Chiropractic

Chiropractic focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and general health. It most often treats neuromusculoskeletal complaints, not only in the low back and the neck but also in the extremities. Doctors of Chiropractic (sometimes chiropractic physicians) requires 4 years of graduate school after taking all the prerequisite courses through undergrad. Doctors of Chiropractic use a hands-on, drug-free approach to health care that includes patient examination, diagnosis and treatment. Some other tests that may be used are diagnostic imaging, laboratory testing, and more to make the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan for each individual. Chiropractors are able to diagnose muscular disorders and make the approach referral if needed.

Research

[Chiropractic Manipulative Therapy] in conjunction with [standard medical care] offers a significant advantage for decreasing pain and improving physical functioning when compared with only standard care, for men and women between 18 and 35 years of age with acute low back pain.

Goertz et al. (2013), Spine

In our randomized, controlled trial, we compared the effectiveness of manual therapy, physical therapy, and continued care by a general practitioner in patients with nonspecific neck pain. The success rate at seven weeks was twice as high for the manual therapy group (68.3 percent) as for the continued care group (general practitioner). Manual therapy scored better than physical therapy on all outcome measures. Patients receiving manual therapy had fewer absences from work than patients receiving physical therapy or continued care, and manual therapy and physical therapy each resulted in statistically significant less analgesic use than continued care.

Hoving et al (2002), Annals of Internal Medicine

Cervical spine manipulation was associated with significant improvement in headache outcomes in trials involving patients with neck pain and/or neck dysfunction a nd headache.

McCrory, Penzlen, Hasselblad, Gray (2001), Duke Evidence Report

Chiropractic Services

Chiropractic Manipulation

Also referred to as an “adjustment. Adjustments are used to joints that are found the be hypomobile, or restricted movement, to restore joint mobility. This is done by using a hands on approach applying controlled force in a specific direction. At Well Adjusted, the manipulation technique that is predominantly used is “Diversified Technique” which tends to be the “Gold Standard.” Depending on the patient, a HVLA (high velocity, low amplitude) adjustment or more of a mobilization depending on patient’s comfort and whether or not a HVLA adjustment is appropriate.

Soft Tissue Massage

Direct physical action on the muscles, tendons, fascia, and the surrounding areas. The technique and pressure varies depending on the need of the patient. This helps relax muscles, increase blood circulation, lymph flow, increase endorphins, and more. Dr. Deb does a gentle soft tissue to patients depending on the medical need to help relax the body, and stimulate the area to receive the best medical benefits of the adjustment. Katina Clarke is a licensed massage therapist with training in many different massage techniques.

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Massage (ISATM)

Using the narson tool to breakdown scar tissue and adhesions to increase blood flow, increase lymphatic drainage and promote the healing process.

Physical Therapy