Here are answers to the questions we hear most. If we didn't cover yours, call us at (253) 854-3938 and we'll be happy to help.
What is a chiropractor?
Many people think of chiropractic as "cracking joints," but the popping sound is simply pressure releasing from the fluid in a joint and has little to do with the treatment itself. Chiropractic care focuses on the nervous system and the soft tissue around the spine, gently moving misaligned vertebrae back into a better position. That helps soft tissue heal, calms the pain cycle, stabilizes the spine and supports the body's own healing.
What conditions can chiropractors help?
Chiropractic care is well researched as a non-drug option for back sprains and strains, including work, sports and car accident injuries. We also see good results with headaches, arm and leg pain, sleep problems, balance issues, scoliosis and many other spine-related problems.
Is chiropractic care safe?
Yes, when performed by a trained, licensed chiropractor. Doctors of Chiropractic complete undergraduate study followed by four years of chiropractic college, including more than 4,200 hours of instruction. At Pfeiffer Chirowellness we use gentle manual adjustment techniques.
What's the difference between a physical therapist and a chiropractor?
Many chiropractors, including our clinic, use physical therapy methods such as massage, stretching, strengthening exercises, heat and cold therapy and posture instruction alongside spinal adjustments, which helps adjustments hold longer. Physical therapists do not perform chiropractic spinal adjustments.
Is chiropractic care effective for back pain?
Yes. Research has found chiropractic care to be effective and cost-efficient for low back pain compared with other conventional approaches. Many professional sports teams keep a chiropractor on staff for the same reason.
Are chiropractors medical doctors?
Chiropractors are Doctors of Chiropractic (D.C.), not Doctors of Medicine (M.D.). The training is similar in many ways, with chiropractic school placing more emphasis on anatomy, nutrition and body mechanics. Chiropractors and medical doctors regularly refer patients to each other when that's in the patient's best interest.
How many visits will I need?
Every patient is different. We start with a complete history, exam and, if needed, x-rays to build the right plan for you. Most patients start feeling better after the first adjustment or two, but long-standing or severe problems take more time to heal and stabilize.
Is it okay to pop my own neck or back?
We don't recommend it. A harmless pop while stretching is nothing to worry about, but forcing or twisting your spine, or having an untrained person do it, can loosen the joints that already move too much while the stuck ones stay stuck, which can lead to injury. Dr. Pfeiffer has given over a million adjustments and still goes to another chiropractor for his own.
Won't my neck and back heal on their own after a car accident?
Injured tissue will heal to a point on its own, but when a collision forces the spine out of position, the joints often don't regain normal motion and stability without proper care. Even low-speed collisions can change the natural curve of the neck, which may lead to headaches and chronic neck, shoulder or arm pain. The sooner you get care after an accident, the better your chances of avoiding long-term pain.