Chiropractor Baltimore, MD
If you are experiencing pain, consider seeking help from a Baltimore, MD chiropractor. When you are visiting any business person, you want to ensure they have the experience and qualifications necessary to handle your problems and questions. The same is true for healthcare professional. Often when people hear about visiting chiropractors, they typically think that these are people who are very skilled in cracking backs but it likely won’t do much for your overall health. However, common myths and stigmas surrounding chiropractors will often lead people to avoid them altogether when they could come away from these appointments feeling much healthier. Below, the team at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic has compiled a list of different myths regarding chiropractors, as well as information on how a Baltimore, Maryland chiropractor can help you with your symptoms and pain. For more information or to set up an appointment, please reach out to our office today.
Table Of Contents
- 4 Myths About Chiropractor
- How To Choose A Chiropractor
- Time Concerns With Chiropractic Treatment
- Who Can Benefit From Chiropractic Treatment
- 4 Things To Know Before Your Chiropractic Appointment
- Chiropractor Baltimore Infographic
- Important Qualities To Look For In A Chiropractor
- What Can A Chiropractor Do For Me?
- Why Do People Experience Hip Pain?
4 Myths About Chiropractor
MYTH #1. CHIROPRACTORS DO NOT NEED SPECIALIZED TRAINING OR CERTIFICATIONS.
This is false, and it is important to remember that if you do go to a chiropractor’s office and they have no training, education, or certifications to show, you should leave immediately. When it comes to their education, many chiropractors have some type of four-year undergraduate degree, often graduating in a pre-med major. While not all chiropractors hold a medical degree, they are licensed practitioners and may have a certain number of years in residency and some of them may even hold a medical degree, though it is not required. Additionally, when someone is training to become a chiropractor, they must pass the state licensing board exam in the United States. They can also train in certain specialties, including acupuncture, sports nutrition, and rehabilitation.
MYTH #2. CHIROPRACTIC CARE IS JUST A BUNCH OF HOCUS POCUS.
The common thought process here is that a Baltimore, MD chiropractor gets paid to crack a person’s back and joints. However, there is a science to the spinal manipulation that they do on a daily basis and the chiropractor will need specialized knowledge of the human anatomy to perform these types of treatments.
MYTH #3. THE ONLY PEOPLE WHO BENEFIT HAVE BACK PROBLEMS.
This is another common problem when it comes to what people think Baltimore chiropractors can treat. However, chiropractors have developed many different kinds of treatments that can help with pain all over your body, including your neck, your foot, and even your elbow. Many other people go to chiropractors’ offices to get help for pregnancy-related pain as well as headaches and migraines.
MYTH #4. CHIROPRACTIC CARE IS NOT SAFE.
This too is another reason that many people do not feel comfortable visiting a Baltimore, MD chiropractor. However, chiropractic care has been proven to be safe for adults, pregnant women, and even for children. While it is safe for the majority of people who use it, certain people should avoid these types of treatments, especially if they suffer from:
- Broken or fractured bones
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Nervous System Infections
How To Choose a Chiropractor
Get Recommendations
The first step to choosing a chiropractor in Baltimore, MD, is to ask your primary care physician, spine specialist, or physical therapist who they recommend. They may be able to provide you with a list of names. Asking these individuals will provide you with candidates that are professional and qualified. That said, remember that many medical professionals don’t regularly interact with chiropractors, so they may not be able to provide you with any recommendations.
Another option is to ask your neighbors, friends, and family for recommendations. While they may provide you with a few names, keep in mind that one person’s idea of a professional is not the same as everyone else’s. That’s why you’ll need to do further research on these recommendations so you can determine who meets your needs. For example, at Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, we recommend using one of our professionals who several individuals have recommended.
Interview Potential Candidates
Before you decide on a chiropractor in Baltimore, MD, you should have a phone or in-person consultation with your potential candidates. Generally, a chiropractor will recommend one of these options. Use this time to interview your chiropractors. The first thing to consider at this consultation is whether you feel comfortable with them.
There are a lot of different factors which can contribute to your experience. First, think about if you can talk to them openly. Then, think about whether they are friendly, answer your questions, listen, and how experienced they are. Finally, if you are looking for a specific type of treatment, see if they have specialized in this area. For example, athletes may want a chiropractor focusing on sports medicine.
Do Some Background Research
Finally, research to ensure no disciplinary actions are being taken against this chiropractor. Your state’s chiropractic licensing website will have this information. You should also check if the college they attended is an accredited university. At Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, we only hire professionals who have degrees from accredited universities.
Make a Decision
Remember, you don’t have to go with the first chiropractor you interview. Most people interview many professionals before making a decision. It would be best to choose the individual you feel can provide you with the care you need. It would be best if you never went to a chiropractor who you feel is pressuring you into a treatment plan that doesn’t fit your lifestyle.
Why Is My Back Out of Whack?
Everyone gets their back out of whack for a variety of reasons, including:
- Car crashes
- Use of electronics
- Physical activities such as sports or yard work
- Falls
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Stress
- Heavy lifting
- Work-related injuries
What Is a Chiropractic Adjustment?
Your chiropractor in Baltimore, MD, at Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic will perform an adjustment on your back to realign your vertebrae or treat subluxations. There are many varieties of adjustments your chiropractor may do, depending on your health needs. The purpose of a chiropractic adjustment is to get rid of interference in your nervous system to enhance your spine function and overall health.
What Are Subluxations?
A subluxation is a vertebra that’s out of place in relation to nearby vertebrae. It may cause functional issues and pain, and determines where the chiropractor in Baltimore, MD, will adjust your spine.
Will I Know if I Have a Subluxation?
You won’t necessarily know if you have a subluxation. Your chiropractor from Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic will use a variety of methods to determine if you have subluxations, where they are, and how to best proceed with an adjustment to correct them.
Will I Be Prescribed Any Medication for My Pain?
Your chiropractor in Baltimore, MD, relies on the body’s natural healing properties to relieve your back pain. She may recommend that you use ice for the first 24-48 hours after your pain starts, then either ice or moist heat after that, depending on which feels better to you.
Is It All Right To See a Chiropractor if I’m Pregnant?
It’s absolutely okay to see a chiropractor if you’re pregnant. Chiropractors are specially trained in techniques to use on pregnant women. Expectant mothers typically have less back pain after an adjustment. Regular chiropractic treatment during pregnancy can alleviate morning sickness and make labor go more quickly and easily.
Why Do Infants Get Adjustments?
Childbirth is a traumatic event, for both mother and baby. Some studies are showing that colic, ear infections, poor appetite and deficient sleep habits may be signs of spinal distress in babies. A gentle chiropractic adjustment may be all you need to have a happier, healthier baby.
Do Kids Need Chiropractic Care?
Kids run hard, play hard and fall hard, just by being kids. Your Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic chiropractor in Baltimore, MD, is trained in adjusting children to prevent future back problems that could arise from childhood trauma.
TIME CONCERNS WITH CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT
Receiving treatment for musculoskeletal complaints, such as back pain, with chiropractic adjustment doesn’t require as much of a time commitment as some other methods. For example, if you were to have open surgery on your back, you might require a hospital stay plus recovery time, during which you would need to stay home from work. Comparatively, the time you spend in chiropractic care is relatively small.
Nevertheless, time is a precious commodity, and it is reasonable to ask how much of an investment you will be asked to make in the process. The question can be answered in terms of how much time you will spend at each appointment and how long your treatment will endure.
LENGTH OF TIME PER APPOINTMENT
Generally speaking, you shouldn’t expect to spend much time at each appointment at all. Once you are an established patient, chiropractic appointments can often be completed within 10 to 15 minutes, although this will vary based on the specific treatment you receive. Be aware, also, that an initial consultation is likely to take longer, usually about half an hour.
Because chiropractic appointments do not take long, it should be fairly easy to fit them into your busy schedule. Some chiropractic clinics do not even require you to make an appointment beforehand. You can walk into the office when it is convenient for you. Before you attempt this, however, you should make sure whether the clinic you’ve chosen accepts walk-ins. Furthermore, being seen on a walk-in basis does not mean that your chiropractor should rush through your evaluation. If you do not feel your chiropractor is giving you the attention you deserve, seek out another one.
DURATION OF TREATMENT
There are no hard-and-fast rules that determine how long your course of chiropractic treatment will last. It depends on many factors, including the particular issue you’re experiencing, as well as your personal preference.
Based on an assessment of your general health and specific problem, your Baltimore, MD chiropractor should be able to give you a general idea of how long your treatment course should take. Remember, this should only be an estimation. Be wary of a chiropractor who tells you exactly how long your treatment will last. Conversely, also beware of a chiropractor who gives vague, noncommittal answers or, worse yet, evades the question altogether. Both are signs of an untrustworthy chiropractor who cares more about getting you in for appointments than doing what is best for your health.
Some people find that they still see benefits from routine chiropractic adjustment even after the initial condition has been resolved. These people continue to see the chiropractor on a regular basis for preventative care. This is optional, however. It is entirely up to you how long you wish to continue to see your chiropractor.
Additionally, some chiropractors may recommend that you continue treatment indefinitely. While this isn’t common for temporary injuries, when it comes to chronic back pain that’s the result of certain medical conditions, it might be beneficial to continue to pursue treatment.
HOW LONG UNTIL I FEEL RELIEF? (new content)
How long it might take before you feel relief–as well as having a full recovery–can depend upon each patient. For minor injuries, it may only take a month or two of weekly sessions while a slight annoying pain in your back may only require one session. Additionally, chronic pain or severe injuries may take months to resolve. Your chiropractor will be able to give you an estimate on how long your treatment should take. Ultimately, however, don’t be discouraged if it sounds like it may take several months. Most of the time this is for a total recovery and not how long until you feel relief.
Another way to look at is that back pain typically doesn’t happen overnight and simply worsens over time. From a slight annoyance to a struggle to get out of bed, back pain may accumulate for a long period of time before you feel the need to seek help. As such, treatment may not happen overnight either. However, along the way to a total recovery, you will start to feel degrees of relief.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT
The truth is that nearly anyone can benefit from chiropractic treatment and you don’t necessarily have to have a specific medical condition, a recent sports injury, or an unknown pain in your back. Of course, people with specific reasons are the most that are sure to gain from chiropractic treatment. In addition to helping soothe any injuries or conditions over a period of time, chiropractic treatment also has plenty of other benefits as well. Such benefits include:
- Lowering blood pressure.
- Reducing inflammation.
- Treating Scoliosis.
- Headache relief.
- Improving the symptoms of certain neurological conditions.
WAYS TO SUPPLEMENT CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT
There are plenty of ways that you can supplement your chiropractic treatment and your doctor may even prescribe/recommend methods. While we tend to think of back pain as something that happens only when we get older or from doing heavy laborious activity (such as holding a construction job), back pain can occur in other ways as well. For example, stress can be a big contributor to back pain and it’s not uncommon to even see office workers dealing with back issues. Another issue that can cause back pain can be poor posture.
Some ways to supplement chiropractic care may include:
- Make adjustments to your lifestyle such as your diet and exercise regimen.
- Practice deep-breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga.
- Indulge in your favorite hobbies or discover new ones.
- Make sure you’re getting an adequate amount of sleep.
- Carve out time to take a family trip or vacation.
4 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR CHIROPRACTIC APPOINTMENT
Chiropractic care is an important aspect of medicine that helps to treat the spine and joints. If you deal with pain in your joints due to an injury or overuse, seeing a chiropractor may help you. Once you get your first appointment set up, it might make the process easier to know what you’re getting into.
#1: YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT
More than likely, your first appointment with your chiropractor in Baltimore, MD will consist mainly of a physical exam. Your practitioner will evaluate where your pain is and help you find out why it’s happening. During this first appointment, it’s important to be completely honest with your chiropractor. The more they know, the more they can help you. You may not get an adjustment on your first visit, but you will have a better idea of what to expect for your treatment.
#2: YOUR OVERALL COST
Second, you should know what you’ll be paying for your chiropractic care. Many mainstream insurance companies cover chiropractic services, so you shouldn’t have to worry about an overhead cost. Even if your health insurance doesn’t cover a chiropractor in Baltimore, MD, the cost for this service is much lower than other forms of medical care. At Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, you won’t need to worry about paying an arm and a leg to feel better. If you have questions about your payment options, don’t hesitate to contact your chiropractor’s office to sort it out.
#3: YOUR TREATMENT OPTIONS
When you visit Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, you’ll be given a treatment plan that fits your needs. This plan may include adjustments, soft-tissue work, or even physical therapy, all depending on what underlying issues are in play. Again, it’s important to be honest with your chiropractor in Baltimore, MD. They have your best interests in mind and want to help you heal. Your treatment plan may include some lifestyle changes as well, but those will all be discussed between you and your chiropractor. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, because you and your practitioner need to be on the same page.
#4: YOUR EXPECTATIONS
As you prepare for your first appointment with a chiropractor in Baltimore, MD, you should make sure your expectations are realistic. Although seeing a chiropractor can help you move more freely, you shouldn’t expect a miracle. There may be a couple of sessions needed to really get you feeling better, but you shouldn’t give up hope. Trust your chiropractor and let them help you.
At Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, we want to eliminate your worries when it comes to visiting a chiropractor for your aches and pains. If you have more questions about chiropractic care, or if you would like to set up a consultation with a chiropractor Baltimore, MD patients recommend, please call our office today.
Chiropractor Baltimore Infographic
IMPORTANT QUALITIES TO LOOK FOR IN A CHIROPRACTOR
If you suffer from chronic pain, it may be beneficial to see a chiropractor in Baltimore, MD. Chiropractors provide non-invasive therapies that focus on treating the root cause of pain. Here are a few important qualities to look for in a chiropractor.
- Thorough training. Just because a chiropractor passed the board exams, does not mean that he or she will give excellent care. It is important for chiropractors to be committed to continuing their education. This way, they will have knowledge about up-to-date technology and techniques.
- Good communication skills. The chiropractor you select should also possess good communication skills. He or she should take ample time to explain your diagnosis and treatment plan to you. Your chiropractor shouldn’t use jargon that you don’t understand. He or she should also thoroughly answer all the questions you have. If a chiropractor does not take the time to explain everything to you or listen to your concerns, you may want to choose someone different.
- Specialized experience. Not all chiropractors may treat the same types of conditions. That is why you should make sure that the chiropractor you choose has experience with your specific condition. For example, if you suffered whiplash in a car accident, you’ll want to work with a chiropractor who has experience treating accident injuries.
- Excellent bedside manner. Just like traditional doctors, chiropractors should have excellent bedside manner. He or she should do everything possible to make you feel more comfortable during your treatment. After all, the more relaxed you feel, the more loosened up you feel. Plus, if you feel comfortable around your chiropractor, you will be much more willing to tell him or her the truth about your condition and lifestyle habits.
- Good reputation. Just like you wouldn’t go to a mechanic with a bad reputation, you would not go to a chiropractor with less than stellar reviews. Before you go to see a chiropractor, check his or her reviews and testimonials online. They should provide some good insight into the chiropractor’s work.
- Honest. It’s also important to work with a chiropractor who is completely honest with you. He or she shouldn’t just tell you what you want to hear. For example, if your condition will require many chiropractic sessions, your chiropractor should tell you that from the beginning.
As a qualified and trusted chiropractor in Baltimore, MD can tell you, cute or chronic pain can disrupt your everyday life, preventing you from being able to work, enjoy your favorite activities. If you have debilitating pain and symptoms that have not improved after some time, seeing a qualified chiropractor is recommended. A chiropractor treats many types of injuries, diseases and other disorders that affect the muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons. If you have never been to a chiropractor before, here are questions that you can ask during your first consultation.
What can a chiropractor do for me?
A chiropractor is a healthcare professional that specializes in the musculoskeletal system and the issues that impact it. They offer a variety of treatments and services, and can treat patients suffering from issues like car accident injuries, occupational injuries, and sports injuries. In addition to helping patients recover from injuries, a chiropractor can treat aches and pains, help you improve your mobility, lose weight and maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
What injuries can a chiropractor treat?
Some of the injuries that people often see a chiropractor for include hamstring strains, spinal fractures, rotator cuff injuries, sciatica, tendonitis, and whiplash. If your injury involves the muscles, tendons, joints or ligaments, a chiropractor can find the source of the pain and determine an accurate diagnosis. They can help restore function in your body and help you prevent recurring injuries as well.
Can a chiropractor treat headaches?
Many people associate chiropractors with issues affecting the spine, such as lower back pain or neck pain. However, a chiropractor can develop a treatment plan for people who suffer from headaches or migraines. In many cases, headaches result from tension in the neck and spine. A chiropractor can see if there is any pressure, stiffness or inflammation along your spine which may be triggering your headaches or migraines. Massaging your muscles can help relieve pressure on your nerves, alleviating the severity of your symptoms or frequency of headaches.
How can I benefit from seeing a chiropractor?
There are many benefits to seeing a chiropractor. First, it is completely natural and non-invasive. Chiropractor uses their hands or other specially designed instruments to do spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and other types of chiropractic care. They find the root of the pain so that they are not just treating the symptoms, but addressing the underlying issue.
Is chiropractic care safe?
Chiropractic care is safe and effective. It does not involve any high-risk procedures such as surgery or powerful medications. Chiropractic treatments are just as effective or even more effective than traditional treatments, and the risk of developing complications is minimal. It is common for many patients to feel relief not long after their first session.
See a trained and certified chiropractor like one at Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic if you want to get rid of your pain and live a healthier life. Schedule a consultation now to discuss available treatment options with an experienced chiropractor in the Baltimore, MD area.
Why Do People Experience Hip Pain?
Your hip joint can withstand repetitive motion and a significant amount of wear and tear. It’s the body’s largest ball-and-socket joint, and the pieces fit together neatly to produce fluid movement. A cushion of cartilage helps decrease friction as the hip bone moves in its socket.
Despite its durability, the hip joint can break down. With age and use, the cushioning cartilage can become damaged or worn. Muscles and tendons in the hip can often get overused. Bones in the hip may break during an injury or fall. Any of the following conditions can lead to hip pain:
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. These are common causes of hip pain, particularly in older adults. Arthritis causes inflammation of the hip joint and the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions it. People with arthritis may also feel stiffness and have reduced range of motion in the hip.
Hip fractures. The bones in the hip can become weak and brittle with age. Weak bones are in danger of breaking during a fall.
Bursitis. Bursae are the sacs of liquid located between tissues such as bone, muscles, and tendons. Bursae ease the friction caused by these tissues rubbing together. When bursae are inflamed, they can cause the pain of bursitis. Bursitis is usually caused by repetitive activities which overwork or irritate the hip joint.
Tendonitis. Tendons are the thick bands of connective tissue that attach bones to muscles. Tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendons. Repetitive stress and overuse can cause this as well.
Muscle or tendon strain. Repeated activities can strain the muscles, tendons, and ligaments supporting the hips. Strains can cause pain and interfere with normal hip function.
Hip labral tear. This is a rip in a ring of cartilage (called the labrum) that is located on the outer rim of the socket of your hip joint. The labrum supports and cushions the ball of the hip in the socket. Athletes and people who engage in repetitive twisting movements are at higher risk of developing this condition.
If your hips are sore, you would be well-advised to include chiropractic care in your healing protocol. At Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, a Baltimore, MD chiropractor can use chiropractic manipulation and adjustments to ease pressure and inflammation in the hip joint. Other ways we can help patients find relief from hip pain include:
- Applying cold or heat therapy
- Recommending rehabilitative exercises
- Discussing postural adjustments and weight loss techniques
- Recommending anti-inflammatory nutritional changes and dietary supplements
Let a Baltimore, MD Chiropractor Help You
These are just a few of the options Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic can offer. Schedule an appointment with a chiropractor Baltimore, MD patients trust so we can customize a protocol to help reduce your hip pain and movement restriction. Call today!
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