A chiropractic examination is the only way to determine the presence, location, and severity of subluxations. Posture, range of motion, a spinal exam, and x-rays if necessary are the tools we use. You can have subluxations and not even know it. Like the early stages of tooth decay or cancer, subluxations can be present before warning signs appear.

X-rays can be helpful, but are not required in every patient’s case. Pictures of your spine, especially after trauma, can confirm other findings and make your care more precise. They also show us how much degeneration or decay is present. We will determine if X-rays are necessary once we review your health history and examine your spine. Our office only takes those X-rays which are absolutely necessary.

Sometimes. Today’s hectic lifestyles are a constant source of subluxations. Fortunately, our bodies have the ability to self-correct many of these problems as well as we bend and stretch, or when we sleep at night. When subluxations don’t resolve, you need to see a doctor of chiropractic.

Chiropractic adjustments usually involve a quick thrust that helps add motion to spinal joints that aren’t moving properly. Dr, Erin has mastered 5 different chiropractic techniques to find an adjustment style that is both appropriate and comfortable to the patient. Some methods use the doctor’s hands, one of several instruments, a special drop table and the force of gravity.

Under normal circumstances, chiropractic adjustments are painless. In cases of recent trauma, such as whiplash, mild discomfort may be experienced due to inflammation. It is also common to feel a brief sensation in the extremities immediately following an adjustment due to the sudden decompression of the affected nerve root.

Important note to new patients: Awkward and uncomfortable symptoms can be present in the first two to six weeks of care, particularly in the case of patients who have never been adjusted, or suffer from chronic conditions. We recommend an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes.

Dr. Erin has extensive training in the Webster’s Technique, Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP), Torque Release Technique (TRT), Thompson Technique, and manual (diversified) technique.

Yes. A New Zealand government study found that adjustments are “remarkably safe.” By avoiding drugs and risky surgery, chiropractic care enjoys an excellent track record.

No. Each patient’s care is custom-tailored for their age, condition and health goals. Please let the doctor know if you have any technique or adjustment style preference.

If we’re unable to locate and correct the cause of your particular health problem, we will refer you to other practitioners who may be able to help.

Some patients experience almost instant relief. Others discover it can take many weeks or months. Many factors can affect the healing process, including:

• The severity of the structural misalignments causing your problem.
• How long you have had them.
• How rapidly your body responds to chiropractic care, influenced by age, mental attitude, elasticity of the muscles and ligaments
• Your diet and inflammation levels
• Your ability to avoid additional stress and strain while your body is healing.

After symptomatic patients get the relief they seek, many choose to continue with some type of periodic care. These patients show up for their visits feeling great. These visits can help support the final stages of healing and help detect and resolve new problems before they become serious. Our job is to offer the very best care and your job is to decide how much of it you want.

Yes. Rest assured that we will avoid the surgically modified areas of your spine. Surgery often causes instability above or below the involved level. These areas will be the focus of your chiropractic care.

Of course. When developing a care plan, we consider the unique circumstances of each patient. There are many ways to adjust the spine. The method selected will be best suited to your age, size and condition.

Absolutely not. Doctors of Chiropractic are primary health care providers, meaning you do not need a referral. If yours is not a Chiropractic case, a responsible Chiropractor will refer you to the appropriate health care provider.

Insurance coverage varies for chiropractic care. Each individual’s deductible, co-pay and percent coverage will determine the extent of coverage. However, most have a limit on what they will pay, and do not pay for full corrective care programs.

In our NE Minneapolis office, we do not base your care plan on your availability of insurance, but offer affordable plans for everyone regardless of insurance coverage.