Frequently Asked Questions

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a health care discipline whose primary focus is the treatment of the musculoskeletal and nervous system. The most common therapeutic procedure performed by doctors of chiropractic is known as “chiropractic adjustment”, also called “spinal manipulation.” The purpose of the adjustment is to restore joint mobility that has become impaired, correct postural imbalances, and normalize nerve function. While treatment is often directed to provide relief from pain, the ultimate goal of chiropractic care is to address the “root cause” of the condition and not just the resulting symptoms.

What is an adjustment?

Also known as joint manipulation, it is a gentle, carefully placed thrust that restores motion to a stiff joint. The chiropractor usually delivers the adjustment by hand, but occasionally uses other instruments. The purpose of the chiropractic adjustment is to restore functionality, improve range of motion, and decrease pain and muscle spasms.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe?

Absolutely. Compared to other medical treatments, which include medication and surgery, chiropractic is by far the safest.

Does the Adjustment hurt?

Most chiropractic adjustments are not only painless; they actually feel great and can bring a sense of relief. In cases of injury, there may be some irritation to the inflamed tissue, which may cause some initial discomfort. Application of ice after treatment will soothe the irritation.

Do the doctors treat areas other than the spine?

Certainly. Our doctors have had extensive training in the management of extremity problems with chiropractic. Common extra spinal areas treated include the ankles and feet, knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, wrists, and TMJ.

Should I tell my other doctors that I am receiving care at Lighthouse Chiropractic?

We encourage our patients to inform their medical doctors about our office. In fact, our practice enjoys working together with any of your healthcare providers. We will gladly provide information to your primary care physician as a courtesy to you and your caregivers. The key to comprehensive care is communication.

Can chiropractic help alleviate allergies?

Millions of people suffer from a wide variety of conditions, unfortunately allergies rank up there at the top. People suffering from allergies have benefited from chiropractic care even though chiropractic is not an allergy treatment. Why? Because chiropractic helps your body function at its best. Chiropractic releases stress on the nervous system, which permits the immune system to function more effectively. And when your immune system is operating at 100%, it recognizes and destroys anything not supposed to be in you: bacteria, viruses, pollutants, dust, pollen, drugs, tumors, and dead pieces of your own skin cells. A healthy immune system means a high resistance to disease and infection, better ability to deal with stress, and better health and well-being. Less stress on your nervous system means your body will work more effectively to neutralize the allergy causing chemicals in your environment. The result is you feeling better.

Are Chiropractic Adjustments Safe During Pregnancy?

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe for both mother and baby. Spinal adjustments are especially gentle during pregnancy as far less force is required to correct subluxations. During pregnancy, most women experience a number of problems that can result in increased stress on the body, which can lead to pain and discomfort. Since all medications taken by the mother cross into the developing baby’s blood stream, chiropractic is a much safer option to reduce pain and discomfort. Regular chiropractic care is an integral part of the prenatal and postpartum care during pregnancy. It helps keep mom feeling well and assists her in coping with the physical stresses of an ever changing body.

Is Chiropractic safe for kids and babies?

Did you know that chiropractic is not just for adults? Our doctors are both skilled in treating children, whether it is an infant a few hours old to teenagers. It’s funny how we bring our kids to the dentist to promote good health for our teeth. But when it comes to promoting good health for the body, we do not schedule regular chiropractic appointments for our children unless they are old enough to say there is something wrong.

Why would a child need to be adjusted?

Many spinal problems seen in adults could have actually begun as early as birth. Birth can stress an infant’s spine and developing nervous system. The resulting misalignment can cause many newborn health complaints: colic, breathing problems, nursing difficulties, and sleep disturbances. Even chronic infections can be traced to nervous system stress. Since significant spinal trauma can occur at birth, many parents have their newborns checked shortly after birth. As an infant grows, learning to hold up the head, sitting, crawling, and walking are all activities that affect spinal alignment and are important times to have a child checked.