6837-106 Falls of Neuse Rd.
Raleigh, NC, 27615
(919) 846-0100
What
is chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts based upon the
understanding that good health depends, in part, upon a normally
functioning nervous system (especially the spine, and the nerves
extending from the spine to all parts of the body). "Chiropractic"
comes from the Greek word chiropraktikos, meaning "effective
treatment by hand." Chiropractic stresses the idea that the cause of
many disease processes begins with the body's inability to adapt to
its environment. It looks to address these diseases not by the use
of drugs and chemicals, but by locating and adjusting a
musculoskeletal area of the body which is functioning improperly.
What conditions benefit from chiropractic care?
Although chiropractic is used most frequently to relieve low back
pain, studies have found it to be effective for a variety of
conditions, such as migraine headaches, neck and shoulder pain,
carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and infantile colic.
Does Chiropractic hurt?
Under normal circumstances, adjustments don't hurt. The patient may
experience a minor amount of discomfort during the adjustment which
lasts only seconds.
Is Chiropractic safe?
Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are extremely safe. The
risk factor is estimated to be in excess of one million to one.
What kind of education and training do doctors of chiropractic
have?
Chiropractors receive an education that emphasizes neuromuscular
diagnosis and treatment. Preparation for the practice of
chiropractic is concentrated on three areas of learning; basic
training in the biological and health sciences (anatomy, physiology,
histology, biochemistry, clinical and radiological diagnosis);
specialized training in the chiropractic discipline (theoretical
studies, practice, diagnosis and applications); and extensive
clinical training.
The State of North Carolina requires doctors requesting
licensure in the state have a four year undergraduate degree as
well as a doctorate in chiropractic science issued by an
accredited chiropractic college. Dr. Ayres has an advanced
certification issued by the American College of Chiropractic
Sports Physician.
Have any studies been published showing what chiropractic is
effective for?
Several studies have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in
relieving back pain. More recent studies have shown chiropractic to
be effective in treating infantile colic and migraine headaches.
What can I expect on my first visit?
The first thing a chiropractor will do is ask you about the health
complaints about which you are chiefly concerned. The DC will also
ask about your family and dietary habits, other care you may have
had (chiropractic, osteopathic, medical, etc.), your job, and other
questions designed to help determine the nature of your illness and
the best way to go about treating the problem.
A physical examination will be performed in accordance with your
DC's clinical judgment, which may include x-rays, laboratory
analysis and other diagnostic procedures. In addition, a careful
spinal examination and analysis will be performed to detect any
structural abnormalities which may be affecting or causing your
condition. All of these elements are important components of your
total health profile, and vital to the doctor of chiropractic in
evaluating your problem.
What
is chiropractic? 
