Doctors of Chiropractic medicine (D.C.s) adjust the spine with easy, manual thrusts to move the spinal vertebrae back to their normal positions. A chiropractor will sometimes also adjust the joints of the neck, arms, and legs.

A chiropractor will take a medical history, conduct physical, neurological, and orthopedic examinations. Chiropractic physicians spend a considerable amount of time assessing posture, examining the spine, testing reflexes, joint motion, and muscle strength.

X-rays and other diagnostic images are often used to locate vertebral dysfunction and to rule out disorders like tumors or fractures, which require the attention of other healthcare experts.

Chiropractors are licensed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. A rigorous course of study is necessary to receive a degree of Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.). There are over 60,000 D.C.s practicing in the United States and all state licensing boards require two to four years of undergraduate education, as well as completion of a four-year chiropractic college course.

• If you have never been adjusted, or if it has been awhile since your last adjustment, you may experience soreness or discomfort for a few hours to a few days. This is a normal reaction to chiropractic adjustments.
• If you are sore, use ice packs on the affected area. Ice therapy consists of the use of ice packs at 20-minute intervals followed by 40 minutes of rest. This can be repeated as often as needed. Do not apply ice directly to bare skin. Always protect skin with a thin covering such as a shirt or light towel. Cover the ice pack with a thick towel to retain the cold.
• Do not use heat except under the doctor’s instruction. Heat may aggravate your injury.
• Stay away from heavy lifting or repetitive movements until the doctor indicates you are ready for normal activities such as running, lift weights, impact aerobics, racquetball, tennis, skiing, bowling, should be avoided. Other things to avoid are yard work such as raking, digging, lifting heavy objects such as groceries, pets and children, and any other activates that could aggravate or re-injure your condition.
• Unless indicated by the doctor, you may return to work/school after your appointment.
• If a sudden movement caused sharp pain or severe pain, or if your experience swelling please contact the clinic at 256-881-1575.