Frequently Asked Questions in Bastrop TX

Chiropractic is one of the largest disciplines, if not the largest discipline of holistic and alternative medicine. Chiropractic’s focus is mainly on the structure and function of the body, primarily the structure and function of the musculoskeletal system with its primary focus on the alignment of the spine and other joints in the body. There are many chiropractic techniques, some focused specifically on the spine and skeletal system and other encompassing the musculoskeletal system which includes not only the spine and skeletal system, but also the muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the skeletal system as well.

Neck pain; back pain; headaches; sciatica; hip pain; knee pain; ankle pain; shoulder pain; elbow pain wrist pain; numbness and tingling in arms, hands, legs, and feet; injuries from car accidents; sports injuries; disc bulges; whiplash injuries; plantar fasciitis

A chiropractic adjustment is a process in which a misaligned joint (a subluxation) is realigned into, or closer to, its proper alignment; or when a joint that is not moving properly (a fixated joint) is mobilized to restore motion to the joint.

Chiropractic treatment is not only safe, it is one of the safest of all healthcare disciplines, when performed by a properly trained and licensed Doctor of Chiropractic.

There is no canned answer to this question. Every patient’s needs are different, and treatment plans are tailored to the specific patient’s needs.

Some of the benefits to chiropractic care are pain relief, improved flexibility, better posture, improved athletic performance, less dependance on medication and therefore less chance of side effects of medication. Some patients have reported improved sleep, improved digestion, boosted immune function, and mental clarity.

Although rare, minor side effects include soreness and localized discomfort to the treated area. This is typically in patients who have never had chiropractic care or patients who have not had chiropractic care recently. This usually resolves within 24 hours.

Chiropractic adjustments are not usually painful when performed by a properly trained and licensed Doctor of Chiropractic. Although in severe cases, due to the pain the patient is already experiencing, the adjustment can be painful. This is usually momentary and quickly begins to diminish.

With over 23 years of experience Atlas Pain Institute is here to serve you and YOUR treatment goals. Whether you are looking for routine preventive care, a lasting solution for your pain, or even temporary relief from your pain, we tailor each individual’s treatment to their treatment goals. We also have a team of experts we can refer you to if we do not have your solution or cannot accept your case. Simply said, If we cannot help you we will get you to someone who can.

Each patient’s requirements are different, and the complexity of the patient’s condition is a factor. Appointments can range from 50 to 10 minutes for mild conditions; and up to 90 minutes for more complex conditions.

The educational requirements for a Doctor of Chiropractic include both undergraduate and graduate studies similar to those of a medical doctor. Most chiropractic schools require a minimum of 90 hours of prerequisite classes consisting of biology, chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy and physiology to name a few. A bachelor’s degree is required before applying to a chiropractic school.  Chiropractic school consists of four years of anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, neurology, diagnosis, treatment techniques, and clinical training. A Doctor of Chiropractic must also pass 4 parts of National Board Exams, as well as a state exam and a jurisprudence exam.

No chiropractic care is not addictive, but many patients get accustomed to being healthier and pain free and therefore choose to continue to utilize chiropractic care for this reason.

The cracking popping sound sometimes experienced during an adjustment is simply the release of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide (CO2) gases from the joint space. The medical term is tribonucleation. The gases are released as the joint space opens. Such sounds are completely harmless. There is absolutely no pain, injury, or long-term harm associated with them. A common example is the joints at the base of the fingers, which noisily pop when you crack your knuckles.

No, you cannot adjust yourself. Although you may be able to make your joints pop or crack, doing so is not the same as an adjustment. And even though some people report relief when they “pop” themselves, this is due to a release of endorphins that occurs when the joint “pops” and not because they corrected a misalignment. Chiropractic adjustments are very specific and take years to learn to perform them properly. Even chiropractors do not adjust themselves. Many patients end up seeking care from a chiropractor after trying to adjust themselves and creating bigger problems.

Yes, most insurance plans do cover chiropractic care. If you would like assistance to determine if your policy covers chiropractic care, feel free to contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.

In most cases, yes, chiropractic can help with back and neck pain. In fact, The American Medical Association’s American College of Physicians guidelines recommend starting with drug free treatments, including spinal manipulation (chiropractic care) for both acute and chronic back pain. Studies also show chiropractic care to have a higher success rate when compared to drugs or surgery when treating back and neck pain, and is more affordable, less risky, non-addictive, and comes with fewer side effects.

In most cases, yes, chiropractic can help with back and neck pain. In fact, The American Medical Association’s American College of Physicians guidelines recommend starting with drug free treatments, including spinal manipulation (chiropractic care) for both acute and chronic back pain. Studies also show chiropractic care to have a higher success rate when compared to drugs or surgery when treating back and neck pain, and is more affordable, less risky, non-addictive, and comes with fewer side effects. 

Spinal misalignments cause muscle tension, reduced blood flow, and increased nerve pressure which can lead to headaches. Chiropractic care has been very successful in treating headaches by addressing these misalignments and therefore improving blood flow, reducing muscle tenson and nerve pressure.

For one, chiropractors are portal of entry doctors, which means that patients can go directly to a chiropractor without needing a referral from another doctor. Typically, a physical therapist is not a portal of entry doctor and require a referral from a primary care physician or a specialist.

Yes, chiropractors pay special attention to posture. Improving or correcting spinal alignment reduces tension and stress on the supporting musculature resulting in improved posture. Specific exercises and stretches can also be prescribed is necessary. Chiropractors can also help with advice on lifestyle modification to reduce or eliminate stresses that may be negatively impacting posture. At Atlas Pain Institute, we have programs designed specifically to address postural issues.

During a chiropractic adjustment, your chiropractor will first assess the alignment and mobility of the joints in your spine or extremities to determine which joints need to be addressed. Your chiropractor will then administer the adjustment using either a manual technique or an instrument assisted technique to correct the alignment of the joint, or to mobilize the joint as necessary. Both manual and instrument assisted techniques use a controlled force to manipulate the joint.

Absolutely, chiropractic is safe for children; in fact some chiropractors even specialize in pediatric care. Some benefits of chiropractic care for children include but are not limited to improved sleep, immune system support, reduced risk of injuries, and healthy development.