Chiropractic Care
Dr. Chappie will obtain a complete case history and perform a thorough examination of your posture, reflexes and muscle strength. If necessary, additional diagnostic methods such as x-rays will be used to guide Dr. Chappie in creating an individualized chiropractic care program based upon the structure and health of your spine. In addition, Dr. Chappie works closely with other health care providers, such as orthopedic physicians and neurologists in the community. He will make referrals to the providers if necessary to obtain the best treatment for your condition…the patient comes first – not the doctor’s ego.

The plan of care will be based upon your age, physical condition, lifestyle and unique spinal problem(s). The primary course of treatment will be spinal manipulation or “adjustments” to return individual vertebrae and other bones to their proper position and motion.

The plan of care is composed of three stages. During the first stage, initial intensive care, treatment is directed toward reducing or eliminating the most obvious symptoms. Visits may be frequent depending upon the severity of your condition. The objective of the second phase of treatment, rehabilitative care, is to stabilize spinal functions and promote complete healing. The third stage involves preventative wellness care aimed at maintaining a healthy spine.

ADJUSTMENTS/ MANIPULATION

The term "adjustment" refers to the specific manipulation chiropractors apply to vertebrae that have abnormal movement patterns or fail to function normally. The objective of the chiropractic treatment is to reduce the subluxation, which results in an increased range of motion, reduced nerve irritability and improved function.

The adjustment made by the chiropractor consists of a high velocity, short lever arm thrust applied to a vertebra, which is often accompanied by an audible release of gas (joint cavitation). The audible sound is caused by the release of oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, which releases joint pressure (cavitation). The sensation is usually relieving, though minor discomfort has been reported (that usually lasts for only a short time duration) if the surrounding muscles are in spasm or the patient tenses up during the chiropractic procedure.

There are times when joint cavitation or cracking does not occur and this is often due to either significant muscle splinting or the patient may not be adequately relaxed during the chiropractic procedure. At times like this, it is sometimes best for the chiropractor to apply ice, have the patient rest, or do electrical stimulationand massage prior to attempting spinal manipulation.