For
your convenience we have listed some of the frequently asked
questions having to do with chiropractic care and our
office.
If your question is not asked or fully answered here, please send your question via email to: drpaul@kerkhoffchiropractic.com.
Chiropractic is
a branch of the healing arts based upon the understanding that good health
depends, in part, upon a normally functioning nervous system (especially the
spine, and the nerves extending from the spine to all parts of the body). Chiropractic is based on the
scientific fact that your body is a self-regulating, self-healing organism.
These important functions are controlled by the brain, spinal cord, and all the
nerves of the body.
Quality chiropractic care is an integral part of any wellness program -- an
important tool in maintaining good health.
A chiropractic physician's goal is to make your spine healthy and keep it
that way. This is accomplished through chiropractic adjustment -- a gentle,
painless, low force technique unique to chiropractic physicians.
Holistic chiropractic care has
proven to be a safe, natural, drug-free way to good health for millions of
people around the world. It is the fastest growing health care system today and
for good reason -- it gets results.
Chiropractic works by restoring your own inborn ability to be healthy. When
under the proper control of your nervous system, all the cells, tissues, and
organs of your body are designed to resists disease and ill health. The
chiropractic approach to better health is to locate and help remove
interferences to your natural state of being healthy.
A common interference to the nervous system is the 24 moving bones of the
spinal column. A loss of normal motion or position (called a subluxation) of these bones can irritate
or impair the function of the nervous system. This can disrupt the transmission
of controlling nerve impulses.
With improved spinal function there is often improved nervous system
function. Your chiropractic doctor can help remove interferences that may be
impairing normal health.
Since the primary focus of your care is improved nervous system
function, chiropractic can have a positive effect on many health conditions not
normally though of as “back” problems.
Injury, stress or chronic pain most
often are the reasons people seek chiropractic care. Because chiropractic treats
the underlying causes of these problems rather than just relieving symptoms,
your body’s natural healing processes work for you. The chiropractic approach
to better health is to locate and help correct interferences to your body’s
natural state of good health.
Today’s Doctor of Chiropractic is
highly trained in identifying and evaluating functional problems associated with
the spinal column and skilled in restoring proper spinal biomechanics and nerve
function.
With a program of regular spinal
maintenance, many patients recover a degree of health and vigor greater than
they enjoyed before their problem occurred.
Yes. Symptoms are not a good way to
judge health. They sometimes surface after years of body malfunction.
Chiropractic has an excellent safety
record. While it’s not unusual to hear of injuries from mis-prescribed drugs,
drug overdoses, drug combinations and erroneous treatments in the medical
profession, it is extremely rare to hear of a problem resulting from
chiropractic care. According to a government study in New Zealand, chiropractic
care was found to be “remarkably safe.”
Chiropractic
treatments are safe because we only use natural and noninvasive
methods of care. Research consistently shows that care from chiropractors is
among the safest care available and is literally light years ahead of
traditional medical care in terms of "safeness".
Chiropractic is
among the safest of the healing arts. As proof, one merely has to compare
malpractice rates between chiropractors and other health professionals.
Chiropractors' malpractice premiums are a small fraction of those for medical
doctors, especially orthopedists and surgeons.
Each patient is unique. Long-standing or neglected problems may require
ongoing care to restore and maintain good spinal health. The truth is you
wouldn’t expect just one of the twenty pills of any prescription to produce a
cure, so you shouldn’t expect only one adjustment to do that either. Healing
takes time.
While some patients seek chiropractic care only when pain is unbearable, this
“crisis” approach is often time-consuming, costly and uncomfortable. Most
patients find that the best results come from a regular individual care program
and periodic chiropractic checkups.
Discuss your expectations for care with your doctor and ask questions about
how you can achieve optimum spinal health. How long you
decide to benefit from chiropractic care is always up to you.
More and more people are consulting
chiropractic doctors, especially in their later years. With growing concerns
about over-medication and the side effects of combining various prescription
drugs, safe, natural chiropractic care is growing in popularity.
Restoring better spinal function can
help improve mobility, vitality, endurance, and appetite. Many patients report
improvement with arthritic symptoms and other chronic ailments often associated
with the aging process.
As we get older and wiser, the
simplicity and effectiveness of chiropractic care becomes more and more obvious.
All ages can enjoy healthier living
through chiropractic care. For seniors, improved spinal function can mean better
mobility, endurance, appetite, and an improvement in many age-related ailments.
Children and even infants also can benefit. Because spinal trauma can occur at
birth and later childhood activities also may cause spinal problems, most
parents prefer to have their children checked regularly.
When the body is changing through
growth or through aging, maintaining good spinal and nervous system health is
especially important.
Since significant spinal trauma can
occur at birth, many parents have their newborns checked for the Vertebral
Subluxation Complex.
Later, learning to walk, ride a
bicycle, and other childhood activities can cause spinal problems. While a
bandage and some comforting words can help a skinned knee, the unseen damage to
the child’s spine is the unique domain of a chiropractic doctor.
Many childhood health complaints
that are brushed off as “growing pains” can often be traced to the spine.
Regular chiropractic checkups can identify these problems and help avoid many of
the health complaints seen later in adults.
Naturally, chiropractic adjusting
procedures are modified to a child’s spine. Most parents repot that their
children enjoy their chiropractic adjustments and seem healthier than other
children.
Helping to restore proper spinal
biomechanics and improved nervous system function begins with a case history.
This gives the doctor a background about your health, such as surgeries,
accidents, the onset of your condition, and other details affecting your current
health.
After reviewing your history and
discussing your specific problem, a thorough orthopedic, neurological, and
chiropractic examination is performed. X-rays may be taken to uncover structural
and functional problems associated with the spinal column. These examinations
help identify areas of spinal malfunction and resulting nervous system deficit.
The findings of these examinations
are explained and a plan of chiropractic adjustments may be recommended.
Progress is monitored with periodic examinations and follow-up reports.
Since the word “doctor” comes
from the Latin word-meaning teacher, regardless of your doctor’s unique
clinical approach, he or she has a strong commitment to patient education.
Chiropractic education centers on the concept of patients’ health, not
disease. Doctors of chiropractic (D.C.s) are concerned with the patient’s
entire ecology — which may include occupational stress, rest, exercise and
nutrition.
Doctors of chiropractic go through
vigorous training (see exhibit a. chiropractic college curriculum vs. MD
curriculum), an internship, three National Board certification exams, and then
finally a State Board exam. In addition, the doctors of chiropractic complete a
minimum of 100 hours of post-graduate continuing education every year. This is
not a State requirement, but a way for the doctor to stay current with his
profession. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat a variety of
disorders. Most (but not all) are related to the spine. The main component of
Chiropractic treatment is spinal manipulative therapy.
Exhibit
A. - Comparisons of the Overall Curriculum Structure for Chiropractic and
Medical Schools
| |
Chiropractic Schools |
Medical
Schools |
| Avg
|
%
|
Avg
|
%
|
|
| Basic
Science Hours |
1416
|
29
|
1200
|
26
|
| Clinical
Science Hours |
3406
|
71
|
3467
|
74
|
| Total
Contact Hours |
4822
|
100
|
4667
|
100
|
| Subdivision
of Clinical Science Hours |
|
|
|
|
| Chiropractic
Science Hours |
1975
|
41
|
0
|
0
|
| Clerkship
Hours |
1431
|
30
|
3467
|
74
|
| Total
|
3406 |
71
|
3467
|
74
|
| (adapted
from Coulter 1, Adams A, et al, 1998)³ |
|
|
|
|
A chiropractic education never ends. Most doctors complete postgraduate instruction for license renewal and to stay current on the latest scientific research.
Chiropractors have Doctor of chiropractic (D.C.) degrees granted from
chiropractic colleges. Chiropractic education and medical education are similar
in some respects and different in others because chiropractors do not prescribe
drugs and medical doctors do not correct the vertebral subluxation complex.
That’s changing. Years of prejudice and bias are giving way to research
showing the benefits of chiropractic care. Attitudes are slow to change.
However, as the public demands alternatives to drugs and surgery, more and more
medical practitioners are referring their patients to our office.
Certainly, as Norman Cousins says:
"There are times when intervention in the form of medicine or surgery is
absolutely necessary but there is never a time when the nourishment one puts
into one’s body or one’s mind is not essential to health."
Chiropractors would add spinal care to Mr. Cousins’ observation.
Yes. Having your subluxations
corrected is important, no matter what other type of health care you are
receiving. Today many Doctors of Chiropractic and Medical Doctors are working
together in clinics and on joint research projects. MD's are quite likely to
have patients who are under chiropractic care; in fact many medical doctors see
a doctor of chiropractic themselves.
Kerkhoff Chiropractic specializes in advanced treatment techniques; namely, Gonstead Diversified. In addition, Kerkhoff Chiropractic utilizes physical therapy modalities such as interferential muscle stimulation, cold, massage and extension tractions. Click here to get more information on the Gonstead technique.
After an in-depth consultation in which the chiropractor will ask you about your chief health complaints, family history, dietary habits and other care you may have received, your job, and other questions designed to help determine the nature of your illness and the best way to go about treating the problem.
Next, a thorough examination is performed which may include x-rays and other diagnostic procedures. In addition, a careful spinal examination and analysis will be performed to detect any structural abnormalities which may be affecting or causing your condition.
Next the doctor will then
comprehensively explain his findings and recommended treatment program to you.
Recommendations will often include lifestyle factors that affect your overall
health, such as your diet, level of exercise, your rest, and recreational
habits.
You treatment may also include adjunctive therapies, depending on your state of health. The
effects of your treatment may be immediate or they may take time. Again, all is
dependent on your current overall state of well being.
Although chiropractic is used most
frequently to relieve low back pain, studies have found it to be effective for a
variety of conditions, such as migraine headaches, neck and shoulder pain,
carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia.
Chiropractic has helped
millions of people worldwide suffering from all types of problems and not just
back and neck ailments. Chiropractic works with the spinal column and it's
intimate relationship with the nervous system - the major controller of all
bodily functions. By optimizing spinal column structure and biomechanics,
irritation and stress are removed and health can once again be achieved.
You may be surprised to learn that research studies have provided scientific
evidence showing chiropractic care is not only effective in the treatment of
back and neck ailments, but can also provide effective relief with children
suffering from ear infections, women suffering from dysmenorrhea (painful
menses), and a number of other seemingly "non-spinal" conditions.
While it's not prudent to guarantee relief from such conditions or claim to
"treat" these conditions, chiropractic has successfully helped
millions of individuals with all sorts of health conditions by positively
affecting the nervous system.
Back to Top
You may have heard the notion that
once you go to a chiropractor you have to keep going back. Before we answer that
question, ask yourself how many times you have visited a dentist? Like most
people, you've probably gone dozens of times. Why? Quite simply, to prevent your
teeth from literally rotting out of your head.
Once we have eliminated your pain and rehabilitated the injured tissues we do
recommend that you maintain a schedule of periodic spinal checkups. Like your
dentist and like many of the medical experts are now recognizing, prevention is
the key to reducing recurrences of existing health conditions and minimizing new
injuries in the future.
So the answer is yes, we want you to keep coming back, but just periodically.
Periodic chiropractic care minimizes spinal and nerve stresses, reduces
recurrences of old injuries, prevents new injuries from developing, minimizes
degenerative processes, which enhances overall health and wellness.
Under normal circumstances,
adjustments don't hurt. The patient may experience a minor amount of discomfort
during the adjustment, which lasts only seconds.
Several
studies have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in relieving back
pain. More recent studies have shown chiropractic to be effective in treating
infantile colic and migraine headaches.
It is possible to get used to
feeling more balanced, less stressed and more energetic as a result of periodic
chiropractic care. You may become more sensitive to your body and know when
you’ve "lost" your adjustment.
You may have heard the notion that
once you go to a chiropractor you have to keep going back. Before we answer that
question, ask yourself how many times you have visited a dentist? Like most
people, you've probably gone dozens of times. Why? Quite simply, to prevent your
teeth from literally rotting out of your head.
Once we have eliminated your pain
and rehabilitated the injured tissues we do recommend that you maintain a
schedule of periodic spinal checkups. Like your dentist and like many of the
medical experts are now recognizing, prevention is the key to reducing
recurrences of existing health conditions and minimizing new injuries in the
future.
So the
answer is yes, we want you to keep coming back, but just periodically. Periodic
chiropractic care minimizes spinal and nerve stresses, reduces recurrences of
old injuries, prevents new injuries from developing, minimizes degenerative
processes, which enhances overall health and wellness.
Chiropractors provide effective treatment for all types of soft tissue
disorders and not just back and neck ailments. This includes conditions of the
joints of the extremities like the ankle, knee and shoulder.
What you may not be aware of is chiropractic's success in treating a number
of non-soft tissue conditions like dysmenorrhea (painful menses), ulcers,
migraine headaches, and ear infections in children. While we cannot claim to
cure these conditions, we believe that many of these problems can be mimicked,
aggravated and some times caused by disruptions in the nervous system as a
result of spinal abnormalities. By correcting these spinal abnormalities like
the vertebral subluxation, chiropractic has helped thousands of individuals
overcome these conditions and regain control of their lives.
A number of studies have also supported these findings. In one such study,
spinal manipulative therapy was compared with standard medical treatments in the
treatment of duodenal ulcers. The researchers Pikalov, MD, and Kharin, MD, found
those subjects receiving spinal manipulations took an average of 16 days to heal
vs. 26 days to heal in the standard medical treatment group.
While there is a certain degree of risk associated with any procedure or
treatment, chiropractic care is provided under the premise of "Above All
Else, Do No Harm." In fact, chiropractic treatments are among some of the
safest treatments used in the health care field for individuals of all ages -
from birth to those into their hundreds.
According to Practice Guidelines released by the US Department of Health and
Human Services, the risk of serious complications from spinal manipulation is
rare. These guidelines also state that conservative treatments such as spinal
manipulation should be pursued in most cases before considering surgical
intervention.
According to Pran
Manga, Ph.D., the lead researcher for some major studies commissioned by the
Ontario Ministry of Health, "Chiropractic manipulation is safer than
medical management of low back pain. Chiropractic management is greatly superior
to medical management in terms of scientific validity, safety,
cost-effectiveness and patient satisfaction."
No. Chiropractic deals with the
spinal column, nervous system, meninges and body structure. Massage therapists
deal with muscle tension, circulation and body fluid drainage.
Today chiropractors have privileges in many hospitals. Ideally, doctors of
chiropractic would go through every ward and check all patients’ spines; after
all, who needs healthy spines more than people facing life-threatening diseases?
The presence of DC's in hospitals is a welcome beginning—hopefully paving the
way toward making drugless, natural methods of chiropractic care available to
all hospital patients.
Yes.
It’s an unfortunate fact that up to half of those who had spinal surgery
discover a return of their original symptoms months or years later. They then
face the prospect of additional surgery. This too common occurrence is known as
"Failed Back Surgery Syndrome." Chiropractic may help prevent repeated
operations.
Rest assured that your chiropractic doctor will avoid the surgically modified
areas of your spine. Surgery often causes instability above or below the
involved level. These areas will be the focus of your chiropractic care.
In
a majority of cases the answer is "Yes."
After the break heals, yes. In fact,
a broken bone forms a callus or bone scar when it heals that is stronger than
the rest of the bone. This should dispel any concerns about the safety of an
adjustment. People who have had broken bones need chiropractic checkups because
accidents usually cause spinal subluxations.
Of course. When developing a care plan, your chiropractic doctor considers
the unique circumstances of each patient. There are many ways to adjust the
spine. The method selected will be best suited to your age, size and health.
Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others discover it can take
many weeks or months. Many factors can affect the healing process. How long have
you had your problem? Are you keeping your appointments? Are you getting the
proper rest, exercise and nutrition? Do you smoke? Are you in otherwise good
condition? Within a short period of time most patients sense enough progress to
fully complete their doctor’s recommendations.
No. Chiropractic doctors don’t dispense drugs. Because we rely on natural
methods, we can show you how to use ice to control painful symptoms. When
properly applied, ice can have an analgesic effect without the side effects of
pain medications.
Patient results vary. Many report improved spinal curves and the total
resumption of their life. Those who have neglected or delayed seeking care often
see slower progress. After improvement, many patients discover that periodic
chiropractic checkups can help avoid a relapse.
If we’re unable to find and correct the cause of your particular health
problem, we will refer to other specialists who may be able to help. Your health
is our only goal.
Of course. Once is better than
never. But chiropractic can help you in so many ways. Why not ask your
chiropractor about your personal spinal care needs.
Spine and nerve stress will continue to build up as before, but it won't be reduced or eliminated. If the stress is not relieved, your body and overall health will suffer.
Regular chiropractic check ups are
as important as regular dental check ups for wellness. You should have them even
if you "feel" well because they help prevent future problems and help
to maintain your good health. Kerkhoff Chiropractic's recommendations for your
care are the same as those they would make for members of their own families
under the same circumstances. We want you to remain well!
Accurately identifying the cause of
spinal pain or other discomfort almost always requires a thorough consultation
and examination. Individuals should not assume their pain stems from the same
problem, for example, their neighbor had, and thus what has helped their
neighbor will help them. Just as every individual is unique and different from
the next, so too are the health conditions they suffer and the treatments they
require.
Chiropractic doctors are highly trained in the diagnosis and treatment of soft
tissue injuries and abnormalities common to the spine, extremities and rest of
body. Rest assured that if you are suffering from back or neck problems,
extremity problems or other health related ailments chiropractic can provide you
with the effective professional relief you demand. If your condition is out of
the chiropractic scope or would be more appropriately managed by another health
care specialist, we will gladly and promptly make the necessary referral.
While treatment lengths vary
somewhat from person to person and from condition to condition, there are a few
rules of thumb you can follow.
The only sure way to determine how long your treatment will take is to schedule
a consultation and/or examination.
For those of you who believe in just waiting for the problem to "go
away" on it's own - understand that the longer your condition has been
around, the more treatments it will eventually require to resolve.
3rd stage of care = periodic
maintenance
Once the spinal tissues are healed and spinal biomechanics have normalized the
patient will be recommended to continue with periodic spinal checkups. For some
this might mean once per year, for others this may mean once per month or more.
Chiropractic spinal checkups provide similar benefits to the spine that dental
checkups provide to the teeth. Namely, catching minor problems and disturbances
before they have the opportunity to cause pain, discomfort and irreversible
tissue changes. Just like with cavities and heart attacks, irreversible tissue
damage has generally occurred before the symptoms of spinal pain and discomfort
become apparent.
Chiropractic has provided effective
relief to millions of individuals suffering from back and neck ailments.
Chiropractic has also provided relief from many other musculoskeletal complaints
ranging from knee and ankle problems to carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow.
In fact, musculoskeletal pain or discomfort in any area of the spine or
extremity is a candidate for safe, natural, noninvasive chiropractic care. If a
condition exists which is better suited for treatment by a medical specialist,
chiropractors are fully trained to identify such conditions and make the
appropriate referral. However, most patients suffering from musculoskeletal
complaints can and are successfully treated with chiropractic every single day.
Common musculoskeletal conditions treated:
low back pain and stiffness
neck and upper back pain and stiffness
mid back pain and stiffness
headaches and migraines
leg pain, weakness, numbness and tingling
arm pain, weakness, numbness and tingling
extremity joint pain and dysfunction
carpal tunnel syndrome
Chiropractors commonly treat all
types of injuries and recognize the unique findings associated with each. For
example, it's important to understand that auto injuries often involve a delayed
onset of symptoms which commonly surface weeks and even months post-accident. In
work injuries, chiropractors routinely look beyond the actual injury and address
such things as workstation setup, ergonomically correct equipment, and proper
work techniques. For sports injuries, chiropractors often check for
biomechanical and muscle imbalances as a routine part of the treatment plan.
Treating the whole person and optimizing health is what chiropractic is all
about.
Common injuries treated:
automobile accident and whiplash injuries
on-the-job and lifting injuries
sports/athletic injuries
slip and fall injuries
chronic injuries
Discs are the cartilage-like
cushions occupying the spaces between spinal bones. Serving as spinal shock
absorbers, they allow the back to turn and bend normally. Because each disc is
attached to the vertebrae both above and below, there is no way for them to
actually “slip” out of place. But trauma or injury to the spine can cause
discs to tear, bulge, herniated or even rupture. The resulting pressure on
surrounding nerve tissues can be intensely painful.
Each case is different so results
cannot be guaranteed, however many patients have found relief in chiropractic
care and are happy to avoid surgery or dependency on pain medication.
Pain is usually the reason most
patients consult with a Doctor of Chiropractic. Most patients have heard the
term “pinched nerve” and, some may even know that it’s associated with
pain, numbness, burning, or a “pins and needles” feeling. In truth, the
compression lesion or pinched nerve is rare, causing only 10 to 15% of
spine-related problems.
More often, pain comes from nerve
tissues irritated by the rubbing, stretching or scraping of malfunctioning
spinal joints. Such malfunctions can be caused by many everyday events including
physical trauma or emotional stress. Chemical toxins can also affect the
delicate tissues or the spinal cord and nerve roots.
Your doctor can determine the cause
of your pain and the extent of your problem.
If you are a chiropractic patient,
you have likely heard the word subluxation mentioned. The subluxation is an
important element of chiropractic theory and practice. But what does it mean?
Actually, the definition of the word has evolved as it has received attention
and investigation by the chiropractic profession, and it differs from the
medical definition of the term. A consensus by chiropractic colleges, having
status with accrediting agencies recognized by the US Department of Education,
leads to the following definition:
“A subluxation is a complex of
functional and/or structural and/or pathological articular changes that
compromise neural integrity and may influence organ system function and general
health.”
What the above means is that a
subluxation is a joint problem (whether a problem with the way the joint is
functioning, a physical problem with the joint, a disease of the joint, or a
combination of any of these) that affects the function of nerves and can
therefore affect the body’s organs and general health.
Your spine is a column of bones
(vertebrae), cushioned by spinal discs, that are moved and supported by muscles,
tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Built into these bones are openings top to
bottom and through each side. Through these openings pass most of the body’s
nerves from the brain. These nerves pass out from the spine on each side to all
of the body’s tissues and organs. The subluxation theory identifies that a
problem in the joints of the spines is able to affect the nerves that exit that
point in the spine, thereby affecting the tissue or organ to which that nerve
goes. Chiropractors believe that if joints function properly, nerves will
function properly, and the body will be better able to keep itself healthy.
There are three basic causes of subluxations. Physical causes could include
slips and falls, accidents, repetitive motions and improper lifting. Emotions,
such as grief, anger and fear can cause subluxations. Chemical causes could
include alcohol, drugs, pollution and poor diet.
You can have subluxations and not even know it. Like the early stages of
tooth decay or cancer, subluxations can be present before warning signs appear.
The results of a thorough examination can show the location and severity of
subluxations you may have.
A subluxation is usually suspected and located through palpation by the
Doctor of Chiropractic. This process involves very skilled, hands-on evaluation
of the spinal and other joints. During this examination, the chiropractor is
looking for any abnormalities in the joints (either too much or too little
movement), unusual movement patterns, movement that causes pain, and other clues
that indicate a joint problem. Unless there is an observable change in the
spinal alignment, abnormal movement that may be associated with a subluxation
may not be detected by diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs, etc.) If you have been
in an accident or have sustained some other traumatic injury, diagnostic imaging
may be needed.
Sometimes. Today’s hectic lifestyles are a constant source of subluxations.
Fortunately, our bodies have the ability to self-correct many of these problems
as we bend and stretch, or when we sleep at night. But, you don't know when
subluxations resolve, that determination will be made when you see a
chiropractic doctor!
Not always. A subluxation is like a
dental cavity—you may have it for a long time before symptoms appear. That’s
why periodic spinal checkups are so important. Although it may be possible to
know you have a subluxation, it is rarely possible to be sure you don’t. An
occasional spinal checkup is always a good idea.
Chiropractic
treatment of a subluxation involves an adjustment. There are many techniques for adjusting, all of which are precise
and designed with a specific purpose. Adjustments are usually performed
manually, though techniques that involve a hand-held instrument may also be
used.
Adjustments should never be
performed by an unqualified person. In some instances, adjustments are NOT the
recommended method of treatment, and only a thorough examination by a
professional who is skilled in palpation, adjusting, and physical diagnosis
should lead to that conclusion.
When performing an adjustment your
doctor applies precisely directed force to a joint that is “locked up” or
not moving properly. Restoring normal motion to joints can allow bones to
gradually return to a more proper position and your body to function as it
should. This safe, natural approach to removing interferences with spinal and
nervous system function can improve your overall health.
This is not to say, however, that
all adjustments are the same. Just as chiropractors are different individually,
so are the many techniques. Usually the doctor’s hands or a specially designed
instrument deliver a quick, therapeutic thrust to the affected joint. Other
techniques however may require slow, constant pressure.
Based upon years of training and
experience, and careful evaluation of your unique spinal problem, the doctor
will recommend an individual program of care.
After years of
training and clinical experience, each chiropractic doctor becomes highly
skilled in the delivery of a variety of adjusting approaches.
Adjusting helps correct vertebral
subluxations. Correcting subluxations reduces pain and inflammation, reduces
muscle spasm and tension, normalizes spinal biomechanics and more importantly,
can remove nerve irritation and interference, which can improve overall health
and wellness of the individual. Chiropractic adjustments are the only way to
eliminate vertebral subluxations and only the chiropractor is trained to detect
subluxations and deliver the chiropractic spinal adjustment to correct
subluxations.
To illustrate this principle,
imagine a garden hose as a nerve and the water flowing through the hose as nerve
impulses. When the hose is laid out straight without any kinks, water flows
freely. If on the other hand the hose gets compressed or kinked, water flow is
reduced or even stops. If this condition persists, eventually, the hose becomes
damaged.
Like removing the kink from a hose,
a spinal adjustment can ease pressure on a nerve, allowing nerve impulses to
flow and protect the nerve from further damage.
Cavitation, a pop or a click sound,
is often heard or felt by the patient during the adjustment. Much like the
opening of a carbonated soda can, cavitation is caused by a rapid release of air
bubbles that have been under pressure within the joint. Cavitation occurs more
often than not during an adjustment, but it does not have to occur for the
adjustment to be effective.
Yes. A New Zealand government study found that adjustments are
"remarkably safe." By avoiding drugs and risky surgery, chiropractic
care enjoys an excellent track record. A thorough exam can identify the rare
person for whom chiropractic care might be unsuited. Compare the statistics.
Adjustments are safer than taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Spinal adjustments are applied to
certain vertebrae of the spine which are no longer in their proper position or
where functioning has become impaired. Vertebrae, which lose their normal
position or proper motion, are commonly termed vertebral subluxations. The
chiropractor uses a number of unique tests and procedures to determine which, if
any, vertebrae are subluxated. If subluxations are found, immediate correction
is generally indicated. Since like cavities subluxations are not always painful
during the initial stages, even those who are not experiencing back or neck
discomfort should receive periodic spinal checkups.
The answer is "As soon as you
develop subluxations." But since subluxations are often painless,
it’s good to get your spine checked periodically, as you get your teeth
checked periodically for "painless" cavities.
No. Only the spinal joints that are "locked up" receive
adjustments. This allows weakened muscles and ligaments to stabilize and heal.
Highly unlikely. A chiropractic adjustment is special. It has the right
amount of energy, delivered to an exact spot, at a precise angle, at just the
right time. The intent is to get a "stuck" spinal joint moving again,
helping reduce nerve interference. Years of training, practice and experience
make chiropractic adjustments specific and safe.
Lubricating fluids separate the bones of each spinal joint. Some adjusting
methods can produce a sound when the gas and fluids in the joint shift. It’s
much like opening a bottle of champagne or removing a suction cup. The sound is
interesting, but isn’t a guide to the quality or value of the adjustment.
Actually, not all adjusting techniques produce the
sound associated with "popping knuckles." Some create no sound at all,
some a little. Many techniques, however, do create the sound of a spinal
"release." What causes it? The mystery may have been solved by a
British research team that took x-ray movies of people popping" their
knuckles. The sound appeared to be caused by gas rushing in to fill the partial
vacuum created when the joints were slightly separated.
No. Each patient’s spine and care plan is unique. With 24 moving bones in the
spine (that can each move in seven different directions!) we see a wide variety
of spinal patterns. Each patient’s care is custom tailored for their age,
condition and health goals.
The doctor evaluates each patient’s unique spinal problem and develops an
individual course of care. The resulting recommendations are based on years of
training and experience.
Some patients who complain of headaches, may actually have a lower back
problem that is causing a compensation reaction at the base of the skull. Other
patients may be experiencing numbness and tingling in their fingers, when the
actual problem is in the neck.
Every patient presents a uniquely different spinal pattern.
Patients notice that their chiropractic care is delivered with confidence and
precision. Each visit builds on the one before. And while visits may seem
similar, each patient’s care is uniquely different from every other patient.
No. It is virtually impossible to adjust oneself, since a chiropractic adjustment is a specific force, applied in a specific direction.
It is possible to turn or bend or twist in certain ways to create a
“popping” sound, like the sound that sometimes accompanies a chiropractic
adjustment. Unfortunately, this type of joint manipulation is usually
counterproductive, often making an already unstable area of the spine even more
unsteady. Adjusting the spine is not for amateurs!
The best way to enjoy the healthful benefits of chiropractic is to receive
adjustments from a Doctor of Chiropractic. Even your doctor must consult with
another colleague to help restore and maintain proper spinal
function.
The number of adjustments varies with each patient and their individual
health goals. Many patients sense progress within a week or two of frequent
visits. Visits become less often as your spine stabilizes. In chronic cases,
complete healing can take months or even years.
Yes. There are verified instances of
blind people recovering eyesight after a fall, of individuals able to walk again
after their wheelchair was thrown and of amnesiacs who remember their past after
receiving a trauma—these are examples of "accidental adjustments." A
visit to the chiropractor is a lot safer.
Also, many types of therapy, including massage and various body work, can reduce musculoskeletal stress, sometimes permitting the spine to automatically realign, as will a cathartic emotional release.
Even today’s "natural" childbirth methods can affect an
infant’s spine. Preliminary studies suggested that colic, unusual crying, poor
appetite, ear infections or erratic sleeping habits can be signs of spinal
distress. Pediatric adjustments are gentle. Knowing exactly where to adjust, the
doctor applies no more pressure than you’d use to test the ripeness of a
tomato.
"What
you can expect from your adjustment is a feeling of peace and relaxation that
can last from a day to a week. Patients often comment that they experience a
better night's sleep and increased energy. It's common to hear that they went
home and tackled that project they've been putting off for months."
"Some
patients report that their symptoms start to go away after the first adjustment,
while others don't feel any immediate difference. If you don't feel a change,
don't be discouraged. Often you are not aware of internal improvements."
"Some
patients may feel discomfort after their first adjustment, ranging from a
headache to just general fatigue. In almost every case, this feeling goes away
within the next couple adjustments."
"This
discomfort is often due to a detoxification of the body after adjustments. As
poisons leave the system, they could create a headache or slight head cold, even
a slight fever and a feeling of lethargy."
These symptoms of detoxification
generally last no more than a day or two, and then you should see steady
improvement.
The doctor will inform you if you
need to ice or apply heat to certain areas.
"As soon as you develop
subluxations" is the right answer. But, because you don't know when this
occurs, it's good to get your spine checked periodically, just as you get your
teeth checked for "painless" cavities on a regular basis!
The desire to pop the neck or back is caused by tension from a jammed or fixated vertebra, which causes another part of the spine to compensate by moving too much and "popping" a lot. The jammed part should be adjusted by a chiropractor so that the rest of the spinal column will balance and stop being so movable and noisy.
The body’s natural healing ability can’t be hurried. However, there are
several things you can do to give yourself the best chance for a speedy
recovery. Your doctor will teach you proper sitting and lifting postures.
Specific exercises to strengthen and retrain the muscles supporting your spine
also may be recommended.
While you are healing, get as much rest as your body needs, but avoid
sleeping on your stomach. Eat healthy balanced diet. If you are overweight, this
is the best time to reduce stress to your spine by taking off extra pounds.
Perhaps, most important of all, keep
your appointments and follow your chiropractic doctor’s recommendations for
optimum results.
Absolutely. Pregnant women may find that chiropractic care helps the spine
compensate for the extra weight by making it more resilient.
Roughly 85% of headaches are neck-related, resulting from not having the
proper curve in the neck (commonly caused by sitting and holding our neck too
high or low, or through injuries). Chiropractic care helps remove subluxations
and restore the neck's natural curve - a much more natural way to relieve
headaches than taking medications!
Our office hours are extremely
flexible for your convenience. They are part of our overall commitment to
quality.
The office is open Monday through
Wednesday from 9AM to 6PM, and Friday from 9AM to 6PM and on Saturday’s by
appointment. We try to accommodate true emergencies at any time, but we do request
you schedule an appointment in advance. In this way, we can continue to provide
the highest quality of service to you, our patient. We appreciate 24 hours
advance notice of cancellations and request that you be on time for you
scheduled appointment.
We understand our
obligations to our patients as consumers, and therefore, our fees are set. You
may discuss fees at any time with Dr. Kerkhoff or the office manager.
Our qualified staff
has made every effort to help keep down the cost of your wellness care. We have
several easy payment options available to you. Please inquire at the front desk.
We also accept MasterCard, Visa and Discover Card for your convenience.
In this ever-changing world, health
insurance has become more and more complex. Our staff is trained to make every
effort to assure that you receive the maximum benefits that you are entitled to
from your plan.
Our office will be happy to verify your coverage and help you fill out your forms. In most cases, we will submit your forms for you. Most insurance plans have a deductible and co-payment for which the patient is responsible. Again, this depends on your policy and its provisions.
Check
out the insurance plan page to see if your plan is listed.
We welcome new patients always! A referral is the finest compliment a patient can make to our office. Tell someone who may benefit from our special wellness care about this website and Kerkhoff Chiropractic.
Click here for a gift certificate for a fee complete exam and consultation with Dr. Paul Kerkhoff.
The office is conveniently located on Highway 6 in Waukee, in the Waukee Professional Plaza next to Waukee City Hall. There is plenty of parking, most often within a few steps of our door as a service to our patients.
Click
here for more detailed directions and a map
Your health affects everything you do and everyone you know. It is your most
valuable possession. Yet, each of us is free to place a different value on our
health. It’s convenient when an insurance company or third party helps pay the
bill. But be careful! Don’t allow the profit motive of a huge corporation to
make the decision for you. Find out how we make chiropractic care affordable for
just about anyone.
Costs vary and generally depend on
the number of treatments required to effectively treat your condition. A number
of studies have shown that chiropractic care is extremely cost effective when
compared to other "medical" forms of care for similar conditions.
According to the 1993 Manga Report,
"There would be highly significant cost savings if more management of
low-back pain was transferred from physicians to chiropractors. Users of
chiropractic care have substantially lower health care costs, especially
inpatient costs, than those who use medical care only."
Note: We also offer different treatment plans and payment options, placing
chiropractic care within reach for all who wish to receive its benefits.