A Holistic Approach to Chiropractic

Dr Bruce L. Salzinger D.C. CCSP Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician Kudzu Profile

Chiropractic is a form of health care that is drugless, noninvasive, and actively promotes health.

Chiropractic care is holistic, meaning that the entire body and a person's lifestyle are examined and treated. When Dr. Salzinger works with a patient, the cause of the patient's physical problem is addressed and lifestyle factors that may affect the problem (such as diet, posture, exercise, and others) are modified to speed recovery and prevent recurrence.

Chiropractic care uses natural health methods such as exercise, nutrition and diet, and lifestyle modification to promote wellness. If you have already had tests (such as x-rays) regarding your problem, bring them and any reports to Dr. Salzinger's office.

Be prepared to discuss when the problem started; how it started; how long you have had it; what makes the problem worse or better; treatments you have tried so far and how well they worked; and any other information you believe is relevant. Bring notes regarding comments or questions you want to ask Dr. Salzinger.

Chiropractic care is known (but not exclusively) for its use of the adjustment, sometimes called manipulation. An adjustment is a precise procedure in which Dr. Salzinger exerts specific corrective pressure at specific places on your spine or other joint. When a thorough examination reveals joints that are not in proper function, adjustments are applied to correct joint alignment/mobility, relieve associated muscle and nerve tension, improve balance and assist healing. In most cases adjustments are performed manually by Dr. Salzinger.

You will be asked to complete a comprehensive health history, including past health problems, diet, exercise, occupation, and other information of importance. Examination may include palpation (examination by touch), x-rays, and range of motion, strength, neurological, orthopedic, blood and/or urine tests.

Besides the adjustment, Dr. Salzinger may use physiotherapies such as electric muscle stimulation, ultrasound, moist heat, ice, massage, or others. Dr. Salzinger will also take the time to counsel you about the prevention of disease and the methods for living a healthy lifestyle.

You may not receive an adjustment at every appointment. The treatment you receive will be designed specifically for you -- based on your symptoms and examination findings. Your progress under chiropractic care will be carefully monitored. The subjective improvement as well as the objective findings will be noted, and your treatment plan will be modified to meet your changing condition. Communication between your chiropractor and other health care providers will be encouraged for your benefit.

Chiropractic graduates must have a minimum of six years of college education. Chiropractic education's foundation in the basic life sciences includes coursework in anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, physical and laboratory diagnostics, radiology, physiology, pathology, nutrition, and public health. In addition, chiropractic education involves a detailed study of clinical sciences as well as clinical experience. In fact, chiropractic education is similar to medical and osteopathic education except that these practitioners emphasize surgery and pharmacology while Doctors of Chiropractic focus on the diagnosis of musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders and treatment through clinically and scientifically established conservative procedures.

This education means that Doctors of Chiropractic have the expertise to diagnose, treat, and/or manage many different health problems. If diagnosis indicates that another type of care is more appropriate for you, a referral will be made.

Discussion and open communication about your health concerns are always encouraged. Please feel comfortable to address any of your concerns with Dr. Salzinger or his staff at any time -- so that your goals and ours will combine to achieve maximum improvement in your health!