-
- What is chiropractic? Chiropractors diagnose and treat back and neck pain and are considered by definition
primary care physicians as they are often the first doctor a patient will visit when experiencing back pain. Chiropractors,
also known as doctors of chiropractic or chiropractic physicians, diagnose and treat patients whose health problems are associated
with the body's muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, especially the spine.
Chiropractic education consists
of four academic years of chiropractic training, as well as a one-year internship at a college clinic. Successful completion
of 3 levels of National Boards is required for chiropractors and a fourth level for those who use physiologic therapeutics
in their practice. Part IV is often used for state licensing and tests knowledge of diagnostic imaging, chiropractic technique,
and case management.
The chiropractic profession holds that spinal or vertebral dysfunction alters many important
body functions by affecting the nervous system, and that skeletal imbalance through joint or articular dysfunction - especially
in the spine - can cause pain and/or dysfunction.
As with all healthcare practitioners, chiropractors follow a
standard routine to secure the information needed for diagnosis and treatment. When the source of pain involves musculoskeletal
structures, chiropractors manipulate or adjust the spinal column. Many chiropractors also use massage, electric,
and heat therapy and may apply supports such as straps, taping and braces. They may also counsel patients about wellness concepts
such as nutrition, exercise, lifestyle changes, and stress management, but do not prescribe drugs or perform surgery. When
appropriate, chiropractors consult with and refer patients to other health practitioners. 1
Chiropractic
is considered an integral part of the back care team as noted in many guidelines published in this and other countries and
many chiropractors have joined multidisciplinary spine care practices.
-
- What conditions
benefit from chiropractic? Neuromusculoskeletal conditions - these being conditions
that affect the nervous system, the muscular system, or the skeletal system. Chiropractic is very safe and effective
for back, neck, and extremity pains. A detailed exam of your specific complaint will be done by the doctor and then
he will inform you of whether or not chiropractic is indicated for your diagnosis.
-
- Do the adjustments hurt?
Dr. Frankum uses a handheld adjusting instrument to adjust the joints in the body. This is generally painless, however,
slight tenderness at the point of adjustment may be felt. Instrument adjustments are very high speed adjustments,
so Dr. Frankum does not have to apply high force to manipulate the joints.
-
- What can I expect at my first visit?
Dr. Frankum will go over your pertinent medical and physical history. He will listen to your
complaint and then perform a focused exam on the complaint area. Following the exam, Dr. Frankum will explain what your
diagnosis is. He will then explain your treatment plan and what types of things you can do to improve your condition yourself.
Last he will treat you. You should wear clothing that is comfortable. You will not be required, at any time, to
remove your clothing. All exams and adjustments can be done through your clothes.
-
- Do I have to keep coming back for ever? Dr. Frankum's number one goal is to
get you out of pain as fast as possible. Many times this means you will have to follow a series of adjustments.
Usually this level of care lasts less than one month. Once you are out of pain, you will be placed in Supportive
Care. Supportive Care is as needed and allows you to get treated as you need it. Some patients choose to continue
regular care because they feel so much better when they do and they generally have fewer problems arise. Some patients
just come in when they are having problems. Dr. Frankum allows you to choose your level of care after you are out of
pain.
If you have a specific question, please fill
out the form below and we will respond as soon as possible.
References 1 Shalen, Philip M.D., Primary Care Providers, Spine
Health, http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/pain-management/primary-care-providers, viewed 11/24/08.
|
|
