FAQs
Q: What conditions do chiropractors treat?
A: Chiropractic care includes treatment and relief for patients with back pain, neck pain, headaches, along with injuries involving the muscles, ligaments and joints. But chiropractic care also extends to general health issues and keeping you at optimal living through wellness plans and nutritional counseling.
Q: Is chiropractic treatment safe?
A: Yes. Chiropractic care has an excellent safety record and is a non-drug, non-surgical approach to supporting spinal and musculoskeletal health.
Research involving hundreds of thousands of chiropractic treatments has found that serious adverse events are very rare. Some patients experience temporary soreness or stiffness following an adjustment, much like they might after exercise or other hands-on therapies.
As with any healthcare treatment, risks are not zero. At Prairie Wellness Center, care is tailored to each patient's health history, examination findings, individual needs, and preferences. We discuss appropriate techniques and treatment options to help patients make informed decisions about their care.
Read the peer-reviewed study — Scientific Reports
Q: How is a chiropractic adjustment performed?
A: A chiropractic adjustment or manipulation is a manual procedure that is typically performed with either the hands or a specialized instrument. Applying precise movements and force, chiropractic treatment helps resolve joint inflammation, reduces pain, and restores joint function.
Q: Does chiropractic treatment hurt?
A: Chiropractic manipulation rarely causes discomfort. Adjustments to certain joints may feel slightly uncomfortable or pressure – especially if the area of injury is already tender -- but once the adjustment is performed you should feel no pain.
Q: Can my whole family use chiropractic care?
A:Chiropractic benefits everyone. At Prairie Wellness Center, we focus on preventative family care, including children and infants. During your appointment, we will assess problem areas, identify and treat imbalances, and prevent possible future conditions.
Q: Is chiropractic safe for children?
A: Chiropractic care has many health benefits especially important for kids. As their bodies are growing, we have a huge window of opportunity to have a powerful impact on their health potential. Common problems associated with joint dysfunctions include nursing difficulties, poor sleep quality, constipation, growing pains, posture problems, and behavioral issues. Chiropractic care can restore proper joint function and communication, allowing your child’s body to heal and grow at its best.
Q: Am I too old for chiropractic care?
A: Elderly individuals who are experiencing pain and discomfort in their neck, spine, back and joints can greatly benefit from chiropractic care. It is one of the most effective and safest ways to treat spinal related pain. Chiropractors can help re-adjust misalignments in the spine that may be affecting the central nervous system; or that are present in different discs, muscles and tendons.
Q: How does chiropractic care affect my nervous system?
A: When spinal, cranial, and limb joints are not moving properly, they are not able to send clear communication to the nervous system. The nervous system runs throughout the body and controls all functions, both conscious and subconscious. It relies on constant, clear communication from the joints and muscles to function and develop optimally.
Q: What is a subluxation?
A: A subluxation is a misalignment of the spine. Chiropractic care addresses subluxations along the nervous system. When subluxations occur, the nervous system is unable to function in the way it is supposed to and it can prevent the brain from sending important messages throughout the body. When individuals receive routine care, their nervous system and immune system can function properly. This means less sick days, fewer chances of catching illnesses, and an improved outlook on life and better balance.
Q: Can chiropractic help my posture?
A: If the body has a noticeable postural imbalance -- for example, a high right shoulder -- over time, it can have a serious effect on the body’s nervous system and spine. A chiropractor can help you correct poor posture such as forward head translation or slouching, and realign your spine to assure that the body is functioning optimally.
Q: Is it safe to have chiropractic adjustments to my neck?
A: A neck adjustment (also known as cervical manipulation) is a precise procedure applied to the joints of the neck, usually by hand. A neck adjustment works to improve the mobility of the spine and to restore range of motion; it can also increase movement of the adjoining muscles. Patients typically notice an improved ability to turn and tilt the head, as well as a reduction of pain, soreness, and stiffness.
Q: Do I have to have x-rays?
A: Dr. Whitney Rutledge will order x-rays if she decides from the history and exam that they are indicated.
Q: What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
A: We understand that schedules sometimes change. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please review our Cancellation & Missed Appointment Policy for information about notice requirements and any applicable fees.
[Read our Cancellation & Missed Appointment Policy]