FAQ's
What conditions do chiropractors treat?
Many think of a chiropractor as a back doctor. It is true that chiropractic adjustments, also called spinal manipulations, have been proven to be the best treatment choice for back and neck pain. However, chiropractic has had great success with asthma, high blood pressure, earaches, jaw pain, digestive problems, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, leg or arm pain, and a host of other issues. If you have noticed a decline in your general ability to get around or if you have a problem that is not responding to other therapies it is a good idea to visit a chiropractor to see if perhaps your spine is interfering with your nervous system. (back to top)
How should I feel after an adjustment?
Most people feel relaxed following an adjustment and many experience a sense of warmth flowing to various parts of their bodies while others may feel very energetic. Occasionally someone will experience some discomfort, muscle soreness or a headache. Many people find that their symptoms have begun to disappear after a first visit for a particular problem while some do not have a significant external reaction to the treatment. (back to top)
Are chiropractic adjustments safe?
Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints. Although no health treatment is completely free of potential adverse effects, the risks associated with chiropractic are very small.
It is also important for patients to understand the risks associated with some of the most common treatments for musculoskeletal pain -- prescription and over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) -- as these treatments may carry risks significantly greater than those of chiropractic manipulation. According to a study from the American Journal of Gastroenterology, approximately one-third of all hospitalizations and deaths related to gastrointestinal bleeding can be attributed to the use of aspirin or NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen.
Is chiropractic care appropriate for children?
From infancy on, a chiropractor can provide gentle spinal adjustments to eliminate nervous system malfunctions that cause colic, bed-wetting, hyperactivity, skin rashes, stomach upset, asthma and other allergies. Chiropractic services help to ensure proper development of a child's spine and nervous system and can help avoid the use of potentially dangerous drugs with possible side effects. (back to top)
Will my medical insurance pay for visits to my chiropractor?
Most insurances now provide coverage for chiropractic treatment with no referral or pre-certification required. Coastal Chiropractic is an in-network provider for Anthem BCBS, Cigna, United, Medicare, and Harvard Pilgrim
How long will I have to come for treatment?
The extent of treatment needed depends on the nature of the health concern and goal of the patient. Many patients schedule routine checkups to help patients maintain spinal health and proper functioning of the body. Other patients come in for pain relief or specific injuries and are released when the problem is resolved. Regardless, each case is different and depends on several factors. (back to top)
Could I become dependent on chiropractic adjustments?
The renewed freedom of movement and ease from discomfort are very rewarding. Once a patient feels the difference chiropractic care makes in their life they may wish to make routine chiropractic appointments. The treatments themselves do not create dependence. It is the improvements and the reality that you do not have to learn to "live with it" that interests patients in returning for routine care. Routine care is always the choice of the patient. (back to top)Will I have to have x-rays?
What is the popping sound caused by some adjustments?
Not all chiropractic adjustments create a popping sound but when they do it is simply the release of a gas bubble from between the joint. The noise is created by cavitation, which is a change in the pressure within the joint that causes a gas bubble to be released from the liquid within the joint. This is the same process that occurs when you open a bottle of soda. It is not painful.
What is a chiropractic philosophy toward wellness?
The chiropractic profession offers a natural drugless approach to wellness. It avoids treating illness with the application of potentially dangerous medicines that are often targeted to reduce symptoms rather than heal causes. Chiropractic science is a healing art based on the premise that a well functioning nervous system is an essential foundation for good health. A skilled examination of the spine and pelvis can locate the malfunctions that lead to disease. A chiropractic adjustment to the spine restores balance to the nervous system so it can properly supply the body's organs and other systems. In addition to spinal manipulations, the doctor of chiropractic is trained in nutrition and body motion, and can provide essential guidance about the foods, food supplements and activities that help patients achieve and maintain wellness. (back to top)
What type of education and training do chiropractors have?
Chiropractors are required to complete an intense course of doctorate study similar to medical school but with more emphasis on anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, rehabilitation, nutrition, and, of course, chiropractic techniques. A bachelors degree is required for matriculation and an internship is required for graduation. In order to be licensed, graduates must undergo national and state board examinations. (back to top)
Will I have to have x-rays?
Dr. Bannon does not use a chiropractic technique that relies on x-rays to determine subluxations. X-rays are ordered on a case by case basis after an initial history and examination are performed. (back to top)