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Who are chiropractors?

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who tend to a patient's neuromusculoskeletal system, which involves the muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. They are spine care specialists who cure issues like neck and back pain. Their primary aim is to help the patient self-heal and improve their overall spine and muscle functionality through treatments like exercise, posture improvement, and ergonomics.

A chiropractor aligns the vertebrae through gentle hand movements to the spine, relieving the pressure on the nerve and allowing 100% of the nerve energy to reach the tissues it serves. Chiropractic is the right fit if you are looking for drug-free alternative healthcare treatment for your chronic back pain and cervical spine manipulation.

Why should one see a chiropractor?

Patients with long-term back pain, neck pain, tendon inflammation, or muscle-related issues should connect with a chiropractor who can help correct spine and neuromuscular disorders. Therefore, once patients identify any sustained body pain relating to joints and muscles, they should immediately contact the nearest chiropractor for early pain relief and smooth functioning. In the interest of whole-body wellness, many chiropractors offer a range of options to help relieve back pain by applying spinal manipulation and advising on diet, lifestyle, and exercise. 

Why should one choose chiropractors?

Chiropractic technique is a practical and comprehensive presentation of the fundamental and advanced skills necessary to evaluate joint functioning using thrust and non-thrust methods.

It is the largest non-surgical, non-drug prescribing primary contact health profession. Various studies show that a course of chiropractic care is far safer than a course of anti-inflammatory drugs when it comes to neck and back pain treatment. 

The term 'chiropractic adjustment' refers to spinal manipulation wherein a gentle force is applied to release a vertebral segment from its abnormal motion or position, thereby reducing vertebral subluxation or spinal misalignment. More than 20 adjusting systems are utilized in chiropractic today, and each has a specific adjusting technique to restore the spine to its normal function. They reduce negative neurologic impact and return the body to more normal efficiency. Regardless of which system they utilize, chiropractors tailor spinal adjustments to their patient's ages and spinal conditions. 

A chiropractor does a quick examination of the spine position and muscle reflexes. To better understand the condition they are dealing with, they usually suggest a routine blood examination and an X-ray of the pain area. After the reports and diagnosis, they develop a therapy where they use their hands and basic muscle-release instruments, putting pressure on the joint in specific directions for better alignment and smooth functioning.

Education and training of chiropractors

Chiropractors in the United States must hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree, pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners exam, and achieve a state license. Additional state-specific law exams regarding practice may be necessary, and continuing education is mandatory for practicing chiropractors. Enrolling in a DC program, typically a 4-year course, requires at least three years of prior undergraduate education.

The Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE) accredits institutions that offer Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degrees. The U.S. Secretary of Education recognizes this accreditation. As of 2017, there were 15 accredited DC programs spanning 18 campuses. Chiropractic education covers fundamental sciences, anatomy, physiology, and supervised clinical practice. Some chiropractors pursue postgraduate studies in areas like orthopedics or pediatrics.

Which treatments does a chiropractor provide?

Chiropractic care includes a range of techniques aimed at treating different musculoskeletal problems and improving overall health. These techniques are customized to fit each person's specific needs, some of which include:

1. Spinal adjustment: Also called spinal manipulation, this procedure involves the application of controlled force by hand to a spinal joint, helping restore its proper function.
2. Mobilization: Mobilization through gentle joint movements enhances the joint's range of motion, promoting flexibility and reducing discomfort.
3. Therapeutic exercises: These include specific exercises prescribed to aid recovery, strengthen muscles, and improve mobility.
4. Reassurance: It involves providing guidance and education to alleviate concerns and encourage a positive outlook on the healing process which is also crucial for patients.
5. Heat or cold therapy: This involves the application of heat or ice to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and facilitate healing.
6. Stretching: Customized stretching routines can improve flexibility and prevent muscle tension.
7. Soft tissue techniques: These include massage and manual therapies to relax muscles and promote circulation.
8. Activity modification: Suggestions for adjusting daily activities can help minimize discomfort and support recovery.
9. Lifestyle guidance: This can involve recommendations for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including dietary habits and physical activity.
10. Physiological therapeutics: These include using modalities like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), ultrasound, or laser therapy for pain relief and tissue healing. 
11. Orthotics: These are customized shoe inserts to improve posture, enhance foot support, and alleviate pain.
12. Drop piece table technique: This is a specialized table aiding controlled joint mobilization.
13. Joint treatment: Beyond the spine, chiropractors can address discomfort in various joints, including feet, ankles, shoulders, wrists, and elbows, by using relevant techniques. 

What should one expect during the first visit to a chiropractor?

As you prepare for your first visit to a chiropractor near you, it is natural to feel a mix of curiosity and perhaps a touch of apprehension. Rest assured, this journey is about addressing your specific needs and setting the stage for improved well-being. By working closely with the chiropractor and following their advice, you can take the required steps towards better health and well-being.

Here is a breakdown of what typically occurs during the appointment:  

• Review of your information: When you arrive at the chiropractor's office, they will carefully review all the information provided by your referring doctor. It includes a detailed look at your medical history, any test results, and treatments you've had before. This thorough examination helps the chiropractor get a clear understanding of your condition before starting any treatment.
• Discussion of symptoms: During your visit, the chiropractor will talk with you about your symptoms to understand what you are experiencing and how severe it is. They will also ask about any specific areas where you feel discomfort. This conversation is crucial for them to create a suitable treatment plan.
• Diagnostic considerations: If further clarity is needed, the chiropractor may recommend additional diagnostic tests such as MRI scans and CT scans to uncover any underlying issues. 
• Personalized treatment plan: Once the chiropractor has a good understanding of your condition, they will create a customized treatment plan just for you. As part of this plan, they might do chiropractic adjustments. For these, you will lie down on a special table to help them target and manipulate specific areas that need attention.
• Post-treatment management: After the adjustment, you might feel a bit sore in the areas that were treated, but this usually goes away within a day. The chiropractor might recommend some exercises and stretches to help you recover faster. They might also give you tips on how to sit or move correctly to prevent future issues and suggest ways to manage stress better.
• Wellness recommendations: Beyond immediate treatment, the chiropractor may provide suggestions for maintaining overall wellness. It could include advice on posture, stress management strategies, and the use of heat/cold therapy or topical treatments for additional relief.

When should you not seek chiropractic treatment?

While chiropractic treatment is safe when a trained and licensed chiropractor performs it, serious complications can occur in rare cases. These complications include:

• Herniated disk
• Worsening of an existing disk herniation
• Compression (pinching) of lower spinal nerves
• A certain type of stroke that results from neck manipulation

To avoid these, do not seek chiropractic adjustment if you have any of the following:

• Spinal cancer
• High risk of stroke
• Severe osteoporosis
• A bone abnormality in the upper neck
• Tingling, loss of strength, or numbness in an arm or leg

Can pregnant women benefit from chiropractic treatment?

You experience several hormonal and physical changes during pregnancy, some of which will impact your comfort and posture. As your baby becomes heavier, your center of gravity will shift, and your posture will adjust accordingly. These physical changes can lead to:

• Misaligned spine or joints
• A protruding abdomen that causes an increased curve of your back
• Pelvic changes as your body starts to get ready for labor

Regular chiropractic care during pregnancy can benefit you in the following ways:

• Help control symptoms of nausea
• Relieve neck, back, and hip pain
• Reduce the time you spend in labor

Make sure you consult your OB-GYN before you seek chiropractic treatment to ensure it will not cause any complications. Avoid seeing a chiropractor, especially if you experience the following:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Moderate to severe toxemia
• Placenta previa or abruption

How to find the best chiropractor near you in Marietta, GA?

If you are dealing with neck pain, backaches, muscle tension, shoulder stiffness, headaches, or spine-related issues, consider seeing a chiropractor as soon as possible. Choosing the right chiropractor is important, especially with today's sedentary lifestyles. A knowledgeable healthcare professional can help you understand your body better and provide effective care.

While finding a skilled and experienced chiropractor is essential, it can prove challenging. Zocdoc provides a complete database of the best chiropractors in Marietta, Georgia. You can initiate your search by entering your preferred location, specialty, and your insurance plan to receive a list of providers matching your criteria.

Each listed specialist has a personal profile with relevant details, including their qualifications, accreditations, affiliations, awards, areas of expertise, experience, and licensure. You can also refine these results based on their gender, languages they speak, and whether or not they treat children. Furthermore, you may browse through verified ratings and reviews from previous patients. 

You can use the Zocdoc’s insurance detector if you need clarification about your policy's coverage. You can also submit your insurance details pre-appointment using the insurance card-capture feature. Once you have selected the best chiropractor near you, you can instantly book an in-person or virtual consultation based on their availability. When booking an appointment on Zocdoc, the website prompts you to share details about your insurance or to acknowledge that you are paying out-of-pocket. Some healthcare providers need you to provide insurance information in order to schedule appointments with them. If you do not have insurance or do not want to use insurance for your appointment, you can always find another provider on Zocdoc. For more insurance-related queries, check Zocdoc's patient help center.

All bookings with Zocdoc are easy, safe, and free!

Chiropractic statistics in Georgia and the U.S.

According to the American Chiropractic Association, chiropractors treat over 35 million Americans annually. They are designated physicians in most states and federal Medicare programs and have acquired national accreditation by undertaking a four-year doctoral graduate program. A 2017 report in the Journal of the American Medical Association recommended spinal manipulative therapy as an initial treatment for acute lower back pain. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021, there were about 35,810 active chiropractors in the U.S. Georgia had nearly 1,610 of these chiropractors, making it the fifth-highest state in terms of chiropractor numbers.

A quantitative study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that 8.3% of the deaths of non-disabled adults aged over 25 were due to physical inactivity. Reducing sedentary behavior and being physically active can benefit health. 

As per a survey conducted by America's Health Rankings in 2022, 23.8% of Georgian adults reported doing no physical activity or exercise apart from their regular jobs. It also showed that physical inactivity was more prevalent among women (≈27.3%) than men (≈20.0%). Among Georgia residents aged 65 and older, approximately 34.1% were considered physically inactive, while the younger age group of 18 to 44-year-olds had an inactivity rate of around 18.8%.

Sources

SPINE-health

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

American Chiropractic Association

America's Health Rankings[1]

America’s Health Rankings[2]

America’s Health Rankings[3]

Better Health Channel

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Cleveland Clinic

Mayo Clinic

Healthline

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.