QC Family Focus: October 2014

Chiropractic evaluation and treatment:
WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
Barbara Mansholt, D.C., M.S.
Palmer Chiropractic Clinics
When many people think
about chiropractic care they may
consider it for neck pain or low back
pain. Chiropractic is a logical first
step to evaluate and treat either of
these conditions, as research shows
evidence to support chiropractic’s
effectiveness for chronic low back
pain, neck pain and cervicogenic
headaches (those originating from
the neck). The treatment risks are very low, and overall
costs of care are no more, and perhaps a bit less, than
other conservative treatments for these conditions.
Some individuals also seek chiropractic care and
get good results for other skeletal pains, such as sciatica/
leg pain, arm pain or numbness, or sports injuries, and
for constipation, indigestion, earaches or wellness/
preventive care. There are many reasons people seek
chiropractic care. Chiropractors can treat a variety of
back and other pains, and many people find relief from
other conditions while under chiropractic care, despite
the gaps in scientific evidence or understanding why.
How do you determine when to choose
chiropractic for your care? Be an informed consumer.
Know how to manage your care with your doctor.
What should you expect when you visit a doctor
of chiropractic? Your first visit should be similar to
an appointment with any doctor or nurse practitioner.
In addition to completing the necessary forms, you’ll
answer a lot of questions not only about the primary
reason for your visit (chief complaint) but also about
your overall health history (review of systems) because
it may relate to your condition and treatment.
You’ll have vital signs taken and receive a
physical examination of appropriate length for your
condition and health history. If you’re able, your doctor
will perform reflex tests and have you move (or move
you) in different ways (orthopedic/neurological tests)
to help determine the cause of your condition. You
may or may not need X-rays, depending upon both
your condition and the type of treatment your doctor
provides.
Your doctor of chiropractic may also order lab
work, special imaging, and/or refer you to another doctor
for further evaluation, treatment or concurrent care.
Your doctor should: 1) Provide you with information
regarding your condition (what caused it and what you
can do at home, if anything); and 2) Explain the kind of
40 October 2014 - QC Family Focus
treatment recommended, including how frequent, how
long, and a measurable goal of treatment.
There are many different types of treatments
available from your doctor of chiropractic, including
traditional adjusting techniques, table-assisted “drop” or
flexion/distraction techniques, or instrument adjusting
techniques. Some doctors use specific exercises and/or
active techniques to retrain your muscles. The length
of time and goals of each treatment program can vary
widely depending on the techniques used and your
health condition, so know your personal goals for
efficient treatment and results.
Chiropractic is an effective treatment for a
variety of conditions. You can be the best consumer of
chiropractic health care by recognizing what examination
and treatment you should receive. A variety of treatments
are available; some work better for different types of
conditions as well as different individuals. Being an
informed health care consumer and communicating
openly with your doctor of chiropractic will put you on
the most efficient path to a healthier you.
Bettendorf Health Care Center
A Place To Call Home
2730 Crow Creek Rd • Bettendorf, IA • (563) 332-7463
2730 Crow Creek Rd - Bettendorf, IA
563.332.7463
• We offer skilled rehab 6 days a week.
That means you can get well and go home.
• Our elegant dining area comes complete with china,
crystal, linen table cloths and family-style dining.
• You never know when you might need special care.
That’s why we work closely with all area hospitals and
accept admissions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• We are conveniently located on Crow Creek in Bettendorf.
•We offer tours of our facility 7 days a week!
• Activities for all ages and abilities, a variety of
religious services, and a caring and competent staff.
When you can’t go home,
we’re the next best thing!