Should you have any further questions, please Contact Us
or visit the office. We are located in Sherman Oaks, off the 405 Freeway. Click here for MAP and Directions.
What is Chiropractic?
The art and science and philosophy of Chiropractic focus on the proper biomechanical alignment of every bone throughout the human body. Special attention is paid to the vertebral column as it houses and protects the spinal cord, a complex bundle of nerves that controls the actions of the body.
The spine is composed of 24 interacting bony segments called vertebrae. Between each vertebrae, nerves exit the spinal cord. As those vertebrae allow for motion they are vulnerable to displacement. A partial displacement between two vertebrae is called a vertebral
subluxation.
As Chiropractors, we know the body strives to maintain optimal health in the absence of interference. Vertebral
subluxation is one such interference that prevents the body from self healing. Our job is to detect and correct
subluxation. In addition, it is not uncommon for chiropractors to integrate other forms of complementary care such as physiotherapy, massage therapy and nutritional advice.
Chiropractic as we know it today was founded in 1895 by D.D.
Palmer. However it is believed that manipulations of the spine to address related pathologies were performed way before this time. Hippocrates, a Greek physician who lived around 400BC wrote: "Look to the spine for the source of all disease".
Are Chiroprators Doctors?
Yes. Doctors of Chiropractic (D.C.) undergo rigorous and demanding professional education equivalent to any other primary care provider. The main difference between MDs and Chiropractors is in the use of prescription drugs. While modern medicine concentrates on treating symptoms with medications, Chiropractors focus on identifying the root cause of the problem and naturally restoring the body's ability to self regulate.
To obtain a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, prospective chiropractors must complete several years of prerequisite undergraduate education and graduate from a fully-accredited chiropractic college. Student doctors are thoroughly trained in the appropriate use of sophisticated analytical equipment including x-rays, examination procedures, and state of the art chiropractic investigative technologies.
Before practicing, Doctors of Chiropractic must pass a series of National Boards, as well as a licensing exam for the state in which they choose to practice. In addition, most states (including California) require attendance at clinical continuing education programs for annual relicensure.
Is Chiropractic Safe?
Yes. If delivered by a licensed, board certified chiropractor, the spinal
adjustment is extremely safe.
In a 1994 interview reported by the Associated Press, Louis Sportelli, president of National Chiropractic Mutual Insurance Company, stated:
"When you weigh the procedure (the spinal adjustment) against any other procedure in the health-care industry, it is probably the lowest risk factor of anything."
Despite the litigious society we live in, doctors of Chiropractic have one of the lowest malpractice insurance premiums among any health care provider.
What is a Subluxation?
The term vertebral subluxation is commonly used among chiropractors and refers to the condition where one or more vertebrae of your spine move out of position in relation with the vertebrae above or below.
Besides compromising the overall biomechanical functions of the spine, vertebral
subluxations also create pressure resulting in irritation to the spinal nerves and neighboring tissues. The major effect is the interruption of communication between the brain, spinal cord and nerves or tissues throughout the body.
What is an Adjustment?
The word Chiropractic comes from the Greek (chiros + pracktikos) meaning
"done by hands." Chiropractors use their hands to deliver spinal adjustments, which consist of realigning the vertebrae by applying a specific pressure and direction to the affected segment.
Depending on the location of the subluxation, the chiropractor will deliver the
adjustment with the patient face down (prone), face up (supine), in side posture, or seated.
Does an Adjustment Hurt?
No. A chiropractic adjustment does not hurt. Most patients look forward to being adjusted and often feel an instant sense of well-being after their adjustment. However in the case of long standing or severe presentation, some level of discomfort may be felt due to on-going tissue inflammation.
Who can Benefit from Chiropractic?
Once we understand the concept behind chiropractic care and its impact on the human body it is easy to understand the techniques would benefit men, women and children. In fact, early detection and correction of
subluxations in childhood will result in healthy growth and physical development.
When Should I See a Chiropractor?
Even though the majority of new patients that visit a chiropractor are often driven by the severity of their symptoms, pain should not be the impetus for your visit.
In the absence of recent trauma or bodily injury, the onset of pain can often be traced to years of neglect.
Regular chiropractic care catches small problems before they become serious, and allows you to enjoy everyday life at its fullest.
Are X-Rays Useful in Diagnosis?
Radiographic study of the spine can be helpful. No matter how skilled the physician, it may be difficult to properly assess the general condition of the spine through observation and palpation. Therefore, using x-rays can be a timely, cost efficient and non invasive diagnostic tool.
Because every individual is different and unique, congenital anatomical variants, undiagnosed results of trauma, or emerging pathologies, although uncommon, are revealed by radiographic means that might not otherwise be found.
Treatment of Personal Injuries?
Life happens and you are faced with personal injury. Whether it is a slip-and-fall or a car accident, we are here to provide you with the best and most comprehensive Chiropractic care to get you up and functioning again. In addition, if necessary we can refer you to attorneys who are well versed in personal injury legal representation.