; great for larger/superficial areas

• Focused (FSWT): deeper, more precise energy for targeted lesions

Clinics may use one or both depending on your diagnosis and tolerance.

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Can I be treated without the “crack”?

Absolutely. Options include low-force mobilizations, drop-table, instrument-assisted adjustments (Activator), traction, and rehab—no thrust needed if you don’t want it.

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Will I get exercises or homework?
Yes. Specific mobility, stability, and strength work is key to long-term results. We’ll give you a short, doable plan and progress it as you improve.

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Is chiropractic safe for pregnancy, kids, and older adults?
Yes—with technique modifications. We use gentle, pregnancy-safe positions; age-appropriate force for kids; and osteoporosis-aware approaches for older adults.

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Do I need a referral? Is it covered by insurance?
Most people don’t need a referral. Many plans, HSAs, and FSAs cover chiropractic; coverage varies by plan and service (e.g., shockwave, massage). We can check benefits and outline costs up front.

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