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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Chiropractic and what can it do for me?
About Chiropractic
Q. What is that popping sound when I get adjusted? A. The popping sound is caused by gas bubbles (mostly
carbon dioxide) being released from within the joint fluid during what's called a cavitation (slight separation)
of the joint. Most people falsely believe that the "bones are getting smashed together" during an adjustment,
however, they're actually separating slightly causing a slight change in pressure within the joint space.
Q. Will the Adjustment Hurt? A. Most people do not experience any soreness after an adjustment, and in
fact, many feel instantly better. However, some people occasionally feel some slight soreness after a treatment, especially
if it's a long standing problem. The soreness is similar to how it feels the next day after a workout, and is short-lived.
Also, you do not have to get adjusted in our office if you choose not to. Dr. Grosman will use other techniques
to help you get better.
Q. What does an adjustment actually do? A. An adjustment helps to restore the normal
range of motion to a fixated or "stuck" joint. This in turn helps to relieve the pain and stiffness associated
with that fixated joint. When a joint is not moving as well as it should be, it is painful. When a joint is painful, it sends
signals to the brain, which in turn tells all the local muscles around that joint to tighten or spasm. The adjustment gets
the joint functioning properly which will decrease the pain coming from the joint and thus reduce the localized pain and spasm.
Q. Will cracking my knuckles give me arthritis? A. No. Unless you are one of those people who cracks their
knuckles hundreds of times a day. If you only do it once in awhile, then it may actually be beneficial because it keeps
the joints mobile.
Q. Heat or Ice? A. The general rule of thumb is Ice for 24-48
hours after an injury, then Heat. However, what I tell patients is: Do whatever feels good for you at that time. You
may even try alternating between ice and heat. However, whichever one you choose, no longer than 20 minutes on at a time,
with 30-45 minutes break in between, otherwise you may end up with a burn or frostbite.
Q. Which type of pillow is best? A. The answer is whichever one fits you best. There is no magic pillow for everyone,
but there may be a magic one for you. Unfortunately, you have to experiment a little until you find the right one. I recommend
starting with an inexpensive one and working your way up. Ideally, a good pillow should keep your head in neutral whether
you're on your back or side, not too high and not too low. And always try to avoid sleeping on your stomach, your back and
neck do not appreciate it.
Q. Which type of mattress is best? A. See above! Again, there is no magic mattress,
only one that works best for you. Some people like the memory foam ones and others hate them. Some like firm ones and others
prefer soft. The studies show that of the conventional type spring mattresses, a firm support with a pillow top seems to be
the most preferred. Again, to each their own, but make sure there is a trial period so that you can return it and get your
money back.
Q. What should I do if my back goes out? A. Call me! But in the meantime, Move,
Move, Move. Movement will help promote the healing, even if it's only a little bit of movement. Do not just sit there
or lie there waiting for the pain to go away, it will only get worse. That doesn't mean go run a marathon, but it does
mean move more than not. Move as much as your body will let you and stop when it tells you to stop, honor the body.
Q. What other treatments do you offer in the office? A. In addition to chiropractic manipulation, we also
offer massage therapy from licensed massage therapists, pilates from a certified instructor, nutritional assistance from a
licensed pharmacist/clinical nutritionist for healing and prevention.
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