Frequently Asked Questions in Baltimore MD

Find out the answers Baltimore MD Chiropractors frequently give to patients seeking to learn more about chiropractic care at their office. Learning more about chiropractic and its benefits can help you find the best chiropractor for you. If you have a question you don't see answered below, reach out to your team at Shifrin Family Chiropractic at (443) 692-7752.

What is a chiropractor?

A chiropractor is a healthcare professional who specializes in treating problems related to the muscles, spine, and nervous system. They use their hands to perform adjustments and manipulations on the spine and muscles to help relieve pain, improve joint function, and promote overall well-being.

What is chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care is a type of healthcare that focuses on the spine and nervous system. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques, like adjustments, to improve the alignment of the spine and help the body heal itself. They aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote overall health without using surgery or drugs.

Are chiropractors doctors?

Yes, the degree required to become a chiropractor is a doctoral degree known as a Doctor of Chiropractic.

What is the history of chiropractic care?

Chiropractic was founded in 1895 by Daniel David Palmer in the United States. Palmer believed that misalignments in the spine could cause health issues and performed the first chiropractic adjustment on a deaf janitor, reporting improvements in his hearing after the adjustment. Over time, chiropractic gained recognition and grew as a form of alternative medicine, helping people with musculoskeletal and nervous system problems using hands-on techniques. Today, chiropractors are widely accepted healthcare professionals worldwide.

What does a chiropractor do?

A chiropractor specializes in diagnosing and treating issues related to the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine and nervous system. They use manual techniques, such as spinal adjustments and manipulations, to realign the spine and improve joint function. By doing so, they aim to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and promote overall well-being. Chiropractors may also provide advice on exercises, nutrition, and lifestyle changes to support their patients' health. They often focus on treating conditions like back pain, neck pain, headaches, and other joint-related problems without using surgery or drugs.

Are chiropractors useful?

Yes, chiropractors are very useful. We believe that by aligning the spine and improving joint function, we can help relieve pain, reduce discomfort, and promote overall health naturally, without surgery or drugs. Chiropractic care aims to support your body's ability to heal itself, making you feel better and move better.

Does chiropractic work?

Yes, chiropractic care can be effective for many musculoskeletal and neurological conditions and has helped numerous patients experience pain relief and improved mobility.

Are chiropractors safe?

Yes, chiropractors are safe when care is performed by a qualified and licensed chiropractor.

Are there chiropractic adjustment side effects?

Common side effects include mild soreness or discomfort in the treated area, temporary fatigue, and occasional headaches. Some patients may also experience mild dizziness, lightheadedness, or minor bruising. These side effects are usually short-lived and not severe. Chiropractors aim to minimize the risk of adverse reactions by assessing each patient's individual health condition and tailoring the treatment accordingly.

How many chiropractic sessions do you need?

The number of chiropractic sessions a person may need can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the individual's specific health condition, the severity of the issue, and how their body responds to treatment. Some people may experience significant relief after just a few sessions, while others may require more frequent visits over a more extended period.

How can I find a chiropractor near me?

The best ways to find a chiropractor near you are by using a search engine like Google, social media, or asking a friend or colleague for recommendations.

What are common chiropractic techniques?

Some common techniques in chiropractic include Spinal Manipulation/Adjustment, Diversified Technique, Activator Method, Webster Technique, Thompson Drop Technique, Flexion-Distraction, Gonstead Technique, ART (Active Release Technique) and Graston Technique.

What does a chiropractor treat?

Chiropractors primarily treat musculoskeletal and nervous system issues. Some of the common conditions and symptoms chiropractors can address include: neck pain, back pain, headaches and migraines, joint pain, arthritis, sports injuries, TMJ disorders, postural issues, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, whiplash, nerve compression, scoliosis and sciatica.

How do chiropractors relieve pain from injuries or accidents?

Chiropractors relieve pain from injuries or accidents primarily through a combination of manual techniques, therapeutic exercises, and other non-invasive approaches. These include: Spinal Adjustments, Soft Tissue Therapy, Therapeutic Exercises, Electric Stimulation, Heat and Ice Therapy, Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice, Rehabilitation, and Pain Management Techniques.

What other conditions can be treated by chiropractic care?

In addition to addressing musculoskeletal and nervous system issues, chiropractic care may offer benefits for various other conditions and aspects of overall health. Some of the other conditions that can be treated or managed with chiropractic care include: Pregnancy-Related Discomfort, Digestive Issues, Asthma and Sleep Problems.

Can I get chiropractic care during pregnancy?

Yes, chiropractic care is generally considered safe and can be beneficial during pregnancy. Many pregnant women seek chiropractic care to help manage musculoskeletal discomfort, particularly in the back, hips, and pelvis. As the body undergoes significant changes during pregnancy, such as weight gain, hormonal shifts, and postural adjustments, chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate pain and promote better alignment. Chiropractic care during pregnancy can have several potential benefits, including: Relief from Back Pain and Discomfort, Improved Pelvic Alignment, Enhanced Nervous System Function, and Easier Labor and Delivery. Webster Technique is a gentle chiropractic method used during pregnancy to help moms feel better and possibly improve the baby's position for birth.

Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?

Chiropractic adjustments are generally not painful. In fact, many people find them to be comfortable and relieving. Chiropractors are trained to perform adjustments using controlled and gentle techniques to minimize discomfort.

Why do adjustments sometimes make a popping sound?

This sound happens when gas bubbles inside the joint are released. It's similar to the sound you hear when cracking your knuckles. The popping sound is normal and doesn't usually cause any pain. It's just a natural part of the adjustment process.

Are all patients adjusted the same way?

No, not all patients are adjusted the same way. Chiropractic care is personalized and tailored to each individual's unique needs and conditions.

Can I learn to adjust myself?

It is not recommended for individuals to attempt to adjust themselves. Chiropractic adjustments are specialized techniques that require years of training and expertise to perform safely and effectively. Chiropractors undergo extensive education and practical training to learn how to perform adjustments properly and to understand the complexities of the human musculoskeletal system. Attempting to adjust yourself or having someone without proper training perform adjustments on you can be dangerous and may lead to injury.

Will I be required to remove my clothing at my appointment?

No, but it is essential to wear loose and comfortable clothing to your appointment to allow for ease of movement during the evaluation and adjustment.

Is chiropractic treatment appropriate for children?

Yes, chiropractic treatment can be appropriate for children. Pediatric chiropractors are specially trained to provide safe and gentle care for children of all ages, from infants to teenagers. Some of the conditions it can help with include: Colic and Digestive Issues, Bed Wetting, Ear Infections, Developmental Milestones, Posture Issues, Growing Pains and Scoliosis.

What type of education and training do chiropractors have?

Chiropractors typically complete a minimum of three years of undergraduate education, followed by four years of full-time study at a chiropractic college. Their education includes coursework in subjects like anatomy, physiology, pathology, radiology, and chiropractic techniques. After completing their education, they must pass a national licensing examination to become licensed practitioners. They also participate in continuing education to stay updated on advancements in the field.

OFFICE HOURS


Monday
9:00am - 1:00pm
3:00pm - 7:00pm


Tuesday
9:00am - 1:00pm
3:00pm - 7:00pm


Wednesday
9:00am - 1:00pm
3:00pm - 7:00pm


Thursday
By Appointment Only


Friday
9:00am - 1:00pm


Saturday & Sunday
Closed

Shifrin Family Chiropractic

2700 Lighthouse Point E #320
Baltimore, MD 21224

(443) 692-7752