The Chiropractic Adjustment

• What is a chiropractic adjustment?

  • A chiropractic adjustment is a precise, controlled thrust delivered by the chiropractor’s hands to a specific misaligned vertebra (subluxation).

• Are chiropractic adjustments safe?

  • Yes, absolutely. Chiropractic care maintains an excellent safety record due to the use of biologically sound, specific adjustments without reliance on drugs or surgery. A New Zealand government study has found these procedures to be “remarkably safe.”

• Can I adjust myself?

  • No. The motion of turning your neck or body may produce a “popping” sound, which is caused by the release of gas and pressure in the joint, potentially offering momentary relief. However, this action does not correct the underlying misaligned vertebra. Only a licensed chiropractor is qualified to deliver a specific, corrective adjustment.

The Gonstead Method and Dr. Kaplan

• What differentiates Dr. Kaplan’s approach from other chiropractors?

  • The primary distinction lies in the Gonstead System. Dr. Kaplan utilizes the Gonstead System for analyzing and adjusting the spine. This system ensures a highly specific approach to care, accurately identifying problem areas and delivering precise adjustments for optimal, lasting results.

• Will Dr. Kaplan adjust my entire spine?

  • As a Gonstead Chiropractor, Dr. Kaplan carefully analyzes the spine to determine the exact segments requiring an adjustment, while leaving healthy segments alone. Non-specific manipulation of the entire spine is avoided, as the goal is to correct the precise cause of the problem and allow the body’s innate healing capacity to take over.

Conditions and Benefits

• Can chiropractic care address issues beyond back pain?

  • Absolutely. The removal of nerve interference through a specific chiropractic adjustment allows the entire body to function more effectively, enhancing the immune system and supporting the body’s natural self-healing capabilities.

• Will my pain be relieved immediately?

  • In many cases, relieving pressure on the nervous system provides immediate relief.

• Do I have a slipped disc?

  • No. The disc is a cartilage pad situated between each spinal vertebra. While a disc can bulge, swell, or herniate due to subluxations or trauma, it cannot actually “slip” out of place. Dr. Kaplan focuses on gently correcting the misaligned vertebra to restore proper alignment and allow the disc to heal.

• I’ve had previous back surgery; can I still receive care?

  • Yes. Surgery can sometimes lead to instability in adjacent spinal areas. Dr. Kaplan will remain highly specific in targeting problem areas and will avoid adjusting surgically altered segments.

Subluxations and Spinal Health

• How do I know if I have a subluxation (misalignment)?

  • Subluxations can be present before obvious symptoms appear, similar to the progression of dental decay. A thorough examination in our office is the best way to determine the presence and severity of any subluxations.

• Can children be adjusted?

  • Yes. We recommend checking children for subluxations as early as possible. This proactive approach ensures they can fulfill their potential for optimal health and growth.

• Why are newborns adjusted?

  • The birth process itself, even when natural, can affect an infant’s spine. Research suggests that signs of spinal distress may manifest as colic, erratic sleeping, or poor appetite. Infants are examined carefully and, if needed, receive a very gentle Gonstead adjustment involving minimal pressure.

Prognosis and Care Schedule

• Will I see results immediately?

  • Results depend on factors such as the nature and history of the condition. While some see immediate results, others may require weeks or months of care to reverse chronic changes that have occurred in response to the subluxation(s).

• How long until I feel better?

  • Many patients report immediate relief; others experience steady progress over days or weeks. Healing is influenced by the severity and duration of the injury, as well as adherence to proper rest, nutrition, exercise, and Dr. Kaplan’s recommendations.

• How many visits will be necessary?

  • The required number of visits is based on your unique situation. We do not use a standard protocol (e.g., “3x a week for 6 weeks”) for every patient. Following the initial exam, Dr. Kaplan will provide an estimated recovery timeframe, refining the plan after 2-3 visits.

• I’ve heard that once you start getting adjusted, you have to keep getting adjusted. Is that true?

  • This is only true if you choose to utilize chiropractic as a wellness and prevention lifestyle (similar to a gym membership or regular dental checkups) rather than just a reactive service for pain relief. Many individuals choose periodic checkups for overall health, better energy, and stress resilience.