What To Expect
On The First Visit
The first visit will consist of a complimentary consultation with one of our Doctors to see why you are coming into our office, and more importantly, if you are in the right place. After the consultation if you are ready, we will do an exam which will consist of Orthopedic, Neurological, and Chiropractic Testing. These tests give us a better understanding of what is causing your particular problems, and how we can best correct them naturally. At the doctor's discretion you may or may not get adjusted on the first visit. Some patients may need further diagnostic testing including possible X-Rays, MRI's, etc. in order to come up with the best diagnosis and course of care.
What Does A Chiropractor Treat?
Chiropractors use adjustments to restore range of motion to joints that aren't moving properly, improving long term abnormal biomechanics. According to the American Chiropractic Association, "Chiropractic is a health care profession that focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system, and the effects of these disorders on general health. Chiropractic services are used most often to treat neuromusculoskeletal complaints, including but not limited to back pain, neck pain, pain in the joints of the arms or legs, and headaches.[*]" Essentially we facilitate your body to heal on it's own naturally, allowing it to function at it's highest potential. This means that you can live your life to the fullest by increasing the quality of your life, and add quantity to your years!
*(https://www.acatoday.org/Patients/Why-Choose-Chiropractic/What-is-Chiropractic)
Is Chiropractic Safe?
Yes, chiropractic is one of the safest professions not only in alternative medicine, but in medicine as well. This is shown through our malpractice insurance costs which are very low. In our office, we do strict Orthopedic, Neurological, and Chiropractic testing, to get to the root cause of problems, as well as red flags for care. We individualize each and every technique to best suit a patient, creating a very safe environment for your body to stay healthy and well. In our office, we go above and beyond what is required in an already safe profession, to minimize risks as much as possible.
Does A Chiropractic Adjustment Hurt?
Chiropractic adjustments may cause aching or soreness, but typically are pain-free. Non-manual adjusting techniques like instrument assisted techniques may not feel like anything. Many times patients won't even know that an adjustment was performed let alone have the adjustment be painful.
How Does A Chiropractic Adjustment Work?
Think of your spine as an organ system. The thought process for years is that the brain and the spinal cord are protected by the skull and spine. This is true, however there are millions of nerves that are constantly feeding the spinal cord information about what is happening in the body. We have two main types of nerves in and around the spine, called nociceptors and mechanoreceptors. Think of them on a constant see-saw. If mechanoreceptors (movement) are firing, nociceptors (pain) can't fire. With adjustments, we are passively getting mechanoreceptors to fire sending afferent bombardment (good) signals to the brain. This tells the brain that things are working as they're supposed to. The adjustments are literally affecting your brain and the adaptability of the body to it's environment by better balancing the body. Each adjustment is capable of doing amazing things in our bodies, due to the information reaching the brain. This is why chiropractic is so amazing, and we hear so many success stories!
Can I See A Chiropractor If I Am Pregnant?
Absolutely! We have certain techniques specific to pregnant women, as well as tables that allow a comfortable laying position to get adjusted. Research has shown that chiropractic helps with pain during the pregnancy, creates a balanced environment in the pelvis, and creates an easier delivery when the time comes.
Does Insurance Cover Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is covered by most insurances, however insurance has limitations; creating a doctor that is limited in what they can do. We accept CDPHP, NYSHIP Empire Plan, MVP, and United Healthcare insurance plans. If you don't have one of these insurances, we do accept HSA Healthcare and Flexible spending accounts, as well as credit cards, cash and checks for payment as well for your healthcare needs. We also have the ability to provide you with a receipt of services which you may present to your insurance company for possible reimbursement if you want to use self pay options.
Does Chiropractic Require A Referral?
You do not need a referral from your medical doctor to come under chiropractic care, however we do have many M.D.'s and other health professionals including Orthopedists, Physical Therapists, Athletic Trainers, Massage Therapists, etc. that regularly refer patients for care and understand the benefits of Chiropractic.
What Type Of Education Do Chiropractors Have?
Dr. Amy received a 4 year undergraduate degree, before receiving another 5 years of chiropractic education condensed into 3.5 years. During his education in chiropractic school he learned subjects from Biochemistry to Microbiology. He studied Advanced Anatomy, learning the intricate details of the human body. He also received extensive training in Radiology, taking and viewing X-Rays, MRI's, CT scans, etc. Dr. Amy is trained in patient assessment, where they learn to determine your specific diagnosis, and if it is safe to adjust you. Finally, he was taught countless hours of adjusting technique, learning the specific palpation skills, adjusting speed, and vectors necessary for specific adjustments to the spine and extremities.
If You Have Any Other Questions...
Please feel free to ask. We want to be as open as possible while you make a decision to come under chiropractic care. If you have any questions that aren't listed, we can always answer them through an email or on the phone to put your mind at ease. A well informed patient will make well informed decisions.
