Frequently Asked Questions

What is chiropractic care?

There is nothing mysterious about chiropractic. It is a natural method of health care that focuses on locating and treating the CAUSE of physical problems rather than just the symptoms.

Chiropractic is based on this simple premise: with a normally functioning spine and a healthy nervous system, your body is better able to heal itself. Your nervous system controls feeling, movement, and ALL functions within your body. Chiropractic aims to improve nerve function naturally, without the use of invasive treatments like drugs and surgery.


Is chiropractic safe?

Yes, Absolutely! Chiropractic has an excellent safety record. It is a conservative and natural approach to health care that allows millions of satisfied patients to avoid harmful drugs and unnecessary surgery.

As proof, one merely has to compare malpractice rates between chiropractors and other health care professionals. Chiropractic malpractice premiums are just a small fraction of those for medical doctors.


What is a chiropractic adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is a specific force in a precise direction, applied to a joint that is “locked up” or not moving properly. The purpose of this safe and natural procedure is to eliminate interference to the nervous system, improving spinal function and overall health.

Once the bones or vertebrae are restored to their proper position, the spinal cord and its nerves are no longer irritated and can work as they should. Remember that the nervous system makes EVERYTHING in your body work. Once the spine is “in-line” and no irritation is on the nerves or spinal cord, your body has the ability to be strong, healthy and if injured, heal.

The spinal joints include the bones, cartilage, nerves, spinal cord, the spinal discs, and surrounding muscle and soft tissue. All of these components are given the opportunity to be healthier with a chiropractic adjustment.


Do we take X-rays?

We implore a conservative approach with regard to x-rays. The newest research has shown that x-rays are often taken unnecessarily and overutilized. Our thorough initial exam dictates whether x-rays are needed. If there is a recent trauma or our exam shows ‘red flags’ that indicate a need for x-ray, we will not hesitate in ordering the appropriate radiology exams.


What makes that “popping” sound?

Actually, adjustments do not always produce a sound. However, some adjusting methods can produce a popping sound when the gases and fluids within a joint shift. This audible spinal release is similar to the noise created when opening a can of soda and the pressure is released. This sound is completely harmless.


Are all patients adjusted the same way?

No. Chiropractors have specialized training in many different adjusting techniques in order to provide exceptional care to all kinds of patients. Your adjustment and treatment plan will be custom tailored to best fit your condition and comfort level.

Just like fingerprints, no two spines are exactly the same. Some factors that determine which type of adjusting techniques your chiropractor will use include: patient age, weight, preference, occupation, stress level, sleep quality, and of course spinal condition.


Can you receive adjustments if you have spinal disease or have had surgery?

That depends on your particular case but in most instances, yes! It is an unfortunate fact that up to half of those who had spinal surgery discover a return of their original symptoms months or years later. They then face the prospect of additional surgery. This too common occurrence is known as “Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.” Chiropractic may help prevent repeated back surgeries. In fact, if chiropractic care is initially utilized, back surgery can often be avoided in the first place.


Is chiropractic addictive?

No. If only it were, there would be more healthy people around and chiropractors would not get patients who last saw a chiropractor “a few years ago when their back went out.

It is possible to get used to feeling more balanced, less stressed, and more energetic as a result of regular chiropractic care.


Once I start going to a chiropractor do I have to keep going for the rest of my life?

Of course not. Our mission is to get you back to what you love to do without continued trips to the chiropractor. However, chiropractic care has long term benefits that many people choose to enjoy for the rest of their lives, much for the same reason that people eat right, exercise, brush their teeth, go to the dentist, or take vitamins for the rest of their lives . . . because it’s good for you!

How long you decide to benefit from chiropractic care is completely up to you. You can choose to discontinue care just like you can choose when you go to the dentist. It just depends on your personal health goals.


I just don’t believe in chiropractic.

For those of you who do not “believe” in chiropractic, that’s OK. Chiropractic is not a religion and it does not require your faith to work.

We do not require you to sign a contract. You are not "sold" into anything here. You are welcome to use as much or as little care as you see fit. Just want to talk and get information? No Problem. We talk muscles and joints here, movement and function, reduced pain... That's what it's all about right? Talk with us, chances are you'll be pleasantly surprised.


Is chiropractic care expensive?

Studies in recent years show that for many conditions, chiropractic is the most cost-effective option available. People who utilize regular chiropractic care spend less money on total health care expenses because they are healthier and have less illness and injury.

In 1992, the Journal of American Health Policy reported that after a review of data from over 2,000,000 users of chiropractic care in the U.S., “Chiropractic users tend to have substantially lower total health care costs” and “chiropractic care reduces the use of both physician and hospital care.”

At our office, we are a preferred in-network provider with most insurance companies as well as a participating provider with Medicare. If you don’t have insurance, no problem. We have plenty of affordable options outside of insurance. Please visit our insurance/costs page for more info.


Is it OK to see a chiropractor if I’m pregnant?

We love seeing our pregnant patients! Pregnant women frequently get great results from chiropractic care. We know that carrying a child puts extra strain on your spine, and we can help manage those symptoms. Chiropractors are trained in special techniques for adjusting pregnant women.

Because of the inability to take medication for pain, the natural approach is a logical choice for pregnant women. More and more, obstetricians are referring to chiropractors due to the effectiveness of spinal adjustments for pain relief. Also, proper pelvic alignment is so important for the best possible delivery.


What is Spinal Decompression?

We are excited about offering Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression! Both Dr. Chris and Dr. Steve have undergone extensive training to become Certified Kennedy Decompression Practitioners.

Decompression Therapy is a non-surgical traction-based procedure that effectively treats disabling low back, neck, radiating leg & arm pain, and headaches. Decompression Therapy effectively relieves the pain associated with disc herniation, degenerative discs, posterior facet, and other spinal related syndromes, by reducing the pressure on spinal discs and facet joints through unloading created by distraction and positioning.

Decompression Therapy is a highly successful treatment for patients suffering from bulging, herniated, degenerative, or ruptured discs as well as sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, and many failed back surgery cases. Research to develop this procedure was conducted by prominent physicians, engineers and technicians at major teaching hospitals. At North Brunswick, we choose the versatile new cutting-edge Kennedy Neural Flex Decompression table. Find out more about our Spinal Decompression.


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