Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you have a question not answered below in the FAQ, email us at thehumanbodyshop@gmail.com

How can chiropractic care help me?

Chiropractic works to maintain your body’s proper motion and posture. We assess and treat areas of joint motion restriction. This leads to improved flexibility, less pain, and a more balanced nervous system. 

What is an adjustment/manipulation?

Spinal manipulation, otherwise known as an adjustment, is the restoration of movement to an immobile joint by a chiropractor. We will usually use our hands to give a precise thrust to a joint to re-introduce motion where it has been lost.  This restored motion affects the nervous system and surrounding soft tissues to reduce pain, muscle spasms, and improve range of motion.  Other techniques include the use of an instrument, a movable table, or other low-force techniques, depending on the comfort of the patient.

How long will it take to feel better?

This is not an easy question to answer due to the variety of injuries and severity.  Most people notice immediate relief following their first treatment, with residual soreness a few hours later.  This relief lasts longer as treatment progresses and post-treatment soreness disappears. For tougher cases, relief is generally achieved within 4-8 treatments.  Once you are out of pain, we discuss a new phase of care, less frequently, to keep the pain from coming back in the future.

 What is IASTM?

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Massage (IASTM) is a form of treatment used for soft tissue injuries.  The purpose of this treatment is to eliminate scar tissue to trigger a healing response in a specific area.  By disrupting the scar tissue, the body can heal an injury with stronger, more flexible tissues that normally exists in that area as opposed to scar tissue. Using a specialized tool (Z-Tool) to identify and treat soft tissue injuries allows for quick, precise, and effective treatments.

 Does IASTM Hurt?

The purpose of IASTM is to trigger local inflammation, so the first few treatments may be uncomfortable.  IASTM can be compared to a deep tissue massage as it “hurts good”.  There is typically some redness and slight swelling following the treatment that is temporary.  Bruising may occur in those taking blood thinning medications/supplements.

 What is the “popping/cracking” noise?

When an adjustment is given, most of the time there is an audible popping noise.  This noise is called a cavitation.  The adjustment causes a pressure change within a joint that can cause gas to form a bubble in the joint space, it can be loud in some people and non-existent in others. It is most definitely NOT bones rubbing together or breaking.

 Can I adjust myself?

No. Some people may make their joints “pop” and think they’ve made an adjustment. Most times the joint that pops when you “self-adjust” is the one that is moving too much, not the one that is restricted and really needs it. Damage can occur by “self adjusting” a joint with weakened muscles and ligaments. Adjustments are specific and require the skill of an experienced chiropractor to administer. 

What if I do not respond to chiropractic?

The consultation and examination are necessary to determine if chiropractic care can help your condition.  We offer several different treatment modalities and techniques to choose from and get results. If not, you may be referred to another specialist who will be able to help. In any event, your health and recovery are our primary goal.