Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chiropractic?
The Clinic Science of Chiropractic emphasizes the relationship between structure, primarily of the spinal column and the nervous system, and how that relationship affects function and health. Implicit within this statement is the significance of the nervous system to health and the effect of the subluxation complex upon the nervous system and, therefore, the body. (Reference: Palmer Chiropractic University System.)
The Practice of Chiropractic: "The legislature finds that Chiropractic is a separate and distinct branch of the healing arts and that Doctors of Chiropractic are skilled and highly trained primary health care providers deserving of the same degree of responsibility, authority, and respect as other health care professionals." (Reference: Fifteenth Legislature of the State of Alaska (1988).)
What are the qualifications and training for practicing Chiropractic?
In order to become a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic, an individual must meet stringent academic, professional and state requirements, which generally include passing nationally standardized examinations. Currently, an individual must complete the following four major steps in order to become a licensed chiropractor:
1. Complete two or more years of general college-level studies. (Bachelor degree required by some states.)
2. Obtain a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and complete a clinical externship through an accredited four-year chiropractic college program.
3. Pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners and/or other state-required examinations.
4. Satisfy any other individual state-specific requirements for licensure.
Government inquiries, as well as independent investigations, have affirmed that todays chiropractic academic training is of equivalent standard to medical training in all pre-clinical subjects. (Reference: National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.)
Can you help me?
The scientific literature is consistent in reporting substantial evidence that chiropractic treatment is effective for both acute and chronic Low-Back and Neck conditions. Many other studies reported findings indicating the effectiveness of chiropractic care for conditions other than Low-Back and Neck Pain including: Headache Pain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Infantile Colic. (Reference: National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.)
Please call (907) 561-1222 and schedule a free consultation with one of our doctors to determine if Chiropractic care is likely to benefit you.
Can I be seen today?
We offer "same day appointments". Five highly qualified, experienced and licensed Doctors of Chiropractic are on staff to serve your healthcare needs.
What can I expect on my first visit?
You will be greeted by a friendly receptionist and be requested to complete an entrance case history. This will enable your doctor to fully understand your current health care needs and medical history. This will take only a short time. The doctor will then consult with you privately in a warm, comfortable and professional setting. (Our doctors are trained to be sensitive and compassionate as well as being good listeners.) Based upon the doctors recommendation following the consultation, an examination and/or x-ray study will be performed, if necessary. You and your doctor will review the preliminary findings. You will then be treated using Chiropractic Adjustments and physical therapy modalities, if necessary, in an attempt to reduce your pain and discomfort and to speed up the process of recovery. Please, also be assured that your doctor will promptly refer you to another qualified physician if we cannot help you.
How long will it take to get well?
There is no definite answer to this question since every case is different. The doctors of the Ireland Clinic, based upon their experience of treating similar health related concerns, will be able to give you an estimate of the time it will take to expect results. How long will it take to actually "get well" depends upon many important factors, such as: lifestyle, weight, age, duration of the condition, living habits, occupation, genetics, attitude, and, of course, your co-operation. Your Doctor of Chiropractic will suggest a program designed to get you well in the shortest possible time, and then show you how to stay that way.
Will it hurt?
Generally, Chiropractic Adjustments help to reduce pain and are therefore not considered painful in application. Certain reactions may be experienced, the most common being the aching or soreness in the spinal joints or muscles. However, all of our doctors and clinical assistants strive to be sensitive to patient needs and to provide gentle and personalized care.
What is the cost?
Most research studies on the cost-effectiveness of Chiropractic clearly indicate that Chiropractic is more cost-effective than other treatment options. Our affordable fees at the Ireland Clinic are within the "usual, customary and reasonable" guidelines for the Anchorage area. We accept and bill directly to personal health insurance, workers' compensation (on-the-job injury) and personal injury (auto accident) insurance. We accept most major credit cards as well as offering personalized payment arrangements when necessary.
Is Chiropractic care safe?
Chiropractic care is safer than back surgery, muscle relaxers and even common aspirin! Chiropractic has an excellent safety record. It is primarily the result of a natural, conservative approach to health that avoids the use of drugs and surgery.
Will I need to keep coming back?
This depends upon whether the condition is acute (recent) or chronic (long standing).
Many spinal problems are actually caused in early childhood and then are further complicated by the falls, jolts and other injuries incurred during the ongoing life experience. These early injuries, therefore, set the clock in motion and then influence the recovery rate of recent trauma. With this knowledge, it is easy to understand why it sometimes takes three weeks of care to benefit a chronic spinal condition that has actually existed for 30 years! To clarify why it takes time and repeat visits to correct chronic spinal conditions, consider orthodontic care. It takes time and braces (impulse force) to align teeth. In a similar manner, it takes time and Chiropractic Adjustments (direct force) to align the spine.
How long will I need Chiropractic care?
After initial corrective spinal care we recommend ongoing periodic chiropractic check-ups, which typically vary from monthly to annually depending upon the patient. Life is a continuum; and we are, therefore, confronted with daily micro-traumas and stress, all the way from slipping on the ice and gardening, to macro-traumas sometimes associated with substantial tissue damage as a consequence of auto accidents and on-the-job injuries. When thinking of the need for periodic chiropractic check-ups, think about why brushing and flossing help to prevent tooth decay (cavities) and why getting regular exercise and eating wholesome foods is part of a healthy lifestyle.
Will you refer me if you are unable to help me?
Absolutely! We accept only those cases that we believe will be benefited by chiropractic care. All other cases will be promptly referred to another competent, licensed health care provider or medical specialist.
