What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is the third-largest doctoral-level health care profession in the western world, after medicine and dentistry. Its approach to human health is based on the premise that the relationship between structure and function in the human body is a significant health factor and that relationships between the spinal column and the nervous system are important to the health and well-being of the individual.

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is the art of using a specific force in a precise direction, applied to a joint that is subluxated, “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. There are multiple techniques that our office will use to correct these misalignments. The technique is determined based on an individual patient’s needs – our chiropractor is dedicated to creating a unique care plan to fit each patient’s unique needs.

Can I adjust myself?

No. If you feel like you need to constantly “crack your own back,” this is an early warning sign of a spinal problem. Since a chiropractic adjustment is a specific force, applied in a specific direction to a specific joint, it is virtually impossible to adjust yourself correctly and accurately. It is possible to turn or bend or twist in certain ways to create a “popping” sound that sometimes accompanies a chiropractic adjustment. Unfortunately, this type of joint manipulation is usually counterproductive, often making an already unstable spine even more unstable, and can sometimes be dangerous. You should only allow a licensed chiropractor to adjust you.

Are chiropractic adjustments safe?

Yes. A New Zealand government inquiry found that chiropractic adjustments are “remarkably safe.” In fact, adjustments are about 100 times safer than taking a common over-the-counter pain reliever. The chiropractic approach uses conservative and natural solutions to reduce the chance or need of more invasive, dangerous, and costly treatments like drugs or surgery. A good example of how safe chiropractic is compared to medical treatment is the malpractice costs. The malpractice rates for a chiropractor are a small fraction of the rates charged to medical doctors.

Does an adjustment hurt?

Many people are fearful that the treatment is painful or will cause harm. In reality, most patients find that the adjustment actually are very gentle and feel good. In many cases, it brings immediate pain relief. We are making changes within the body, and a few patients report slight soreness in the treated muscles or joints. These are considered “normal reactions” and generally disappear within 12-24 hours after the chiropractic treatment.

Can a person who had back surgery see a chiropractor?

Yes. It’s an unfortunate fact that half or more of patients who had spinal surgery discover a return of their original symptoms months or years later. They then face the prospect of additional surgery due to the permanent change the surgery created in the spine. This too-common occurrence is know as “Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.” A chiropractor may help prevent repeated back surgeries by reducing/correcting misalignments and restrictions in the spine. In fact, if the patient sees a chiropractor from the start, back surgery can often be avoided in the first place.

Do you work with medical doctors and physical therapists?

At Quad Cities Wellness Group we encourage the cooperation between multiple disciplines in your care. We are open to working directly with many of the Quad Cities medical professionals to improve the care and well being of our patients. This synergistic relationship will also allow you to get to your optimal health potential.

Which problems are most commonly treated by chiropractic?

The most common conditions treated by a chiropractor are hip pain, low back pain, sciatica, neck pain, headaches and other joint pains. Other conditions often seen include shoulder pain, elbow pain, wrist pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, knee pain, ankle pain, foot pain, tendonitis, and many forms of sprains and strains. Though the primary reason one might consult a chiropractor is pain, chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat a great deal more than just neuromusculoskeletal disorders.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, our office is in-network (PPO) with nearly all major insurance companies.  Some examples include: United Health Care, Blue Cross/Blue Shireld, and Aetna.

Do we accept Medicare and Medicaid?

We accept both Medicare and Medicaid.

If I have a high-deductible insurance plan, have no insurance coverage or choose not to use insurance, can I still receive affordable care?

Yes!! Quad Cities Wellness Group provides great “time of service” discounts, which make treatments very affordable.

Do I need a referral from a physician or my insurance company?

Chiropractors are considered a PCP or “primary care physician” and generally do not need a referral unless your insurance company specifically requires one. If you have questions regarding your specific insurance requirements please contact our office directly, and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.