Chiropractor

What Is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractors are doctors who use spinal manipulation and other forms of alternative medicine to treat medical issues without surgery or drugs. This type of medicine operates on the theory that the proper alignment of the musculoskeletal system allows the body to heal itself and restore mobility. Clients who seek chiropractic care often do so as a result of a fall or for help with a repetitive motion or stress injury. Many patients are also looking for relief from muscle, bone, joint, and connective tissue pain. Chiropractic care may be used in lieu of or in conjunction with traditional medical treatment.

Do I Need a Referral From a Physician or My Insurance Company to See a Chiropractor?

While you should read the specifics of your policy, you usually don’t need a referral from your primary care physician to see a chiropractic doctor. To be sure, you may want to contact your insurance company to get coverage information and referral requirements. If your insurance is through an employer, you may also be able to get this information from the Human Resources department. Deductibles, copays, and covered services vary widely from policy to policy, so it’s essential to investigate your coverage to avoid any financial surprises later. For example, some insurance companies cover the chiropractor’s services but not x-rays.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Everyone?

To learn more about whether chiropractic care is a good option for you, contact a knowledgeable and experienced professional in your area. As with all types of medical treatments, you want to understand all the risks and potential benefits of receiving care. While chiropractic care is generally safe for conditions like low back pain, headaches, and neck pain, contraindications do exist. For example, patients who have osteoporosis, inflammatory arthritis, or prescribed blood thinners, should not have spinal manipulation treatments. Also, patients with cancer should proceed with caution as advised by their primary care physician and oncologist.

Where Can I Learn Whether Chiropractic Care Is Right for Me?

Known as a DC, these medical professionals usually have an undergraduate degree and four or more years of chiropractic training. The first visit to a DC usually involves a complete assessment that may include imaging studies and a full review of your health status. The best way to determine whether chiropractic care is a good solution for your condition is to consult a knowledgeable doctor of chiropractic in your area.

Reach out to a Chiropractor, like the chiropractors at Mid-atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic to make an appointment or for further assistance.