Frequently Asked Questions

How does chiropractic work?

Chiropractic care is the practice of using spinal adjustive procedures to alleviate a wide variety of physical ailments, including muscle strain, neck pain, constant back pain, and more. This is accomplished by restoring the normal biomechanics and function of the spine, providing a non-invasive solution for pain relief. People sometimes relate chiropractic as being something typically for neck and back pain, but chiropractic treatment can be used to treat a wide variety of physical issues, such as migraines and headaches, constant pain, carpal tunnel, pain due to injury or muscle strain, and much more. At Herring Spine & Rehab our chiropractic team is ready to meet with you to discuss your needs and design a program that is right for you. We look forward to meeting you.

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is a gentle, controlled force applied to a specific joint—most often in the spine—to help restore proper function of the spine, improve movement, and relieve pressure on nerves. Chiropractic physicians use their hands or specialized instruments to perform the adjustment. The goal is to improve the body’s natural ability to heal, reduce pain, and enhance overall function without the use of drugs or surgery. Many patients experience immediate relief, improved mobility, and a greater sense of well-being following an adjustment.

What kind of training do chiropractors have?

Doctors of chiropractic, like medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy, optometrists, dentists, and podiatrists, have a minimum of four years of undergraduate education and a minimum of four years of professional education. Chiropractic colleges are accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education, which is affiliated with the U.S. Department of Higher Education. Chiropractic students spend a minimum of 4,200 hours in the classroom and a minimum of 1,000 hours of fully supervised clinical training with an instructor as they learn the appropriate diagnosis and treatment techniques to help heal the body and restore it to its natural, fully functioning state.

Is chiropractic safe?

Yes. In fact, of all the primary care providers, chiropractors have the lowest practice liability insurance rates. Chiropractic care is considered safe when performed by a licensed and trained chiropractor. It is a widely used form of treatment for conditions like back pain, neck pain, and certain types of headaches. Most people experience relief and occasionally have only mild side effects such as temporary soreness or fatigue after treatment.

How effective is chiropractic?

Chiropractic care can be highly effective for many musculoskeletal conditions, particularly back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint issues. Numerous studies support spinal manipulation as a safe, drug-free treatment that can reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life. Results vary depending on the condition being treated, the patient’s overall health, and consistency of care.

Are adjustments painful?

Chiropractic adjustments are generally not painful. Most people feel relief, increased mobility, or a sense of release after an adjustment. Some may hear a popping sound, which is simply gas being released from the joint—similar to cracking your knuckles. Occasionally, especially if it’s your first adjustment or if you’re very tense or inflamed, you might feel mild soreness afterward—similar to how you might feel after a workout. (Like unjamming a finger may feel sore afterwards depending on how inflamed it is, but the finger must be unjammed to heal.) Mild soreness usually goes away within a day or two. Chiropractors use gentle, controlled techniques and can always adjust their approach based on your comfort level.

Does insurance cover chiropractic care?

Yes. We accept most insurance providers and our friendly insurance staff can check on your specific insurance carrier.

Do I have to take off my clothes?

No. Chiropractic adjustments are done with clothing on.

Can children get chiropractic treatment?

Yes. Our office treats children on a regular basis and they receive the same benefits as adults, often responding much faster to treatment. In the United States 80% of all adults will experience low back pain, while 25% of school-aged children will. Chiropractic physicians offers a drug-free, safe, effective treatment for children.

Can pregnant women see a chiropractor?

Yes, pregnant women can safely see a chiropractor. In fact, chiropractic care during pregnancy is quite common and can be very beneficial as a drug-free method of pain relief. Chiropractors use gentle, specialized techniques to help relieve common pregnancy discomforts like back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatica without medications. One of the most common causes of low back pain during pregnancy is sacroiliac syndrome. Chiropractic has shown to be very effective with this condition. Chiropractic physicians can also help improve posture and balance as the body changes during pregnancy.