Over the years there have been many myths that have formulated concerning Chiropractic and its role in healthcare. Due to these misconceptions, people are misinformed about the safety, effectiveness, and benefits of regular chiropractic care. Therefore, I have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about chiropractors and chiropractic healthcare to begin our journey into the natural world of healing.
What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractors look to the spine and its relationship to the nervous system in order to help your body heal itself. If the spine moves out of alignment and pinches a nerve, then that nerve can’t communicate efficiently between the brain and the area it controls in your body. Prolonged misalignment of your spine and compression of your nerves can lead to chronic pain, degenerative arthritis, muscle tension, organ dysfunction and a myriad of other health-related illnesses. A chiropractor therefore focuses on areas of your spine that are misaligned in order to help you overcome a variety of health conditions. By realigning the bones of your spine, pressure is taken off the nerves and your body is able to communicate and heal itself to the best of its ability.
Is chiropractic safe?

Chiropractic care is safer than many forms of health care in the United States and abroad. An estimated 40 million Chiropractic adjustments will be given this year with approximately 4-6 adjustments causing detrimental effects to the patient. The medical profession alone will claim approximately 4,000 lives this year from reactions to prescription drugs! Chiropractic is safe and effective for all ages, from newborns to the elderly. There are many techniques that are designed for all ages and health conditions. These techniques allow for diversity when adjusting children and pregnant women, as well as patients with histories of osteoporosis, disc protrusions, arthritic degeneration, and cardiovascular disease.
Once you start, do you have to go forever?

Many chiropractors will tell their patients that they should seek Chiropractic care for the rest of their lives in order for your body to always be at its optimal healing potential. By having your spine aligned once a month, every three months, or even twice a year, your nervous system will be free of interference and will be able to direct the body in its processes much more efficiently. It is similar to going to the dentist twice a year…this prevents tooth decay and many related diseases. Regular chiropractic care helps prevent many spinal problems and related ailments throughout your life.
How long will YOU have to come for your specific ailment if you choose not to seek regular Chiropractic care? This depends upon your condition and your body’s ability to heal itself after your spine is realigned. Every condition and person is unique and the ability to heal is different in each individual. Factors involved are: How long you have had this condition; the mechanism of injury; the extent of damage to your spine, muscles, and soft tissues; the condition of your spine prior to the accident; your current health status, age, activity level, and attitude.
What type of education do chiropractors receive?

Chiropractors, like other types of doctors, start with undergraduate studies in the basic sciences. After required pre-med undergraduate studies are complete, Chiropractors complete an additional four-year program at one of the 16 Chiropractic colleges in the United States or abroad. By the time Doctors of Chiropractic (D.C.) graduate, they will have accomplished approximately 400 semester hours of coursework. This extensive curriculum prepares the doctor to examine, assess, and help correct nervous system dysfunction through the art of spinal realignment. Before graduating, Chiropractors pass parts I-IV of a National Board Examination. Chiropractors must then pass a State board exam to practice in each respective state. Doctors attend 12-18 hours of continuing education and scientific symposiums a year to stay abreast the latest research, techniques, and philosophy of Chiropractic health care. Chiropractors can also go on to specialize in fields such as pediatrics, orthopedics, neurology, x-ray, sports, and nutrition, to name a few.
Does insurance cover chiropractic care?

Chiropractic is covered by insurance companies with each company having their own guidelines over payment for chiropractic services. Chiropractors may have to apply to become providers for your insurance company. If they were not able to become providers then your insurance would be ineffective at that particular office. If you call the office they will be able to help you with your specific insurance inquiries.
These are just a few of the questions and topics that I will continue to answer and inform you of within each issue of “A Woman’s View.” If you have any further questions please feel free to email me at drheather@mccarterchiropractic.com. I look forward to helping you, and your families, with information on natural, chiropractic healthcare.
-Heather McCarter, D.C.
McCarter Chiropractic Clinic, Inc.

Montpelier Family Chiropractic  16603 Mountain Rd. Montpelier, Va. 23192 Ph1: 804-883-3000 Fax: 804-883-3060
email: DrNeiss@MontpelierChiro.com     website: www.MontpelierChiro.com