YOUR FIRST VISIT
If you are new to chiropractic, you may be wondering what is involved. Your first visit to our clinic will provide both you and us with the opportunity to see what chiropractic can do for you. First, a complete health history will be performed. We will collect specific information including previous surgeries, illnesses and injuries, family history, dietary habits, and your reasons for seeking treatment. We will perform a thorough neurological, orthopedic and chiropractic examinination. If needed, x-rays will be taken to reveal any structural problems. Most likely, you will receive your first treatment on this day. Once your examination is complete, we will review your findings and set up a treatment plan for you. On your next appointment, we will report to you our findings and evaluate how you responded to your first treatment. And if we should determine that you require attention from other branches of healthcare, a recommendation or referral will be encouraged
ADJUSTMENTS
A chiropractic spinal adjustment involves the application of precise force to a specific segment of the spine in order to correct misalignments. Misalignments of the spine can be the cause of symptoms including back, neck and shoulder pain, headaches, sciatica and many more. Adjustments can be performed by the doctor using his hands or specialized instruments. Just as no two symptoms are exactly alike, neither are two treatment plans. Dr. Reif has been trained to tailor your treatment to you and your symptoms. Under normal circumstances, there is no pain involved in a chiropractic adjustment. Therapeutic treatments may be used in conjunction with adjustments to help with your symptoms. These may include the use of electro-muscle stimulation, ultrasound, and the application of heat or cold. Chiropractic care requires a series of appointments, each one building on the previous appointments.
ELECTRO-MUSCLE STIMULATION
Electro-muscle stimulation is a therapeutic treatment in which pads are placed on the skin in the affected area. These pads are connected to an instrument that produces small amounts of electrical current, which are induced into the tissues to reduce swellling. This technique helps strengthen muscles and reduce symptoms. This therapy is used as a form of pain relief, especially in cases involving swelling and inflammation. Generally, this therapy lasts between 10 to 20 minutes. As with adjustments, there is no pain involved with electro-muscle stimulation. Many symptoms can be relieved with this treatment.
ULTRASOUND
Ultrasound is a therapeutic treatment in which high-frequency sound waves are applied to the affected area. The sound waves create vibrations that penetrate the tissues deep in the body and create a heat response. The combination of vibrations and heat help break down and disperse calcium and other hard tissue accumulations. This therapy helps increase blood flow, relax muscle spasms, massage damaged tissues, and speed the body's natural healing process. There is no pain associated with this therapy. Ultrasound can often help shoulders, elbows, and sports-related injuries.