What is chiropractic care?
Chiropractic care is a health care profession based on interactions of the spine and nervous system, as well as the surrounding muscles. Doctors of Chiropractic (also known as chiropractors) focus on non-invasive, drug-free treatments for a variety of systems and conditions that may include:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Sciatica
- Headaches and migraines
- Joint pain, strains and sprainscc
- Soft tissue disorders
(Note: This list is not inclusive of every spinal condition treated with chiropractic care. Talk directly with a chiropractor to determine if he or she treats your specific spinal condition.)
Chiropractic care is an important tool that helps you get back to enjoying life. Beyond reducing pain, spinal adjustments enhance the ability of the nervous system to function at an optimal level
What To Expect – First Visit
The main goal of your first visit is to have an examination and reach a diagnosis, so that we can treat properly.
Chiropractic Physical Examination
Once the history has been completed, Dr. Muscarella will perform a thorough chiropractic examination which will include specific orthopedic and neurological tests to assess:
◾Range of motion of the affected part
◾Muscle tone/spams
◾Muscle strength
◾Neurological integrity
Once you have been diagnosed, the chiropractor will develop a personalized treatment plan. The plan may include how many treatments you will need and what other procedures might occur.
Patients sometimes make the mistake of receiving treatment once, but then fail to follow up with their chiropractor for the recommended treatments afterward. For optimal results, you should complete the treatment plan that you discussed with your chiropractor.
Does Chiropractic Care Hurt?
Chiropractic manipulation is a highly controlled procedure that rarely causes discomfort. Techniques emphasize minimal force and gentle pressure. Many patients report a popping sound during their adjustment. The popping noises sometimes heard are your joints releasing tiny pockets of gas. This is completely normal.
To promote healing after an adjustment, your chiropractor may instruct you to:
•Use an ice pack on the treated area
•Try light stretching exercises
•Avoid heavy lifting
•Refrain from intense physical exercise for at least 3-5 days
We offer x-rays in our office, but an MRI scan, lab tests and/or more extensive images may be referred to an outside center as needed.