Frequently Asked Questions in Dallas TX

Chiropractors treat a variety of conditions, primarily those related to the musculoskeletal system. Here are some of the common conditions they address:

1. Headaches: Including tension headaches and migraines, often related to neck issues or spinal alignment.
2. Migraines: Severe, often chronic headaches that can be alleviated through spinal adjustments and other chiropractic techniques.
3. Sciatica: Pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs down one or both legs from the lower back.
4. Back Pain: General pain in the lower, mid, or upper back, which is one of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care.
5. Neck Pain: Pain in the cervical spine area, which can be due to poor posture, injuries, or other issues.
6. Numbness/Tingling: Often related to nerve compression or irritation, which chiropractors can address through spinal adjustments.
7. Sports Injuries: Various injuries resulting from athletic activities, including sprains, strains, and joint problems.

The spine is composed of 24 bones stacked on top of one another, each capable of individual movement. Sometimes, these bones can shift out of alignment with one another, a condition known as a "subluxation." Subluxations cause the joints to move incorrectly and place undue pressure on the existing nerves. Dr. Fowler is trained to identify these subluxations in the spine and extremities and correct them using an adjustment. This adjustment involves a High Velocity Low Amplitude (HVLA) thrust specifically designed to realign the subluxated bones. As a result, the joints move correctly, and the pressure is relieved from the nerves.

Chiropractic care has been researched as one of the safest nondrug, noninvasive forms of health care available today. It has the best results and the highest satisfaction rates of all healthcare methods. The force needed to perform an adjustment is less than a common sneeze. Chiropractors are highly trained professionals who provide patients with safe, effective care for a variety of common conditions.

When it comes to safety, the most important step is a detailed and thorough examination and history, along with X-rays if necessary. To increase safety, it is crucial for you as the patient to inform Dr. Fowler of any medications, traumas incurred, and illnesses they should be aware of before starting care.

To create a specific treatment plan for a patient, an examination and X-ray are necessary. It's impossible to determine the exact number of treatments needed until the examination and X-ray are performed.

Once the adjustment is performed, the pressure on the adjacent nerve is reduced. This leads to better nerve flow from the brain to the rest of the body. Since nerves connect to all parts of the body, the benefits include better nerve flow, improved overall body function, less pain, better joint movement, reduced muscle spasms, improved balance, better sleep, and much more.

All types of healthcare have associated risks. Chiropractic care has proven to have an excellent safety record, with the risks being very small. However, it is important to inform your doctor of any health illnesses or medications that you are currently taking.

Every patient is different. Typically, patients feel relief following chiropractic treatment, but some may experience mild soreness, stiffness, or aching, similar to the sensation after exercise. Patients with significant inflammation can expect an increase in symptoms when beginning care. Research shows that minor discomfort or soreness following spinal adjustments typically fades within 24 hours.

Choosing a chiropractor is a personal decision, and it's important to find someone who meets your specific needs and makes you feel comfortable. Here are some reasons to consider:

• Experience and Expertise: I have extensive training and experience in identifying and treating various musculoskeletal issues.
• Patient-Centered Care: I prioritize personalized care, ensuring each patient receives a thorough examination and a tailored treatment plan.
• Holistic Approach: My approach to care is holistic, focusing not only on immediate relief but also on long-term health and wellness.

Typical appointments last 30 minutes for a regular visit and 1 hour for new patients.

Chiropractors undergo extensive education and training, including:

• Undergraduate Studies: Typically 3-4 years of undergraduate education focusing on sciences.
• Chiropractic College: A 4-year Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program, which includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical internships.
• Licensure: Passing national board exams and obtaining state licensure.
• Continuing Education: Ongoing education to stay current with the latest techniques and research.

Chiropractic care is safe and extremely effective during all stages of pregnancy. Many patients report a much more comfortable experience during pregnancy when incorporating chiropractic care.

Chiropractic care is not addictive. While regular visits can be beneficial for maintaining optimal health and preventing future issues, there is no physiological addiction to chiropractic adjustments.

The sound that is heard during the adjustment is called an “audible.” Where two bones come together forms a joint. In the joint is a joint capsule, which contains nitrogen. Once the adjustment is made, there is a release of that nitrogen, creating the sound.

A licensed Doctor of Chiropractic is the only trained professional able to give adjustments. Self-adjusting can be dangerous and is not recommended.

Yes, Expressions Chiropractic of Dallas is in-network with over 360 plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United Health Care, Cigna, and Baylor Scott and White.

Physical Therapy is used to strengthen injured areas of the body and improve mobility through exercises and other treatments. Chiropractic care, on the other hand, derives from the Greek words “cheir” meaning hand and “praxis” meaning action, or together, “done by hand.” It is a licensed healthcare profession that emphasizes the body's ability to heal itself by focusing on the musculoskeletal system and the disorders affecting those systems.

Yes, chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat sports injuries when they occur. Many professional athletes utilize a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic to keep them in the game and to help recover from injuries faster.

Yes, chiropractic care can improve posture. When the spine subluxates, the joints do not move correctly, leading to worsening posture. A chiropractor is trained to find the subluxation and correct it using an adjustment, which aligns the spine and allows the joints to move correctly. This promotes better posture, especially when combined with targeted stretching and strengthening exercises.

Chiropractic care has been shown to be highly beneficial and safe for all ages, especially children. Dr. Fowler was first adjusted at 2 months old and has adjusted his own two children since birth.

According to a 2015 study, 100 newborns were assessed by osteopathic doctors for spinal alignment, and 99 out of the 100 newborns checked were found to be misaligned. Another study in 2009, entitled "Safety and Effectiveness of Pediatric Chiropractic," evaluated 5,400 office visits over 577 children. The results indicated a high rate of improvement regarding the children’s presenting complaints, in addition to beneficial effects unrelated to their initial clinical presentations.