Frequently Asked Questions at Hoffer Chiropractic
Like other Scottsdale chiropractors, we hear many questions from new and current chiropractic patients. Here are some of the most common questions and answers…
Is chiropractic painful?
We are often asked…Will my insurance cover chiropractic?
Chiropractic treatment carried out by a properly qualified doctor of chiropractic, is generally painless. Occasionally if you have an acute condition with a lot of muscle spasm there may be some discomfort, however as a Scottsdale AZ chiropractor I will always use the most appropriate technique to minimize any discomfort, and give advice on how to help yourself at home.
What is the biggest mistake practice members and the medical community make every day?
They use heat instead of ice. “It always perplexes me when a practice member has gone to the emergency room and or their primary care physician for severe pain. After they rule out any severe life threatening situation they send the patient home with anti-inflammatory medication, muscle relaxers, and in the same sentence they recommend heat.” Why would you give an anti-inflammatory which reduces swelling and then tell the patient to use heat which increases swelling at the same time. I have seen many patients over the years end up in the emergency room due to severe pain because they have used heat which has just made their condition worse. Heat usually will feel good while it is on but it often inflames the area over the next few hours and makes you worse. So, you put heat on it again and you go downhill. Do what the professional athletes do, use ice. Icing for 10 minutes and then letting the area warm up again before reapplying. This is a great strategy for most conditions in all phases of healing. Heat is rarely needed.
How should I sleep and what kind of pillow do you recommend?
Scottsdale chiropractors say that sleeping on your stomach should be avoided as this puts the most stress on your spine especially your upper back and neck. If you cannot change this sleeping habit try it without a pillow or a very thin pillow.
The best way to sleep is:
- On your side
- Pillow between your knees
- Use a pillow that allows your neck to be in a neutral position.
The second best way to sleep is:
- On your back
- Using a cervical pillow
Make sure the pillow is not too big as this pushes your head forward to far and can often exacerbate your neck and upper back pain. If you wake up in the morning consistently more sore than when you went to bed then you may need a new mattress. Finding a sleeping posture and a good mattress for you is extremely important for your spine as you often spend a third of your life sleeping.
What supplements can I take to help?
It is our belief as Scottsdale chiropractors that you should try to eat healthy first. By avoiding non processed food and eating a variety of vegetables, fruits, and lean meats, the need for supplements can be reduced. Many studies over the years have indicated that less than 5 percent of the population in the United States gets the necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from their diet on a regular basis. Depending upon your lifestyle, athletic aspirations, health goals, or weight management, we can direct you to the right nutritional routine to achieve ideal health. Making sure you take quality products is essential to get the results you deserve.
How long do I need to keep getting chiropractic adjustments?
This really depends upon your own individual goals and overall health.
Some factors that affect healing include your:
- Age
- Pre-existing conditions
- Severity of injury
- Lifestyle stress
- Conditioning
- Nutrition
- Flexibility
- How long you have had your symptoms
Usually patients come into our Scottsdale chiropractic office with some sort of condition or crisis and then they are given options. Obviously, initially their primary goal is to become pain free and function better. Once this is accomplished many of our patients choose to utilize chiropractic as part of their wellness routine. Depending upon your health and wellness goals we will work with you and your entire family and put together a specific plan of action that fits your needs.
How much does chiropractic care cost?
Investing in your health is the most important investment you can make. If you have ever had a severe health challenge you will find out quickly that not much else matters. In our office we are always up front with our fees. Depending upon your situation whether it is an auto accident, work injury, insurance, Medicare, or self-pay, we do a complimentary insurance verification. Once we understand your situation, we will sit down with you and discuss exactly what your investment in your health will be and give you a variety of affordable options for you and/or your entire family to receive care. If you ever have any questions just ask.
Call our Scottsdale chiropractic office to make an appointment, so we can help you and your family!