Who is a chiropractor?
Chiropractors are medical practitioners who use adjustments and other manual procedures to identify, treat, and prevent spine, neck, and joint diseases. They do not write medication prescriptions but emphasize how the body may repair itself to avoid pain and enhance general well-being.
They can treat headaches, neck pain and back pain. Most chiropractors employ complementary treatments like stretches, adjustments, joint bracing, and soft tissue therapy. They aim to establish ideal postures for sleeping, sitting, and standing.
Education and training of a chiropractor
To become a chiropractor, students must complete an undergraduate degree in a science field, such as biology or kinesiology. They must obtain a three-year Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree and complete a year-long internship with a licensed chiropractor to improve their training. They can also pursue residency for 2-3 years. Then, chiropractors must pass the necessary exams to obtain their license and board certification.
How are chiropractors different from physiatrists?
Chiropractors with a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree emphasize manual spinal manipulation for joint mobility and pain relief. Physiatrists are medical doctors with four additional years of training, have a broader scope, addressing disabilities, chronic pain, and musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. They employ a multidisciplinary approach, using physical therapy, medications, and rehabilitation techniques. While both avoid surgery, chiropractors focus more on the spine, while physiatrists address a wider range of musculoskeletal and neurological issues throughout the body.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a treatment method in which a chiropractor applies sudden force to the spinal joint with their hands or a small device. Another name for this drug-free treatment is spinal manipulation. The purpose of chiropractic adjustments varies depending on the reason for the treatment. Still, it usually reduces pain, increases the range of spinal motion, and improves nervous system function, muscular-skeletal, and general health.
Chiropractic adjustments offer a wide range of favorable outcomes without the stress of surgery or other more intensive treatments. When you visit a chiropractor near you, they will review your medical history and do a physical assessment on the first visit. The diagnostic tests may include the following:
- X-rays: A chiropractor uses X-rays to create detailed images of internal body structure.
- CT scan: A chiropractor visualizes internal structures using small amounts of electromagnetic radiation.
- MRI scan: A chiropractor generates body images with strong magnetic fields and radio waves.
During regular chiropractic adjustments, a chiropractor will place patients in specific positions to treat affected regions. Most likely, the work will be facedown on a padded chiropractic table. The chiropractor then applies a controlled, immediate force upon a joint, pushing it beyond its normal range of motion with their hands. As the chiropractor adjusts patients' joints throughout the treatment session, they might hear popping or cracking sounds.
A chiropractor determines the frequency of a patient's chiropractic adjustments, the reason for treatment, and their response to it. Chiropractic adjustment is safe and secure when conducted by a certified and trained practitioner. However, some typical adverse effects of chiropractic adjustments may include the following:
- Stiffness
- Herniated disk
- Headaches
- Temporary increase in discomfort
- Brief muscle soreness
- Fatigue
- Stroke after neck manipulation
- Nerve compression in the lower spine
While chiropractors adopt a holistic approach to health and provide valuable guidance on lifestyle factors such as exercise, diet, and nutrition, there are certain situations where seeking chiropractic adjustments might not be advisable. You should exercise caution and refrain from consulting a chiropractor if experiencing conditions like:
- Osteoporosis
- Broken bones
- Bone tumors or cancers
- Infections
- Severe arthritis
For individuals experiencing symptoms such as numbness, loss of strength in the leg or arm, severe osteoporosis, a heightened risk of stroke, cancer in the spine, or abnormalities in the upper neck, it is advisable to refrain from seeking chiropractic adjustments. These cases require the expertise of specialists who can offer comprehensive care beyond the scope of chiropractic services. While chiropractors do not perform surgery, their services can complement traditional medical care. You must consult with qualified professionals, especially in specific medical conditions that may necessitate a more conventional medical approach.
What are some standard chiropractic adjustments?
Standard chiropractic adjustments include spinal manipulations to address misalignments, improve joint mobility, and alleviate pain. Learn about some of these techniques below:
- Diversified technique: The three main objectives of the diversified approach are to straighten the spine, provide mobility and optimal flexibility, and address joint dysfunction. Using precise hands-on thrusts, practitioners can expand a patient's range of motion and correct spinal alignment. Around 96% of chiropractors apply this treatment to 70% of their patients.
- Spinal manipulation: Spinal manipulation, also known as manual therapy or spinal mobilization, is a chiropractic technique for relieving joint stress, improving nerve function, and reducing inflammation. Although a "manual therapeutic strategy," spinal mobilization frequently uses gentler pushing and more intense stretching.
- The Thompson drop-table technique uses a precisely made table with padded platforms and drop mechanisms that allow the patient to be only minimally "dropped" for the procedure. The chiropractor uses a quick push combined with the adjustment. Patients like the calming motion that resembles a faint vibration.
- Gonstead adjustment: The adjustment restores proper disc alignment and provides maximum mobility. The patient can sit or rest on their side to receive this therapy. The accuracy of the contact point created by the chiropractor's hand is one characteristic that sets this adjustment apart. This technique can effectively correct posture in the lower back or pelvis.
- Activator method: Chiropractors routinely stimulate the vertebral segments of the spine or the extremities with a small, portable "activator" device. By changing the tone of the nervous system, the spring-loaded device can treat various diseases, from migraines to lower back pain issues.
- Flexion distraction: The flexion-distraction technique gently and rhythmically flexes and distracts the spine using a particular table. This procedure successfully treats disc issues that result in symptoms, including leg and back discomfort. It is an excellent technique for people who have recently suffered injuries or are more sensitive than usual to other alterations because the operation is painless; some even consider it comfortable.
- Spinal decompression: Spinal decompression effectively treats lower back pain issues brought on by bulging, herniated, degenerative, and sliding discs. By gently stretching the spine on a specialized table, spinal decompression promotes a healthy flow of oxygen, water, and other vital fluids into the discs and throughout the spine.
What are the advantages of chiropractic adjustments?
Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore your health over time rather than relieve your symptoms. As a result, a chiropractor will inquire about your daily movements, like sitting, standing, sleeping, and walking habits. The following are the advantages of chiropractic adjustments:
- Gives relief from back pain: Chiropractic adjustments can provide short-term or moderate relief from back pain.
- Aligns joints: Some chiropractic adjustments may reduce friction between your bones and help align your joints.
- Relieves neck pain: It can realign your spine and reduce tension in your neck muscles.
- Reduces the need for opioid painkillers: Chiropractic treatment may reduce your need for opioid pain medicines for chronic pain.
- Relieves headache symptoms: It may help ease persistent tension headaches.
- Reduces scoliosis symptoms: It may help patients improve their Cobb angle.
- Helps to correct posture: Chiropractic treatment may help correct posture, mainly caused by too much sitting.
- Helps athletes perform better: It can help treat painful injuries. Adjusting your spine could help you achieve better in sports.
- Cures whiplash injury: A motor vehicle collision can cause whiplash, which is a common neck injury. Chiropractic adjustments or any instructions directed by your chiropractor may aid your recovery. Whiplash typically heals in a month for most people.
Learning to position your body while standing, moving, and in bed and including stretch exercises in your daily routine can easily prevent future difficulties.
What is spinal manipulation, and is it safe?
Spinal manipulation is a treatment method in which providers use their hands or a device to administer controlled pressure to a joint in the spine. The pressure varies, but the push moves the joint more than it would otherwise.
Chiropractors primarily perform spinal manipulations (chiropractic treatment often involves spine manipulation); however, other qualified practitioners, such as osteopathic physicians and physical therapists, also use this technique. Some conditions for which spinal manipulation can be helpful include neck and lower back pain, headaches, and sciatica.
Spinal manipulation relieves pain and restores function in mechanical abnormalities of the spinal column. It is the most effective when combined with active treatments like stretching, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
An audible pop often follows spinal manipulation. It happens because a gas dissolves and is released from joint fluids after a sudden reduction in pressure. This gas rapidly forms tiny bubbles, producing a popping sound. However, hearing an audible pop is not necessarily required for spinal manipulation to be successful.
Spinal manipulation is usually safe and helpful, when performed appropriately, for certain types of newly developed neck and back pain and longer-term or recurring musculoskeletal conditions. Since preexisting health conditions can increase the risks of spinal manipulation or mobilization, practitioners usually thoroughly screen patients and ask them to disclose information about their health conditions and medications. In case a spinal manipulation or manual therapy is not proper for you, they would recommend you to a suitable medical specialist.
However, here are some associated risks and side effects of spinal manipulation or mobilization:
- Following spinal manipulation or mobilization, it is common to have temporary mild-to-moderate side effects like increased pain or discomfort, stiffness, or headaches. Most of these side effects subside within 24 hours.
- Severe side effects include major spinal or neurological issues, as well as strokes involving neck arteries. However, they are rare.
- People with underlying health conditions who are more prone to injury may be more likely to experience a significant adverse effect.
What to expect on the day of your chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment typically does not require any special preparation beforehand. Anticipate the following during your chiropractic adjustment:
- Before the adjustment: When visiting a chiropractor near you for the first time, expect a discussion about your health history. The chiropractor will then perform a detailed physical examination focusing on your spine. They may recommend additional diagnostic tests like X-rays.
- During the adjustment: In a standard chiropractic adjustment, you will be positioned on a specialized, padded table, often lying face down. Your chiropractor will use their hands to apply a controlled and sudden force to targeted joints, extending them beyond their typical range of motion. Hearing popping or cracking sounds is common as the provider manipulates joints during the session.
- After the adjustment: Following the procedure, some individuals may experience minor side effects for a few days. These can include headaches, fatigue, or temporary discomfort in the treated areas. It is important to note that these effects are generally transient and part of the body's adjustment process.
Things to remember when preparing for your first chiropractic appointment
Are you looking to maximize your time with your chiropractor during your first visit? Do you want the correct diagnosis and a proper treatment plan to help with your condition? Then you must spend enough time preparing for the appointment. Here is a complete checklist you can follow before you head to the chiropractor's office:
- Gather crucial documents: To complete the paperwork, you will need your photo ID, contact information, insurance card, doctor's referral letter, and medical records.
- Arrange for payment: Remember to carry a payment method accepted at the provider's office. You can also call the staff to confirm the visit's cost and whether they offer payment plans.
- Write down your symptoms: Many patients forget crucial details during the consultation, which impacts the diagnosis. You can ensure you do not land in such a situation by preparing answers to the most common questions. Here are some to start: When did you first notice your symptoms? What triggers them? What makes them better or worse? Have you tried any treatments? Additionally, be aware of your medical history, family history, lifestyle, and diet.
- Dress for comfort: The first session will include a physical exam and chiropractic adjustments. Wear an athletic outfit such as a loose-fitting T-shirt, sweatpants, sports bra, and sports shoes to ensure free movement.
- Record your questions: If you have any questions about the chiropractor's training, the benefits and risks of chiropractic care, expected outcomes, the number of follow-ups, or anything else, feel free to bring them up during the consultation. Having an open dialogue with your chiropractor can go a long way toward receiving the care you need.
Finding the best chiropractor near you in San Antonio
Do you frequently experience health problems like back pain, stress, or headaches? Do you have a dull, aching pain in the front or back of your neck? Painkillers can be effective for some time but will not solve your condition. Even surgical procedures can be costly and risky. It is critical to consult a chiropractor regarding any discomfort you're experiencing, whether it is recent or long-term.
You can quickly and securely improve your various aspects of health with chiropractic adjustments. Your chiropractor can rule out any significant issues that require treatment with chiropractic adjustments. Therefore, Zocdoc helps you find the best chiropractor to suit your needs. Enter your condition, procedure or doctor name, area, and insurance carrier plan. Zocdoc will show you a list of verified chiropractors to schedule an appointment.
If you cannot find your particular health plan in the drop-down on the search bar, do not panic! You can use the Zocdoc insurance detector feature to find it. Follow these steps: Upload a hi-res photo of your insurance card in the settings > Wait for Zocdoc to scan it > Receive details of your likely plan > Use them to resume your search for in-network chiropractors. Also, you can contact our service team if you encounter problems when uploading the photo. For more insurance FAQs, check out our patient help center.
You can browse the chiropractors' profiles to check recent patient reviews before booking an appointment. You can also learn about a chiropractor by checking the practice location, common visit reasons, education, and board certifications.
You have to create an account and take advantage of pre-appointment services like:
- Updating your medical information
- Receiving appointment reminders
- Pre-filling check-in forms
- Uploading a photo of your insurance card for a streamlined appointment experience
All appointments on Zocdoc are free and secure, allowing the patients to schedule meetings confidently in real time.
Statistics on arthritis in San Antonio, Texas
As of 2024, there are approximately 7,063 actively licensed chiropractors in Texas, according to the Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners. According to America's Health Rankings, approximately 22.2% of Texans reportedly have arthritis. In women, this ratio was 7.6% women in the age group of 18-44. The data also highlights that nearly 35.5% of adults in Texas reportedly have a body mass index of 30 or more. Obesity is also a significant cause of spinal and bone-related ailments. There has been a moderate increase in the utilization of chiropractic therapy among adults.
According to Texas Pain Professionals, at some point, nearly 84% of adults will experience low back pain. In addition, around 44% and 78% of persons who have had a previous episode of low back pain will experience it again. About 12% of the population suffers from chronic lower back pain symptoms. Approximately 10% of people with persistent neck discomfort cannot continue working. According to studies, between percent and 50% of persons with neck pain seek expert aid to alleviate their severe symptoms and suffering.
According to one report that excludes self-employed chiropractors, there are 2520 chiropractors in Texas out of 35810 in the United States. More than 80,000 chiropractors are state-licensed and nationally qualified. Nearly 5,380 licensed DCs practice in Texas, and almost 592 DCs are inactive. Furthermore, Texas has 4,135 operational facilities.
Sources
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Mayo Clinic[1]
Mayo Clinic[2]
Healthline
Cleveland Clinic
Forbes
Verywell Health
Bradford House Chiropractic Clinic
WebMD[1]
WebMD[2]
Healthgrades
Spine-health
Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners
America's Health Rankings[1]
America’s Health Rankings[2]
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
HealthCentral
Roy Nissim Chiropractic, Inc.
Better Health Alaska
Spring Creek Medical Center
