A chiropractic adjustment is defined as short lever, high velocity controlled thrust by hand or instrument that is directed at specific articulations to correct vertebral subluxations.
It comprises the adjustment of vertebral joints, extremity joints, and cranial sutures. Adjustments include evaluating the patient’s history, intended use/athleticism, health state and prior x-rays / tests. A chiropractic exam includes a neurological exam, stance and gait analysis and motion and static palpation.
WHY ANIMAL CHIROPRACTIC?
- Neck, back, leg, and tail pain
- Muscle spasms and nerve problems
- Injuries from slips, falls, and accidents
- Jaw or TMJ problems, difficulty chewing
- Event or sports injuries
- Post-surgical care
- Bowel, bladder, and internal medicine disorders
- Maintenance of joint and spinal health
- Healing/helping with chronic internal medicine disorders
INDICATIONS FOR CARE
- Lameness, trouble getting up and down, athletic competitions
- Surgery involving anesthesia, seizures or neurological problems, recovery from illness or injury
- Geriatric household pet, behavior or mood change
- Chronic health problems that do not resolve as expected
Want to read more about the benefits of chiropractic care? Check out the St. Louis Post-Dispatch article “Health clinics for poor offer chiropractic care to reduce addiction to painkillers”
HOW CHIROPRACTIC WORKS
- The bones of the spine and joints are maintained in a specific alignment.
- The nerves which surround each joint and vertebral articulation are in constant communication with the central nervous system, brain and all organs.
- When even a subtle change in the alignment occurs, it is called a subluxation.
- Subluxations affect the nervous system, local muscles, joints and even distant organs, glands and body functions.
WILL AN ADJUSTMENT HURT?
Most animals accept both the exam and the adjustment without signs of pain. When a painful area is found, the doctor will use the gentlest techniques to reduce pain before delivering an adjustment. In cases of acute or extreme pain, we will often delay the complete adjustment until your pet can be relaxed.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER AN ADJUSTMENT
Many animals will show immediate improvement after an adjustment. Sometimes there is a 24-48 hour period of tiredness and some animals may require a few sessions to resolve acute pain. Often, with chronic health problems, the doctor will want to see your animal several times to maintain and re-establish normal function of the joints and nervous system.
FOR OPTIMAL RESULTS
Be certain to share all the information with the doctor about your pet’s care from health care providers, including diet, supplements and medications. Be sure to comprehend and clarify post-adjustment exercise and home therapy recommendations and pay attention to exercise, collar, harness and conditioning recommendations.
AVCA CERTIFICATION
Dr. Frick is an AVCA Certified Doctor, a certification from the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association that represents a significant professional achievement. The certification is a voluntary process that verifies the doctor has met the standardized criterion and professional competencies.
