Frequently Asked Questions

What is chiropractic care?

Chiropractic treatment is a discipline that focuses on identifying and correcting spinal misalignments that can result in lower back pain, headaches, and other ailments.

 

What is the Activator Method?

An Activator is a hand-held device that uses a controlled thrust to realign the spinal structures. The Activator Method is very gentle and has been used for over 50 years to provide back pain relief.

 

What is a subluxation?

A subluxation is a misalignment of the spinal bones.

 

What can cause a vertebral misalignment or subluxation?

Any number of daily activities can cause a subluxation, including prolonged sitting, sleeping wrong, or lifting something incorrectly. Falls and other types of accidents and injuries can also cause spinal subluxations.

 

Does insurance cover chiropractic care?

Most insurance policies provide at least partial coverage for chiropractic treatment. Our office staff can confirm your specific benefits and discuss possible payment plans.

 

Why haven’t I noticed results after my first visit?

How soon you see results depends on your particular treatment, the extent of the subluxation, and lifestyle factors that can either improve or exacerbate your condition.

 

Why do most problems require more than one adjustment?

Muscular imbalances alter the normal biomechanics of your spine. Your muscles and tendons have to be retrained to reduce stress on the spine and ensure that it remains stable and flexible.

 

Is chiropractic care safe for expectant mothers?

Chiropractic treatment is a safe and efficient means of providing sciatica and lower back pain relief during pregnancy.

 

Will I have to continue chiropractic care for the rest of my life?

Whether or not you choose to continue your chiropractic care depends on your symptoms and goals. Some of our patients only come for sciatica pain relief or some other acute symptom. Others use chiropractic care long-term as preventative therapy and a way to maintain optimal health.

 

Can I perform chiropractic adjustments on myself?

Chiropractic adjustments are not something that should be attempted by amateurs or those with limited training. While it may be possible to crack or pop your spine in a way that mimics a chiropractic adjustment, you may not be targeting the areas with limited mobility and can actually cause more damage.

 

Are chiropractors required to have a license?

All chiropractors are required to be licensed in the state where they practice.

 

Is chiropractic care addictive?

While chiropractic treatment is not addictive, you may find yourself enjoying feeling more energetic, balanced, and relaxed.

 

What types of conditions can be treated with chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment for a number of conditions, including migraines, arthritis, herniated and bulging discs, and numbness due to pinched nerves to name just a few.

 

Is chiropractic treatment safe?

Chiropractic treatment is safe for patients of all ages. Dr. Tucker has treated patients ranging in age from two weeks to 94 years old.

 

Why does Dr. Tucker use the Activator Method?

The Activator Method uses high-speed pulses directed at the target area. This allows for a more precise adjustment than can be delivered manually. The method eliminates the joint cracking and popping associated with manual adjustments. As a result, most patients experience less discomfort with the Activator method than with manual adjustments.

 

Is chiropractic treatment the same for all patients?

No. Your course of treatment will depend on the exact source of your pain.

 

Where did you get your chiropractic education?

Dr. Tucker has been a practicing Gainesville chiropractor since 1981. He graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1979.