Frequently Asked Questions about Animal Chiropractic
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1. What is Animal Chiropractic?
In simple terms, animal chiropractors identify abnormal or restricted joint movement in the spine and extremities, which can affect the nervous system and the entire body. Their goal is to restore proper joint movement to enable the nervous system and the body to function at their optimal, healthy potential.
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2. How are animals adjusted?
Chiropractic care for animals is a manual treatment method, meaning it's performed by hand. Similar to human chiropractic adjustments, when an animal chiropractor identifies areas with reduced or restricted motion, they apply a specific, high-velocity, low-amplitude thrust tailored to the joint's anatomy, thereby restoring normal movement.
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3. How long does an adjustment take?
The initial visit typically lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. Follow-up visits generally take approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
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4. Could an adjustment worsen my animal's condition?
No, after an adjustment, your animal may experience mild soreness. However, when administered correctly by a trained professional, chiropractic care is a safe and effective treatment for animals.
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5. Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt?
Occasionally, during an adjustment, animals may briefly experience discomfort.
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6. What kind of training does a certified animal chiropractor have?
Certified animal chiropractors are either Doctors of Chiropractic or Veterinarians. They receive certification from organizations like the AVCA (American Veterinary Chiropractic Association) or the IVCA (International Veterinary Chiropractic Association). There is no board certification in animal chiropractic.
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7. Is chiropractic safe?
Yes, chiropractic care has an outstanding safety record. It follows a natural and conservative approach to health, avoiding invasive procedures or addictive drugs. To illustrate its safety, one can compare malpractice rates between chiropractors and other healthcare professionals, with chiropractors having significantly lower premiums.
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8. What causes the sound during an adjustment?
Adjustments may produce a spinal "release" or "popping" sound, although not always. This sound occurs when gas rushes in to fill the partial vacuum created when joints are slightly separated. It is painless and harmless.
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9. What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment involves using a precise force in a specific direction on a subluxated, "locked up," or improperly moving joint. The purpose of this safe and natural procedure is to remove interference to the nervous system, enhancing spinal function and overall health.
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10. What is chiropractic care?
Chiropractic care is a natural method of healthcare that focuses on addressing the root causes of physical problems rather than merely treating symptoms. It is grounded in a straightforward yet powerful premise: with a properly functioning spine and a healthy nervous system, the body can better heal itself. The spine serves as the conduit for the nervous system, which controls sensation, movement, and all bodily functions.