FAQ

1.       Will I need x-rays?

Most patients will not require x-rays. Dr. Guarino may recommend x-rays to be taken in cases of acute trauma or in cases when treatment does not progress as expected.

2.       Do Chiropractic adjustments hurt?

No.  Dr. Guarino tries to ensure his patients comfort by selecting the most appropriate adjustment, which requires the least amount of force.  Many patients report a feeling of relaxation and calm after an adjustment.

3.       Do chiropractic adjustments have any side effects?

Many patients report some immeadiate relief or some improvement within 1-2 days. The most common side effect is temporary soreness.

4.       How many visits will I need?

The number of visits needed is usually dependant on a number of factors, such as severity and duration, and varies patient to patient. As a paient begins to improve the frequency of visits will decrease. Periodic maintenance or preventative visits may be recommended for optimal health and wellness. It is often a misconception that once you go to a chiropractor you have to go all the time for the rest of your life. This is not true. Remember that as a patient, you always have the final say about your health.

5.       Is chiropractic care safe?

Yes. Chiropractic treatment is a non-invasive hands-on therapy that is safe for people of all ages. If Dr. Guarino determines that chiropractic care is not right for you, he will refer you to the appropriate physician.

6.       What is the sound that occurs with a chiropractic adjustment?

The “popping” sound that occurs with a chiropractic adjustment is the shifting of gases and lubricating liquid within the joint, due to the quick change in pressure.  This is similar to what occurs when opening a soda can. Although the sound is interesting, it does not determine the quality or value of an adjustment.

7.       Can I adjust myself?

No.  Some people are able to make their back or neck “pop” or “crack”, but this is not a chiropractic adjustment.  A chiropractor has years of training to make sure the chiropractic adjustment is very specific in its vector, depth, and force as to effect the necessary joint. Even a Chiropractor must consult with a colleague to receive chiropractic care.

8.       What symptoms indicate that I may need chiropractic care?

Some common complaints, which suggest that you may benefit from chiropractic care are: muscle or joint aches and pains, soreness, stiffness, muscle spasm, diminished mobility, or feelings of numbness or tingling.

9.       What if I have no symptoms, should I still see a chiropractor?

Even if you are not experiencing any symptoms, chiropractic care can be beneficial as a preventative therapy. Due to all the physical stresses in our daily lives, we are not always aware of how well our bodies are functioning.  If our bodies are not up to their optimal health and function, this may translate to certain neuro-musculoskeletal issues later on.

10.   What kind of education does a chiropractor have?

A doctor of chiropractic must first complete an extensive list of undergraduate prerequisites before being accepted into an accredited chiropractic institution. They must then complete a four year graduate level program of studies and internship. Before being able to practice, a chiropractor must pass three separate national board examinations, as well as a provincial licensing examination. The province of British Columbia also requires that all chiropractic doctors must attend a certain number of continuing education programs for relicensure.

11.   What should I expect on my first visit?

Dr. Guarino will take a thourough history to gather information about your presenting complaint as well as to get a picture of your past health history.  This will be followed by an examination to determine all aspects of your complaint, as well as to understand how it is affecting your body as a whole.  In the majority of cases you will also receive your first treatment.