Choosing a chiropractor
There are many different types of Chiropractors practicing chiropractic. While the fundamentals are the same, people respond differently to the styles of chiropractic care.
It is important to know that various styles suit individuals differently. Not all chiropractors analyze the information from your nervous system the same. "Shopping" for a health care provider is important. If a person is not satisfied with results, try communicating with the doctor/chiropractor first; and if you are still not satisfied, try another doctor or chiropractor.
Questions to ask include:
What chiropractic style do you use?
We base our style off a system called Gonstead. This is a manual technique in which the adjustment is based on the spinal disc versus the spinal facet joint (Diversified technique approach). The adjustments are done with the doctor's hand. The Gonstead approach uses:
- Spinal motion palpation (how the bones move)
- Spinal static palpation (how the bones feel without moving)
- Visualization (observation on muscles imbalances, skin texture changes, swelling of the joints)
- Initial set of x-rays and subsequent ones as needed (depending upon how much arthritic changes or malpositions the spine has undergone)
- Spinal surface temperature (looking for inflammatory responses in the spine)
How do you analyze my nervous system?
We use a state-of-the-art nervous system scan called the subluxation station. It measures the tension in the spinal muscles (surface EMG- electromylograph), inflammation areas in the spine through surface temperature, and heart rate variability. We use the Gonstead technique (see "What chiropractic style do you use?" above) to also help determine how the nervous system is working. We also perform an exam comprised of orthopedic, neurologic and muscle tests.
How do you measure results?
Once all data is gathered, we use the information to find which nerves are compromised. From here, we begin adjustments and see how the body responds. We take into account what changes you notice; how your body handles the adjustment; any changes in skin temperature, texture, spinal motion etc.; and we retest every 12th visit to check your progress.
How do you educate me so I have the knowledge for my own healthcare decisions?
We host health classes one to two times per month to educate you on different health topics. We have a staple class called "45 Minutes to Freedom," and it relates nervous system function to total body health. If you have a particular subject you are interested in learning more about, you can always ask Dr. Erin to give a class on that particular topic. We use each visit as an opportunity for you to learn one thing about your nervous system, chiropractic, or health that you may not have known before. We enjoy answering health questions and give you the opportunity to ask why. Educating you on "why" something occurs in the body is the best way to empower you to make your own health care decisions.