Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the body’s structure—mainly the spine—and its functioning. Although we vary in our services, we may use a variety of treatment approaches primarily adjustments (manipulations) to the spine or other parts of the body. The goal is to correct alignment problems, alleviating pain, improving function, and supporting the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

During the initial visit, we typically take a health history and perform a physical examination, with a special emphasis on the spine. Other examinations or tests such as x-rays may also be performed. If chiropractic treatment is considered appropriate, a treatment plan will be developed.

During follow-up visits, we may perform one or more of the many different types of adjustments and other manual therapies used in chiropractic care. Given mainly to the spine, an adjustment involves using the hands or a device to apply a controlled, rapid force to a joint. The goal is to increase the range and quality of motion in the area being treated and to aid in restoring health. Joint mobilization is another type of manual therapy that may be used.

We sometimes combine the use of spinal adjustments and other manual therapies with several other treatments and approaches such as:

• Heat and ice
• Electrical stimulation
• Relaxation techniques
• Rehabilitative and general exercise
• Counseling about diet, weight loss, and other lifestyle factors
• Dietary supplements.