Frequently Asked Questions in Costa Mesa CA

Chiropractic care is a form of healthcare that uses a holistic approach to help the body heal naturally, without the need for medication. It focuses on treating the neuromusculoskeletal system, which includes the muscles, nerves, and bones.

Chiropractors commonly treat headaches, neck pain, and low back pain. Other conditions they treat include acute injuries like sprains and strains, herniated or bulging discs, muscle stiffness, neuropathy, and hormonal imbalances. It's recommended to schedule a chiropractic consultation to determine if your condition can be treated.

A chiropractic adjustment is a quick, gentle thrust applied to the spine or a soft pull of a joint, aimed at correcting misalignment or improving movement.

Yes, chiropractic treatments are safe when performed by a licensed and trained professional. If a chiropractor thinks chiropractic treatment is not safe for a patient, not only will a chiropractor notify the patient but will refer to a specialist if needed.

The chiropractor will determine the length of treatment after a thorough evaluation. Initially, patients typically undergo a corrective care program to address the root cause of the issue. After this phase, patients move on to a maintenance program to preserve the improvements made. An analogy would be dental braces (corrective care) and retainers (maintenance) – braces fix the alignment, and retainers help maintain it.

Chiropractic care offers numerous benefits, with pain management being the most common. Additional benefits include improved sleep, increased range of motion, enhanced flexibility, reduced inflammation, and fewer headaches.

Complications are rare when treatment is done correctly, but potential risks may include nerve or bone compression, stroke, fractures, or disc herniations.

Chiropractic adjustments should not be painful. A gentle thrust or pull is applied to the spine or joint. If an area is too inflamed, adjustments are typically avoided to
prevent discomfort for further complications.

Our experienced and licensed team members are committed to helping patients achieve long-term wellness and relief from pain without relying on medication. We personalize our care for each patient along with comprehensive treatment options that are safe and effective. Based on our knowledge, we care for young children to seniors with our holistic approach.

The duration of a chiropractic appointment varies depending on the treatment being provided, typically lasting between 30 to 45 minutes. A typical visit includes both a massage and an adjustment.

Chiropractors undergo a similar educational path to medical doctors (M.D.), with Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) studies requiring approximately 1,200 additional hours of training compared to M.D. programs.

Absolutely! Pregnancy leads to various changes in the body, especially in the joints. Collagen levels decrease, causing the joints to loosen, which can impact areas like the spine, pelvis, and muscles. Chiropractic care can help address these changes.

Chiropractic care is not addictive. As you go through your chiropractic journey, you become more in tune with your body. When discomfort arises, you may recognize it as a misalignment (subluxation) and seek chiropractic care for relief.

The cracking sound heard during an adjustment is caused by gas being released from a joint

While it is technically possible, it is not recommended. It is always best to have a licensed chiropractor perform the adjustment to ensure safety and effectiveness.

It depends on your specific insurance plan. It's advisable to contact your insurance provider to confirm which chiropractic services are covered.

Back pain is one of the most common conditions treated by chiropractors. After a thorough examination, the chiropractor will determine the most effective treatment. In addition to adjustments, treatments like spinal decompression can be beneficial for low back pain.

Neck pain is another common issue that can result from various causes, such as poor posture, lack of spine curvature, or herniated discs. Chiropractors use more than just adjustments to address neck pain, tailoring treatments to the specific cause.

Headaches can result from various factors. A common cause is misalignment in the C1 and C2 vertebrae, which can put pressure on nerves and trigger headaches. This type of headache is known as a Cervicogenic headache and is often relieved through adjustments.

Both chiropractic care and physical therapy are effective treatments, but they approach healing differently. Physical therapy focuses on long-term rehabilitation and muscle improvement, while chiropractic care emphasizes treating the body as a whole and offering immediate relief for acute injuries. Combining both approaches can be beneficial in addressing various issues.

Chiropractors are excellent for treating sports injuries, which often require immediate care. In addition to adjustments, treatments like Ultrasound/Sinewave therapy, Electrical Stimulation, and Massage Therapy can assist in healing acute injuries.

Chiropractic care can help improve posture, but it also requires patient commitment to maintain proper alignment. Factors such as not sitting for long periods, using ergonomic furniture, and standing desks can support better posture and help maintain the corrections made during chiropractic treatments.

During a spinal adjustment, the patient lies face down on an adjustment table while the chiropractor examines the spine for misalignments. Once identified, the chiropractor applies a gentle thrust to realign the vertebrae. For neck or joint adjustments, the patient typically lies face up, and a gentle pull is applied to restore proper alignment.

Chiropractic care is safe for individuals of all ages, including children. Starting chiropractic care early, even in newborns, can help address issues like Torticollis and Colic. As children grow and experience growth spurts, chiropractic care can alleviate pain by focusing on their bones, muscles, and nerves. Not all chiropractors treat children, so it's important to seek one who specializes in pediatric care.