How do I know what type of therapy is appropriate for my condition?
We know that chiropractic has been proven to be more effective than acupuncture and physical therapy for certain types of musculoskeletal pain.
>> View PDF of article comparing chiropractic, physical therapy and acupuncture
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What is a subluxation?
Subluxations are problem areas of your spine that affect your entire nervous system. In these problem areas, the spinal bones (vertebrae) are misaligned or have lost their normal range of movement. This irritates or puts pressure on local nerves, which alters the communication between your Central Nervous System and Sympathetic Nervous System. It may also involve your muscles, discs, ligaments, tendons and other body parts as well.
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How does one develop these vertebral misalignments or subluxations?
Life can cause subluxations. Yard work, home renovations, prolonged deskwork, improper lifting, or even sleeping on the couch, can cause spinal stress. So can falls, accidents (especially car accidents), sports activities and injuries, even in the absence of symptoms.
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Subluxation Signs and Symptoms
Check to see if you have any of the following symptoms, which may indicate pinched or irritated nerves in the different areas of the spine:
- Upper neck
- Headaches
- Periods of mental fogginess
- Difficulty concentrating
- Vertigo
- Jaw (TMJ) problems or pain
- Lower neck
- Neck pain or discomfort
- Neck stiff / catch or pulling in neck and/or upper back
- Neck clicking / popping / grinding
- Neck / shoulder muscle tension
- Arms / hands / fingers falling asleep / numbness/tingling
- Pins and needles in the hands or wrists
- Pinching or pain radiating into shoulder, arms and hands
- Mid back
- Midback pain / Pain between the shoulder blades
- Rib pain / pain radiating out from the spine or between the shoulder blades that becomes more intense with deep inhalation
- Pain under the shoulder blade
- Sleeping difficulties / feeling restless
- Breathing restriction / chest tightening
- Fatigue
- Lower back
- Pain and/or stiffness/muscle spasm low in the back
- Sciatica / pain radiating into the buttock area
- Sciatica / pain radiating into hamstrings, calf or foot
- Sciatica / burning pain or numbness in the buttocks, which may worsen with prolonged sitting
- Buttock, leg and/or foot falling asleep/numbness/tingling
- Knees popping / knees or ankles giving out unexpectedly
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Are X-rays required for my care?
It depends upon your symptoms, age, severity and duration of pain.
“Early or frequent use of imaging (plain film (X-rays), MRI, CT) is discouraged because degenerated, bulging, and herniated discs are frequently accidental findings, even among patients with Low Back Pain (LBP) and may mislead to over-diagnosis, anxiety, dependence on medical care, conviction about the presence of disease & unnecessary test or treatments.” Deyo, MD, MPH, Weinstein, DO. “Low back pain”. New England Journal of Medicine. 2001; 344(5):363-369.
When diagnostic testing is required, patients are referred to Washington Radiology & Associates or Progressive Radiology at Foxhall MRI.
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Is chiropractic care covered by insurance?
Yes, with most insurance policies chiropractic is at least partially, if not fully, covered. Please check with Dr. Hopson, who can confirm your policy’s benefits with your insurance provider. FSA (Flexible spending accounts) can also be utilized for chiropractic care.
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Is a referral required for chiropractic care?
MD referrals for referrals to specialists are only required by HMOs. Dr. Hopson is not a provider with HMO plans, however she does work closely with other healthcare providers.
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I have tried Chiropractic and my results were not as favorable as I had anticipated, why?
If you avoided the activities that were causing the problem, had more than two chiropractic sessions and performed the recommended stretching and strengthening exercises, there could be additional problems that your chiropractor can help you identify: 1) foot and ankle instability, grinding your teeth or shoulder misalignment 2) Nutritional deficiencies link to diagnostic testing 3) Regular consumption of food that cause a delayed hypersensitivity reaction and creates low levels of inflammation link to diagnostic testing 4) Emotional stress
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Why does it take more than one adjustment to correct the problem?
What you do every day determines the condition of your musculo-skeletal system. Your body responds to how it is trained. People develop muscular imbalances that stress their spine and nervous system because they are engaging in activities that alter normal spinal biomechanics. You and your muscles and ligaments must be retrained so that the spine is not only flexible, but also stable.
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Is chiropractic recommended for expectant mothers?
Yes, treatment is adjusted for each patient’s complaint and stage of pregnancy. A special table is utilized with a collapsible section for the baby so that the mother can lie on her abdomen comfortably if she desires. In fact, in most cases, women find that having chiropractic treatment during pregnancy actually facilitates childbirth.
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If I begin chiropractic care, do I need to continue treatment for the rest of my life?
Some patients come only for treatment of acute symptoms, but others recognize the benefits as part of a healthy lifestyle like exercising at the gym, practicing yoga or meditating. While chiropractic care can treat acute pain such as neck or back pain, it is also a very effective preventative therapy. Visiting your chiropractor regularly, before you experience acute pain, supports the body's optimal health.
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Can I adjust myself?
It is possible to twist or bend in certain ways that create a "popping" sound that sometimes accompanies a chiropractic adjustment. Unfortunately, this type of joint manipulation is usually counterproductive. Normally these joints move so freely because other areas of the spine are fixed or have limited mobility. Adjusting the spine is not for amateurs or individuals who have taken a weekend course. There is a reason chiropractic school has a four year curriculum and requires 350 patient visits before graduation.
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Did you know that Doctors of Chiropractic have been to chiropractic school for a minimum of four years?
Chiropractors actually complete more coursework in anatomy and physiology than most medical doctors. After receiving a degree from an accredited chiropractic college, all chiropractors must pass a series of National Board Exams and state licensing exams for each state in which they practice. Additionally most doctors complete regular postgraduate instruction for license renewal and to remain current on the latest research and adjusting techniques.
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Does a chiropractor need a license to practice?
Yes, all chiropractors must be licensed by the state in which they practice. Dr. Hopson is licensed in Maryland, DC, and Virginia.
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Could yoga practice and weight lifting cause musculo-skeletal pain and possible injury?
Yes, especially if the individual has altered spinal biomechanics. Conversely, weight lifting and yoga practice could also diminish certain pain and symptoms. Knowing what is appropriate for your body is the key. (link to yoga posture assessment)
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Is chiropractic care addictive?
This question is never asked about massage therapy. It is possible to gain greater awareness of feeling more balanced, less stressed, and more energetic as a result or regular chiropractic care. Chiropractic is not addictive, however, good health can be.
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How often should I have chiropractic care?
Going to a chiropractor is much like going to the dentist, exercising at a gym, or eating a healthy diet: As long as you keep it up, you continue to enjoy the benefits. Most people don’t wait until they are obese before they think about exercising. It is important to remember that, just like your teeth, your spine experiences normal wear and tear as you walk, drive, sit, lift, sleep, and bend. Routine chiropractic care can help you feel better, move with greater freedom, and stay healthier throughout your lifetime. Although you can enjoy the benefits of chiropractic care even if you receive care for a short time, the real benefits come into play when you make chiropractic care a part of your wellness lifestyle.
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