Frequently Asked Questions
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Once accepted into a chiropractic program, the chiropractic student is met with a challenging curriculum that includes a minimum of 4200 classroom hours/laboratory hours as well as 555 hours of adjusting technique and spinal analysis. A Chiropractic program consists of five academic years of professional education at an accredited college. Each graduate is expected to acquire an extensive knowledge of human anatomy in order to understand the biomechanics of the skeletal system and identify dysfunction when it occurs. The delicacy of the spinal cord makes this concept even more complicated. Because the spinal column houses the spinal cord, these restrictions can cause impingement of the exiting neurologic structures. It is therefore extremely important to be familiar with the intricacy of such structures and how they will affect the patient's daily activities if compromised. In addition to understanding the biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system, a chiropractic student must learn to identify internal disease processes that can hinder total body wellness. Therefore, the training is focused primarily on human anatomy and physiology, but also includes an in depth analysis of pathology and microbiology.
Results are typically seen within the first 2-6 treatments. Several variables will affect how quickly the body heals including length of injury and severity of injury. Following examination and diagnosis, Dr. Eaton will give each patient a timetable for healing and rehabilitation so that the patient understands what to expect from the treatment.
The new patient visit will last approximately 30 minutes. This visit will include a thorough history of the chief complaint and will include relevant family history. Treatment will be administered on the first visit. Each subsequent visit will last between 15-20 minutes. If myofascial therapy is administered, Dr. Eaton will inform the patient ahead of time so that extra time can be scheduled by both the patient and the doctor.
Many patients find that they experience significant relief and reduction in symptoms after they begin chiropractic care. Once these symptoms are resolved, patients occasionally chose to adopt a maintenance schedule in order to maintain these results. Maintenance care is the choice of each patient but is not essential for optimal results.
A spinal adjustment is typically not painful. Tolerance testing is done prior to each adjustment in order to ensure that the patient is comfortable. Dr. Eaton prides herself on communicating effectively with each patient so that they understand the treatment and expected results.
Dr. Eaton is credentialed with most major insurance companies, and most patients find that they do have coverage for chiropractic manipulation and massage therapy. Exact coverage depends on your carrier and your particular plan at the time of service. Our front desk staff would be happy to answer any questions regarding coverage or out of pocket costs.
Absolutely! Treatment will depend on history and examination. If additional diagnostic testing is required prior to administering therapy, Dr. Eaton will make arrangements to obtain such results in order to get treatment started as soon as possible.
Absolutely not. Many chiropractors obtain full spine X-rays on each new patient that enters the clinic. X-ray studies give very limited information and only give us a static picture of the spine. Chiropractic medicine is based on function and movement, neither of which is visible on a film. X-ray studies should only be ordered by your doctor if there is clinical evidence to justify such imaging.
