FAQ

When should I see a chiropractor?

Now! After an injury is certainly a prudent time to visit a chiropractor. Chiropractors are trained in orthopedics, neurology, anatomy, physiology and nutrition so they can treat many different types of injuries and conditions. See the conditions page for some examples. Many feel that chiropractic adjustments are good preventative medicine as well so you don’t even need to have a presenting complaint to receive the benefits of chiropractic care.

Once I begin treatment, will I have to come in forever?

Certainly not; however, some people choose to continue care even after their initial complaints have resolved. A typical course of treatment is 4-8 weeks with varied frequency of visits depending on your condition. After this time, many find that adjustments keep them feeling healthy and pain free and can even help to prevent future injuries. Receiving chiropractic care one time per month or two can keep you on track.

Is chiropractic dangerous?

Chiropractic is not dangerous. This is why chiropractors have one of the lowest malpractice costs of all physicians!

Why does chiropractic work?

Chiropractic works on the source of your pain rather than the symptom. Restoring mobility to a joint removes interference from your nervous system to the tissues of your body. This added flexibility and improved function allows your body to heal itself.

What makes the “pop” noise during an adjustment?

The popping noise is simply the release of an air bubble in a joint caused by a rapid change in pressure. It is not your bones crunching together as some fear.

What makes Dr. Paez a unique chiropractor?

There are several factors that distinguish Dr. Paez’s approach to chiropractic. She spends more time with her patients than the average chiropractor so you feel heard and never feel rushed. The initial visit is 1.5-2 hours. In this time, she can get a thorough understanding of your body and its history. Follow up visits are typically 45 minutes. This allows her to work on several levels of the physical body. Incorporating Craniosacral on the subtle level, chiropractic for the joints, myofascial techniques for the muscles and giving you home exercises for long lasting effect makes her approach holistic and long lasting.

Why does Dr. Paez combine yoga with chiropractic?

Yoga postures and breathing exercises are often assigned as home care during your visit with Dr. Paez. A trained yoga instructor and yogini for over 10 years, Dr. Paez knows that yoga balances strength and flexibility as well as body and mind. This allows you to better hold an adjustment and continue the healing process beyond the treatment room.

What kinds of things can massage help with?

1. Physical relaxation and decrease of stress symptoms
2. Improved circulation, which nourishes cells and improves waste elimination
3. Relief for tight muscles (knots) and other aches and pains
4. Release of nerve compression (carpel tunnel, sciatica)
5. Greater flexibility and range of motion
6. Enhanced energy and vitality
7. Some clinical techniques may help heal scar tissue as well as tendon, ligament, and muscle tears

Massage feels good in the moment, but does it have lasting benefits?

Massage is the gift that keeps on giving! Long after you receive a massage, your body is working to integrate the subtle changes. Over time, as part of a regular health routine, massage can help re-train the body to function in a more relaxed state.

Does a massage have to be painful in order to be beneficial?

Some techniques might cause a mild degree of discomfort during the therapy; however, no method of massage should cause discomfort significant enough to be considered painful. The differences between mild discomfort and pain can be determined by implementing a pain scale that is discussed between therapist and client pre-massage. Whenever a sensation of real pain is experienced, you should inform the therapist immediately so that pressure, depth and techniques can be modified. An “ouch” experience will cause you to tense up against the painful feeling, which is contrary to the therapeutic intention of massage.

Massage has been recommended to me, but I’ve always been uncomfortable with the idea of a stranger touching me. Is this common?

It’s only natural that someone might be nervous about receiving touch from a person they don’t know. It might be good to start with a 30-minute session so you can “try out” the therapist and the environment. Once you become aware of how amazing massage can be, you’ll be hooked!

Do I have to take all my clothes off to get a massage?

No. You can take off as much or as little as you like. You will be asked to undress to your comfort level, and are given full privacy to do so and get under the sheets on the table. Many clients feel comfortable being completely nude, while others like to keep their under-things on. If you have a greater desire for privacy, some types of massage don’t require you to remove your clothes at all.