1. What are possible signs and symptoms that may indicate a spinal problem?
2. What should I expect on my first visit?
3. Do I have to have x-rays taken?
4. What kind of treatments do Chiropractors use?
5. How many treatments will I need?
6. Who in my family can be helped by chiropractic?
7. Do insurance plans cover chiropractic?
8. What type of education and training do chiropractors have?

1. What are possible signs and symptoms that may indicate a spinal problem?
   You may experience one or more of the warning signs listed below if you have a spinal problem. However, spinal conditions in their early stages do not always express symptoms, which is why a thorough examination is critical to properly determine the condition of your musculoskeletal system.
   
   
   • Neck Pain
   • Upper Back or Mid Back Pain
   • Low Back Pain
   • Recurring Headaches
   • Arm or Leg Pain
   • Joint Pain (shoulder, knee etc.)
   • Numbness or Tingling in Arms/Legs
   • Abnormal Posture
   • Loss of Sleep Due to Pain
   • Chronic Fatigue and Lack of Energy
   
   
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2. What should I expect on my first visit?
   Doctor White will talk with you about your condition and take a complete health history. She will then perform a thorough examination in order to diagnose your problem. Next, a digital computerized postural analysis is performed using PostureScreen™ software. This analysis allows measurement of abnormal positions of the head, shoulder, ribcage, pelvis, knees and feet. In addition, a digital foot scanner is utilized to examine the structure of the three arches in the feet. The final step is taking precise spinal x-rays to determine your exact spinal alignment. You will then be scheduled for a second visit during which Dr. White will explain your diagnosis, recommend a treatment plan and discuss treatment options. If necessary, you may be referred for specialized testing such as MRI or CT scan or for further consult with an appropriate medical specialist.
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3. Do I have to have x-rays taken?
   Spinal x-rays are taken as part of the examination process in order to properly evaluate spinal alignment. X-rays provide important information on the position of the spinal bones and the presence of factors that would dictate or alter the treatments needed. The Spinal Health and Wellness Center, LLC uses current x-ray technology to produce the highest-quality x-rays with minimal exposure. There are situations when we would not take x-rays on certain patients including pregnancy or if recent usable spinal x-rays are available. The determination whether or not to take x-rays on children is made on a case by case basis depending upon the nature of the individual’s health history and findings from physical exam.
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4. What kind of treatments do Chiropractors use?
   Chiropractors are known for using spinal adjustments to realign the spine. However, in addition to adjustments, the Spinal Health and Wellness Center, LLC uses other treatments including soft tissue therapies (trigger point therapy), physiotherapy modalities (electric stimulation) and therapeutic exercise (lumbar stabilization, postural improvement exercises). The appropriate treatments will be determined based upon the history of your specific condition and after review of examination findings.
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5. How many treatments will I need?
   The number of treatments needed depends on the nature and severity of your condition. It also depends upon your personal health goals. It is always your decision whether you want to treat your symptoms or treat the cause of your problem. Treating the cause of the underlying problem is the best way to prevent recurrence of your pain and reestablish proper spinal alignment in order to reduce the chances of developing more serious spinal problems as you age.
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6. Who in my family can be helped by chiropractic?
   Patients of all ages can benefit from chiropractic care. Children are often in need of chiropractic care because everyday childhood activities, sports and falls can result in the misalignment of the spinal bones. Early treatment of these spinal misalignments can prevent the development of more involved problems. Older adults can also improve with chiropractic care. Many older patients notice that adjustments improve their ability to complete activities of daily living with less pain and more agility.
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7. Do insurance plans cover chiropractic?
   The majority of health care plans have coverage for chiropractic services. Coverage is often available under Worker’s Compensation and Personal Injury Policies as well. Our office will help you verify your chiropractic benefits and explain how your benefits can be utilized in our office. The Spinal Health and Wellness Center, LLC accepts major insurances and the doctors are preferred providers in the following networks: Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield, UPMC, and Medicare.
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8. What type of education and training do chiropractors have?
   Chiropractors are educated as primary health care practitioners and have an emphasis on diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. Entrance into a chiropractic college requires pre-medical undergraduate college education in biology, chemistry, physics and psychology. Four additional years of professional study are the standard for chiropractic education. Because of the hands-on nature of the chiropractic profession and the intricate adjusting techniques, a significant portion of time is spent in clinical training. The course of study is approved by an accrediting agency and the U.S. Department of Education.
   
   Notice the comparison between Chiropractic and Medical Education:
   
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