We’re fully aware that most people care way more about the results of their treatment than the treatment itself, but for those who want to know exactly what we do to get you out of pain so quickly (our average number of treatment sessions is around four outside of auto accidents or other traumatic situations), keep on reading.
The first and most important part of getting you better quickly is getting the right diagnosis. We hear it all the time from our patients who found us after going “everywhere else” first: nobody has ever told them why their back or neck hurts.
We’re going to figure out why. Once we know why, how becomes much more clear.
We’re convinced that the thorough exam–and even more thorough explanations we provide our patients are the primary keys to the fast turnarounds we routinely see. Once we know your diagnosis, it’s time for treatment.
While chiropractic is typically associated with the “cracking” style of joint manipulation, there are many treatment methods employed in modern chiropractic offices. Ultimately, the method of treatment depends on the diagnosis of your condition, but Dr. Green utilizes the following methods:
Joint Manipulation
Dr. Green will speak to you about the different types of manipulation, and often utilizes “non-cracking” methods. If you’re nervous about joint manipulation, and many are, don’t let your fears keep you from seeking help. Dr. Green also uses Flexion/Distraction manipulation which has been proven effective in decompressing discs.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Specifically, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, which utilizes instruments that detect aberrant movement patterns and adhesions in the fascia, the underlying support tissue that runs from head to toe, and enables muscle tissues to glide smoothly over one another. This technique is very effective in treating conditions such as sprained ankles, tennis elbow, and back and neck pain when the fascia is determined to be a pain generator.
End Range Loading
Disc pain can often lead to the “pins and needles” feeling associated with the leg or arm pain that often accompanies it. When these symptoms are present an end range loading exam is utilized to determine what exercises should be performed (or avoided) so the patient will be able to manage their condition at home. An end range loading exam involves the patient moving through certain ranges of motion at their own pace to determine the effect the movement will have on the patient’s symptoms.
Neuro-Mobilization
Often, scar tissue prevents nerve tissues from moving appropriately, which can lead to pain. Neuro-mobilization can free these tissues and decrease pain. Once the correct method of mobilization is discovered in the exam, the patient can continue the treatment at home with exercises.
Therapeutic Exercise
The most important part of your treatment will be the things you can do for yourself. This means exercises to strengthen the stabilizing muscles of the spine which will give you a means to manage your own symptoms. Dr. Green will instruct you in the office with a minimum number of exercises that have been proven effective in the management of back and neck pain. Again, self-advocacy is the most important part of your treatment, and Dr. Green strives to give his patients a sense of independence in managing their condition.