Common Questions

Is it true that once you start chiropractic care, you’ll have to keep going for the rest of your life?
No. A well balanced treatment plan can not only help to bring you to a point of pain free activity, but show you how to keep yourself pain free through preventative stretching, strengthening and nutritional awareness. You may very likely end up deciding to continue receiving chiropractic care due to the improved mobility and wellness benefits it can impart, but that is a decision you make for yourself. When you need us, we'll be here.

When chiropractors crack your back, are they really cracking my bones?
 No. What you’re actually hearing is a shifting of gases in the joint fluids, a process called “cavitation”, which helps to release pressure build up in joints and surrounding nerves and tissues. This “popping” or “cracking” sound is the single most commonly recognized aspect of Chiropractic adjustments, but not everyone experiences it during their adjustments.

Will I have to get XRays?
Not necessarily. Although many Chiropractors advertise XRay images as a customary part of a new patient package, they are quite often unnecessary and costly additions that don't end up making an impact on the type of care that you receive. Whether or not you will need xrays will be dependent upon a large number of factors including but not limited to your previous and current medical history, mechanism of injury, extent of symptoms, and examination results. Xrays only show bone, not soft tissues such as ligaments or nerves. So, if your condition indicates that you need some type of diagnostic imaging such as XRays, MRI, or any other type for that matter, we'll do what it takes to be sure you get them. If you don't, don't worry; we're not about to send you to get radiated just for the fun of getting a cool picture.

I hate exercise. Am I going to have to do any?
Ok, so we can’t force you, but why should you? Stretching and strengthening of the musculoskeletal system help to develop “muscle memory”. No, it's not always fun or easy, but it is the best path to find relief. As we work to restore the balance between areas of your body, the less pain, injury and discomfort you’ll experience.

What is Active Release Technique, or “ART” work?
Also referred to as “ART,” Active Release Technique is a patented, soft tissue system/movement based technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. True ART providers have been specially trained, tested and certified to treat abnormal tissues by combining precisely directed tension with very specific patient movements. Dr. Katrina has been trained and certified in Upper Body and Spinal Active Release Techniques.

What causes the painful “knots” in my muscles? Is it bad for me if I just ignore them?
Numerous factors can cause your body to produce tough, dense scar tissue in the affected area. This scar tissue binds up and ties down tissues that need to move freely. As scar tissue continues to build, muscles become shorter and weaker, tension on tendons causes tendonitis, and nerves can become trapped. This can cause reduced range of motion, loss of strength, and pain. When this happens, you may also feel tingling, numbness, and weakness.

Is there a difference between regular blood tests, and functional metabolic blood testing?
The blood tests performed in routine annual physical examinations typically include a number of standard tests, and are looking for extreme highs and lows where the body already has developed impairment. “Functional” testing also includes detailed questionnaires to see if additional testing is needed. When results are received, we look at smaller ranges to determine how well organ systems are functioning  together. This method can also help to identify, treat and prevent further deficiencies or metabolic impairments using integrative nutritional protocols specific for each individuals’ needs.

I’ve heard that chiropractors hate medical doctors, and have heard a lot of medical doctors tell me that chiropractors are quacks. Why?
Just has there are a lot of bad mechanics, there can be a lot of bad chiropractors out there. However, there are also a lot of good ones! Typically, this unfortunate misunderstanding evolves due to a lack of understanding of what each treating doctor is best capable of performing. Chiropractors undergo extensive training with many of the same courses and number of hours of training as most general medical physicians receive. Diversified Sports Chiropractors specialize in the treatment of musculoskeletal pathologies, rehabilitation, radiology and acute injury management. For a breakdown comparison of the 4 year chiropractic doctorate program, visit www.acatoday.org. 
At Action Sports Chiropractic & Rehabilitation, we’re happy to work with you and your physician. We also have a wide network of health care providers including acupuncturists, podiatrists, orthopedic and spinal surgeons, rheumatologists and others that we'll be happy to refer you to for the best possible co-management of your condition, if needed.

Will you fix me right away?
Unfortunately, there are no "quick fixes" when it comes to health and injuries. Although most patients notice a significant improvement in their condition even after just one visit, it generally takes a few sessions in order to sufficiantly affect and address the root causes of pain and other symptoms you might be experiencing. The body is an amazing creation, and holds an astounding ability to heal when provided the right tools and attention. However, keep in mind that the worse an injury gets, or the longer you wait to get assistance in improving your conditions, the longer it may likewise take for it to heal. Pain is never "normal", so don't wait until you "can't take it anymore"!

For more tips and answers, check out the following insightful resources:
www.ActiveRelease.com
www.ACAToday.org
www.ActionSportsChiropractic.com