Chiropractic FAQ: Your Questions Answered at Ponte Vedra Beach Chiropractic
At Ponte Vedra Beach Chiropractic, we understand that patients have questions about chiropractic care, treatments, and results. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you feel informed and confident about your care.
What Chiropractic Techniques Do You Use?
We personalize every treatment based on each patient’s unique condition and preferences. The first step is determining whether manual adjustments, instrument-assisted adjustments, or a combination will be most effective.
Some patients prefer the feeling of a manual adjustment (“pop” or release), while others prefer the gentler, non-cracking instrument-assisted adjustments using tools like the Integrator or Arthrostim. Many patients benefit from a combination of manual, instrument-assisted, and drop table adjustments.
Our treatment goals include:
• Reducing pain
• Decreasing nerve stress and tension
• Improving mobility
• Enhancing posture
We are trained in a variety of chiropractic techniques, including:
• Torque Release Technique (TRT)
• Gonstead Technique
• Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT)
• Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP)
• Pettibon Technique
• Thompson Technique
• Activator Technique
• Diversified Technique
• Multiple extremity techniques
We continuously update our skills to provide the most effective care for our patients.
How Many Chiropractic Sessions Will I Need?
The number of visits depends on your condition’s severity and your goals:
• Pain relief only: Usually 2–8 visits, or until symptoms are relieved.
• Long-term correction: Treatment may continue beyond pain relief to address the underlying causes of your condition, including strengthening exercises in-office and at home.
• Wellness care: Regular chiropractic visits can improve overall health, reduce stress, strengthen immunity, lower blood pressure, improve digestion, and enhance sleep. A common wellness schedule is every 2–3 weeks or every 4 weeks, combined with daily stretches and exercises.
Will Chiropractic Adjustments Cause Pain or Discomfort?
Most adjustments are painless. However, some temporary soreness may occur due to:
• Restoring normal joint movement after a period of immobility
• Muscle spasms protecting misaligned joints
• Deconditioning of muscles surrounding chronic pain
• Detoxification effects on the body
• Controlled inflammation as part of the healing process
Tips for reducing soreness:
• Stay hydrated
• Use gentle stretching and heat
• Consider natural anti-inflammatories such as curcumin, ginger, magnesium, omega-3s, and resveratrol
What Types of Chronic Pain Can Chiropractic Treat?
We treat a wide range of chronic pain conditions, including:
• Musculoskeletal: Neck pain, back pain, sciatica, extremity pain (shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles, feet)
• Joint disorders: Arthritis, degenerative disc disease
• Soft tissue pain: Fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, post-surgical pain
• Neurological conditions: Migraines, carpal tunnel syndrome, TMJ dysfunction
• Other chronic issues: Plantar fasciitis, digestive problems, sleep disturbances
Chronic pain care: Often requires a multifaceted approach, including spinal adjustments, nutrition, lifestyle modifications, anti-inflammatory strategies, and exercises to improve function and reduce symptoms over time.
Do You Accept Insurance?
Yes, we work with most insurance plans, including:
• Medicare
• VA (Veterans Affairs)
• Florida Blue, Cigna, United Healthcare, UMR, Golden Rule, Humana, BCBS
• Auto insurance
We always verify your benefits and explain what is covered before treatment begins.
Do I Need to Be Adjusted if I Don’t Like the “Cracking”?
No. We offer instrument-assisted adjustments with no “pop” or “crack.” We also provide alternative therapies like:
• Massage therapy
• Physical therapy
• Decompression traction
• Class IV laser therapy
The focus is on pain relief and improved function, using the methods that work best for you.
Do I Need a Referral from My Doctor?
In most cases, a medical referral is not required.
Exceptions:
• VA patients need a referral from their VA primary doctor
• Rare cases requiring specialized care
We assist with all referral processes if needed.
Will I Receive Treatment on My First Visit?
Yes. Our goal is to provide immediate pain relief whenever possible. Occasionally, treatment may be delayed to review imaging or consult with another provider.
Are Payment Plans or Discounts Available?
Yes, we offer payment plans and self-pay discounts. HSA and FSA cards are also accepted.
Are Same-Day Appointments Available?
We aim to see patients as quickly as possible. If you are in severe pain or recently had an accident, we can accommodate same-day appointments.
How Long Will I Need Chiropractic Care?
Care recommendations depend on your goals:
• Short-term pain relief: Treat as needed for symptom relief
• Long-term correction and wellness: Regular care to strengthen affected areas, maintain spinal health, and prevent recurring issues
We provide honest recommendations, but the choice is yours.
Will I Receive Home Exercise Recommendations?
Yes. Home stretches and exercises are vital for optimal results. We provide:
• Step-by-step instructions
• Demonstrations during appointments
• Handouts or videos for reference
These exercises improve mobility, posture, and overall health.
Can I Be Adjusted After Surgery?
Yes, depending on the surgery type and location. Instrument-assisted adjustments are generally safe post-surgery. If adjustments aren’t appropriate, we use alternative therapies to ensure results.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes. Chiropractic care is safe and effective during pregnancy:
• Provides pain and stress relief
• Improves sleep and overall function
• Uses pregnancy pillows for comfort
• Includes Webster Technique to assist fetal positioning and pelvic balance
Ready to Experience Relief?
At Ponte Vedra Beach Chiropractic, we customize care for your unique needs. Call us today at (904) 285-2243 or book online to schedule your consultation.