I have seen other Chiropractors before and they were good enough to just fix me by feel; so why do I need x-rays here?
There are lots of reasons for this and it is often related to finance. X-ray equipment has always been very expensive and many Chiropractors chose not to risk the expense. Also, many Chiropractors don’t specialize in difficult cases and therefore don’t learn to analyze the films as we will.
It is true though that much of Chiropractic is related to the art and feel of the practice. Even we will see a patient who cannot be x-rayed, a pregnant lady for example, but it is foolish in our opinion to have the facility to look directly at the spinal structure and not utilize it. It provides an abundance of extra information that is easy to get and free of any risk.
Why do I need x-rays?
First, we need to rule out any pathology like arthritis, infection, cancer, bone growths and so on. We do not expect to see most of these, but we do need to know if they’re there. Then we need to measure the disc spaces and shape which will allow us to find the site of spinal subluxation and nerve pressure and also find the specific site on the bone that we’ll need to contact in order to get you better.
Have many scientific studies proven chiropractic’s effectiveness?
Yes, many double-blind scientific studies have demonstrated chiropractic’s superior effectiveness for the treatment of neck and low back pain, particularly when combined with physical therapy. More recent studies have shown chiropractic to be effective in treating infantile colic, migraine headaches, and other conditions.
What is the proper lifting technique?
Before lifting objects, inhale deeply, and then while performing the lift, exhale with the mouth opened slightly to create mild pressure in the rib cage. While bending, maintain the forward curve in the low back bending at the knees. Using one’s legs for most of the work will prevent the forward curve in the low back from reversing which could severely damage the lumbar area. Hold objects close to one’s body which keeps spinal flexion to a minimum.
How should one best sit?
Sit on firm chairs that support the normally arching forward curve in the low back by placing lumbar support in the lower portion of the backrest. Adjust the seat of your car so that one’s knees are level with one’s hips and that the backs of your thighs feel even pressure — not the usual extra pressure near one’s pelvis. Avoid driving with the left knee higher than the right knee. Often patients report that they drive with the left knee pulled up, rotated out and leaning on the door. This twists the pelvis and shortens the muscles that rotate the left leg outward, which increases their chances for spasms and discomfort.
How does standing too long create pain?
When standing for extended periods, rest one foot atop a small stool to decrease a stretch of the psoas muscle of the elevated leg. This reduces pressure in the muscles in the front of the spine, at the lumbar (low back) spine which often gets tight and can cause low back pain.
What is the best sleeping surface?
The American Chiropractic Association approved Springwall Chiropractic Mattress as the best quality and most comfortable spinal-supportive system on the market. It supports the spine sufficiently while allowing moisture (rehydration, otherwise known as imbibition) to reenter the spinal discs. This allows the discs to regain height, nourishment, and strength. The best sleeping posture is on one’s back with the legs elevated nine inches with a leg-lift pillow and a Therapeutic chiropractic cervical (neck) pillow. The leg-lift places the low back in a supported and comfortable position and the cervical pillow supports the normal architecture of the neck bones which decreases neck muscle tension. Pain-free and deeper sleep is often achieved when following this advice.
What is the history of chiropractic?
Manipulative therapy has been performed, likely, for centuries, attested to by the etchings found on the inside walls of ancient pyramids. The first recorded chiropractic manipulation was performed on September 18, 1895, by Dr. Daniel David Palmer, a Canadian-born teacher, and healer. Dr. Palmer was at the time studying the cause and effect of disease. His patient was Harvey Lillard, a janitor working in the same building as Dr. Palmer in Davenport, Iowa. Mr. Lillard, who had complained of hearing problems for over 17 years, allowed Dr. Palmer to examine his spine. Palmer discovered a “lump” on Lillard’s back and suspected that a vertebra might be out of place, which he then repositioned with a gentle thrust. After several such treatments, much of Mr. Lillard’s hearing was restored.
Since Dr. Palmer’s first chiropractic manipulation, the art and science of chiropractic have progressed significantly. Chiropractic neurologists now utilize advanced diagnostic procedures, sophisticated physical therapy, and rehabilitation equipment. A growing body of scientific research has proven chiropractic’s effectiveness, which has led to greater acceptance among other health care professionals. Chiropractic is a popular health care choice with as many as 13% of the United States population receiving regular care, and up to 40% of the population having visited us.