Commonly Asked Questions
What can I expect on my first visit?
What is a treatment?
Are x-rays going to be performed?
What type of therapy do you perform?
How long can I expect a visit to take?
How long will care continue?
Do I need a referral to come to your office?
Do I have insurance coverage for my treatment?
What education does a chiropractor have?
What can I expect on my first visit? After
the necessary paperwork, the doctor will discuss your health history
and current condition, then an examination will be performed. Once a
diagnosis is made, it will be thoroughly explained to you, as well as
the treatment options available. If appropriate, care will commence.
What is a treatment? Treatments are
variable. They may include manipulation, a specialized traction called
flexion/distraction, ultrasound, deep soft tissue massage, electrical
muscle stimulation, etc. Exercises and a proper rehabilitation program
may be initiated to aid in recovery and prevent a reoccurrence of the
condition.
Are x-rays going to be performed? Radiographic
studies, other imaging, and laboratory procedures are only performed
when they are necessary to clarify a diagnosis.
What type of therapy do you perform? The
doctors at Tri County Chiropractic, S.C., perform flexion/distraction
techniques, diversified and Gonstead manipulation, trigger point therapy,
ultrasound, and electrical muscle stimulation, as well as provide customized
exercise/rehabilitation programs and nutritional consultation.
How long can I expect a visit to take? The
first visit will generally take an hour. The doctor will perform a history
and examination in order to thoroughly assess and diagnose your condition.
After that has been performed, treatment will be provided. Subsequent
visits are usually 20-30 minutes.
How long will care continue? The answer is
different for each person and his/her condition. An uncomplicated case
often responds within a few days with resolution in one to four weeks.
Naturally, the more complicated, severe, or long-standing conditions
require longer care, such as disc conditions.
Do I need a referral to come to your office?
Not typically. You do not need a referral from another doctor to seek
out chiropractic care. Whether it is an injury at work, auto accident,
or personal injury, a referral is not needed to come to our office.
If you have a question about your coverage, contact the customer service
department at your insurance company.
Do I have insurance coverage for my chiropractic
care? Most insurance plans have chiropractic benefits. Your insurance
plan booklet or the customer service department at the insurance company
will be able to provide you with specific details concerning your coverage.
Your insurance may require that you see certain chiropractors that are
in your plan or have a preferred provider option. We are preferred providers
for many insurance companies. Under workers'
compensation, auto accidents, and personal injury claims, you may choose
any chiropractic provider without referral.
What education does a chiropractor have?
Currently, the Doctor of Chiropractic completes a four-year undergraduate
degree. After being accepted to a chiropractic college, the student
completes five academic years including an internship program. There
is a comprehensive National Board Examination and often a state examination
required to obtain a license. Post-graduate education is necessary each
year to maintain a state license and special certifications.