Frequently Asked Questions in Erie

A chiropractor is a doctor and a health care professional that focuses primarily on the diagnosis and treatment of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system with an emphasis on hands on treatment through manual adjustment and/or manipulation of the spine.and extremities. Chiropractors have broad diagnostic skills and have training to provide and recommend therapeutic modalities and rehabilitative exercises, as well as to provide ergonomic, nutritional, dietary and lifestyle education and counseling.

Chiropractic care is a hands-on, drug-free approach to health care that includes diagnosing, patient examination and treatment. Chiropractic care can also help to improve the general health of an individual.

Chiropractors are doctors who have atended and graduated from an accredited 4 year graduate/doctoral program and have their specialty training in the neuromusculoskeletal system and the spine.

Chiropractic care was founded in 1895 by DD Palmer after giving the first recorded chiropractic adjustment to the upper cervical spine of a deaf patient returning his ability to hear. DD Palmer’s major contribution to the health care field was the codification of the philosophy, art and science of chiropractic which is based on an extensive study of anatomy and physiology.

Chiropractic works extremely well for most people especially when compliance to care is followed by the patient.

Chiropractic is an extremely safe form of manual medicine and therapy with very little risk for any serious injury.

Some patients may experience some post adjustment soreness and discomfort which is normal. These affects usually only occur after the first few adjustments as the body needs to get use to the treatment much like going to the gym for the first few times.

Every patient and every condition are different. There are several factors that come into play that contribute to a patient’s response to care. Some of those factors include: Age, general health, previous injuries, compliance to outlined care plan and chronic conditions.

Chiropractic care is a very affordable. Chiropractic care is covered by most all insurances. When not covered by insurance, the cost of care would depend on the type of care being prescribed and administered. Speaking with the doctor about your particular treatment needs would help determine the cost of your particular care.

Dr. Perkins has been successfully treating patients in Erie, PA since 1999. Our office focuses on results and cost effective care. We provide a detailed consultation and thorough exam to accurately diagnose your condition which is crucial in developing an appropriate and effective care plan. We treat each patient individually and custom tailor a care plan that fits their needs.

Chiropractors treat most neuro-musculo-skeletal conditions and injuries. Low back pain, neck pain, headaches, whiplash, car accidents, work injuries, shoulder pain, slipped discs, sciatica, bulging discs, herniated discs, arthritis, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, plantar fasciitis, hip pain, Sacroiliac displacement, spinal subluxation, carpal tunnel.

For many conditions, chiropractic treatment can reduce muscle spasms and inflammation and help to restore the structural integrity of the spine and reduce pressure on the sensitive neurological tissue through a combination of specific manipulations and therapeutic modalities(i.e. decompression therapy, ultrasound, EMS, laser) and massage therapy. Treating early on after an injury or accident helps improve the likelihood of resolving the injury and symptoms associated with the injury.

The popping sound that is sometimes heard during a Chiropractic Adjustment is known as “Joint Cavitation”. This is the result of small pockets of air built up in the joints of the spine being released. This release actually helps to reduce the amount of pressure on the spine.

Most chiropractors have a 4 year Bachelor’s degree with appropriate pre-medical sciences prerequisite courses prior to entering a Chiropractic school. Most chiropractic schools are a 4-5 year academic curriculum.