What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts based upon the understanding that good health depends, in part, upon a normally functioning nervous system (especially the spine, and the nerves extending from the spine to all parts of the body). "Chiropractic" comes from the Greek word chiropraktikos, meaning "effective treatment by hand." Chiropractic stresses the idea that the cause of many disease processes begins with the body's inability to adapt to its environment. It looks to address these diseases not by the use of drugs and chemicals, but by locating and adjusting a musculoskeletal area of the body which is improperly aligned.

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is the use of a specific force applied in a precise direction to a joint that is fixated, "locked-up" or not moving properly. Adjustments help to return the bones to normal position and motion. This helps to normalize spinal function and avoid bone and soft tissue degeneration. Adjustments often relieve painful symptoms. However, the main purpose of an adjustment is to restore the proper structure and function of the spine and joints, thus allowing the nervous system to communicate effectively.

Does Chiropractic hurt?

Under normal circumstances, adjustments do not hurt. Occasionally, a patient may feel a minor amount of discomfort during the adjustment which lasts only a few seconds. At Caputo Chiropractic we focus on the use of low force, gentle techniques, and in particular, the Activator Method. We determine what technique fits each particular person. Most of our patients can not wait until their next treatment!

What is the Activator Method?

Evolved from 35 years of empirical study and 15 years of clinical research, the Activator Methods Chiropractic Technique (AMCT) uses the latest advances in orthopedic, neurological and chiropractic examinations to seek joint dysfunction in the spinal column and extremities for improved patient care. AMCT uses the Activator Adjusting Instrument to give consistent low-force, high-speed chiropractic adjustments. Over 35,000 doctors have been trained in AMCT and 2,100 doctors are Proficiency Rated, making AMCT the most widely used technique worldwide; a testament to low force patient satisfaction. Read more about the Activator Method

Is Chiropractic safe?

YES! Tens of millions of patients - from infants to the elderly - enjoy the health benefits of chiropractic care each year. That's why chiropractors have one of the lowest malpractice insurance rates of all physician specialties - because it's safe!

What conditions benefit from chiropractic care?

Although chiropractic is used most frequently to relieve low back pain, studies have found it to be effective for a variety of conditions, such as migraine headaches, neck and shoulder pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and infantile colic, to name just a few.

What kind of education and training do doctors of chiropractic have?

Chiropractors receive an education that emphasizes neuromuscular diagnosis and treatment. Preparation for the practice of chiropractic is concentrated on three areas of learning; basic training in the biological and health sciences (anatomy, physiology, histology, biochemistry, clinical and radiological diagnosis); specialized training in the chiropractic discipline (theoretical studies, practice, diagnosis and applications); and extensive clinical training. This is a four-year academic program leading to a doctorate of chiropractic or D.C. degree.

Have any studies been published showing what chiropractic is effective for?

Several studies have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in relieving back pain. More recent studies have shown chiropractic to be effective in treating infantile colic and migraine headaches. You'll also find people at the chiropractor for more energy; health maintenance and enhancement; increased relaxation; and greater life enjoyment.

What can I expect on my first visit?

The first thing we will do is ask you about the health complaints you are chiefly concerned about. We will also ask about your family history, dietary habits, other care you may have had (chiropractic, osteopathic, medical, etc.), your job, and other questions designed to help determine the nature of your illness and the best way to go about treating the problem.

A physical examination will be performed in accordance with the doctor's clinical judgement, which may include x-rays, laboratory analysis and other diagnostic procedures. In addition, a careful spinal examination and analysis will be performed to detect any structural abnormalities which may be affecting or causing your condition. All of these elements are important components of your total health profile, and vital to evaluating your problem so we can best determine the right course of treatment.

What other services do you offer besides chiropractic?

Our office offers a variety of other services such as; ultrasoud therapy, electrical muscle stimulation therapy, intersegmental mechanical traction, therapeutic exercise programs and massage therapy.