Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do you adjust children?
Many spinal problems seen in adults begin in childhood and children naturally enjoy chiropractic adjustments. Adjusting techniques are modified to fit the child's size, weight and unique spinal problems.
The birth process may be one of the most traumatic events of our lives. Even "natural" birthing methods can stress a still developing spine. The resulting irritation to the nervous system can be the cause of many newborn health complaints. Colic, poor appetite, breathing problems, and allergic reactions can be traced to nervous system dysfunction caused by a malfunctioning spine. Head support, followed by crawling, and baby's first steps should be followed by chiropractic checkups. The bumps and falls during this period of rapid growth may lead to serious spinal problems and a weakened immune system response. For older children, contact sports or repeated one-sided activities can interfere with proper growth during rapid stages of spinal development.
2. Is Chiropractic safe when you're pregnant?
Yes and regularly scheduled chiropractic checkups, combined with proper diet, exercise and personal hygene can enhance your well-being. Many women find their labor shorter and experience less discomfort when they receive chiropractic care. As the center of gravity changes, including the shifting of weight-bearing structures, and the laxity of connective ligaments, many pregnant women experience stress to the spine causing low back pain. Dr. Ough takes special precautions with adjustments using modifications to the table or adjusting techniques during each stage of the pregnancy.
3. What education and training do Chiropractors have?
The basic education and training of the Doctor of Chiropractic is very similar to that of the Medical Doctor (over 4200 hours). The science of chiropractic, however, requires a special emphasis on anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, biomechanics, x-ray imaging techniques, spinal adjusting techniques and other health related subjects. Like Medical students, chiropractic students also serve an internship. During the chiropractic internship, students are required to develop their own intern patient base which encourages a real-world experience in the doctor-patient relationship.
After graduating, each D.C.must then pass a series of demanding National Board Examinations. They must also apply to the governing state agency where they wish to practice and an additional examination is then given that must be passed before the D.C. is granted license to practice. Further, Doctors of Chiropractic must complete postgraduate instruction for annual license renewal - so the D.C.'s education never ends!
4. Is Chiropractic safe?
Not only is the Doctor of Chiropractic highly educated but they are strictly regulated which is probably one of the reasons that it has the most safe record of treatment health care industry wide.
Chiropractors are highly skilled in the art of adjusting all the articulations of the body, thereby reducing or minimizing the effects of chronic or acute trauma and biomechanical instability. The adjustment is a gentle and specific maneuver which can be applied effectively and safely to people no matter their age. The purpose of chiropractic professional education is to provide the doctoral candidate with a core of knowledge in the basic sciences, clinical sciences, and related health subjects sufficient for the doctor of chiropractic to perform the professional obligations of a primary care clinician. As a gatekeeper for direct access to the health delivery system, responsibilities as a primary care clinician include wellness promotion, health assessment, diagnosis, and chiropractic management of the patient's health care needs. When indicated, the doctor of chiropractic consults with, co-manages, or refers to other health care providers.
