Frequently asked questions | New York City Chiropractic

FAQs

What types of problems do Chiropractors typically treat?

Chiropractors or Doctors of Chiropractic treat many different problems but primarily we center on conditions that impact your nerves, muscles and joints. Commonly we encounter symptoms like low headaches, neck pain, back pain, pain into your extremities, and injuries following a work related matter or car accidents. Dr. Bassel insists on performing a thorough examination that to determine if chiropractic is right for you. After completing an examination Dr. Bassel will review his findings and discuss treatment options. If Chiropractic is right for you, he will begin treatment. If it is not, he will make recommendations of alternative treatments that are available.

What is a Chiropractic adjustment and will it be painful?

Chiropractic adjustments are gentle, effective and safe movements of your joints by a chiropractor's hands and it is one of several methods used for the purpose of movement of those joints and restoring those joints to their normal position. Once the bones of the spine or vertebrae are returned to their proper position, the spinal cord and its nerves are no longer irritated and can work as they were intended to. The spinal cord is the link between the brain and the rest of your body. The Spinal Column is designed to protect the spinal cord. Chiropractic Adjustments serve to maintain the freedom with which information flows from the brain to the rest of the body. By maintaining proper alignment, the nerves and spinal cord allow the brain's input to flow readily so that the body can be healthy, strong and whenever injured, heal efficiently.

Is it true that I will hear some noise while receiving an adjustment?

The "popping" noise that is commonly heard is likened to when you crack your knuckles. It is referred to as "Cavitation". Cavitation describes the scenario when gases (Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen and Oxygen) in our environment are allowed to rapidly escape. When receiving an adjustment, gases that are trapped within the adjusted joint are allowed to rapidly escape. When the gases are released, you hear that familiar popping sound. There is no need to be concerned as there are no harmful effects to an adjustment.

What happens if I have had prior surgery on my spine or have been diagnosed with a spinal condition, can I see a Chiropractor?

Every clinical situation is unique. When undergoing a comprehensive evaluation with a Chiropractor, many of these issues are discussed. Dr. Bassel works with many orthopedists, orthopedic spine specialists and neurosurgeons. The purpose of performing an examination is to help determine if Chiropractic care is right for you. While gathering all information important to your case, if Dr. Bassel thinks he can help you, he will indicate that at the conclusion of your evaluation.

Are X-rays necessary?

X-rays are generally ordered to get a better understanding of your spine. Occasionally signs of certain conditions may show up on a radiograph, such as scoliosis, old fractures, or arthritis. This generally helps Dr. Bassel render a complete opinion about a diagnosis and helps to formulate an appropriate treatment plan.

How does a Chiropractic Education differ from a Medical Doctor?

During the first two years of study to be a medical doctor or a chiropractor, the curricula are very similar. The minimum number of hours for medical students studying classes like anatomy, pathology, chemistry, etc is around 2750 hours. For chiropractors it is 2900 hours. During the final two years of medical school, students spend more time studying classes like pharmacology (prescription drugs), general surgery and immunology while chiropractors learn more about adjusting the spine, nutrition and holistic approaches to health.

What other methods do Chiropractors use to treat patients?

In most Chiropractic Colleges students are taught a variety of techniques to address spinal concerns. Some chiropractors use manual techniques (use of the hands) to move the bones while some use mechanical tools to adjust the vertebrae. All approaches provide results, however certain techniques work better for some people and others work better for others. Dr. Bassel is trained in a variety of techniques to help treat a wide range of people and conditions.

Do Chiropractors provide supplements or herbal remedies as part of their treatment?

Some Chiropractors do and some don't. It has been Dr. Bassel's experience at that you get out of life what invest into your health. The use of good vitamins, supplements and minerals into our body is a healthy choice. Dr. Bassel can recommend various supplements and herbal remedies that will help you make the most of your health.

Neck Pain/Treatments

neck-pain Neck pain and neck stiffness can result from tension and/or muscle strain, and commonly affects regions near the neck, including the shoulder, jaw, head and upper arms. The term "stiff" neck is often used to describe the pain that results when...