Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

If this is your first visit to a chiropractor, you may have questions about our services. Following are brief answers to many of the most frequently asked questions. Should you have additional questions, please call us at 952-473-4241 and one of our doctors will be happy to speak with you.


What is chiropractic?

Chiropractic, from the Greek words for "hands" and "concerned with action" is a form of health care based on the belief that many disorders can be diagnosed, treated and prevented with manual manipulation of the spine, joints and soft tissue. Chiropractors are the only health care professionals trained to diagnose and treat spinal subluxations, or slight dislocations or misalignment of the bones in the spine.

The principles of chiropractic date back to ancient times. Hippocrates, the famous Greek physician, believed in manual manipulation. He wrote, "Get knowledge of the spine, for this is the requisite for many diseases." Evidence of manual manipulation of the body has been found in ancient Native American, Egyptian, Syrian, Japanese, Incan, Mayan and other civilizations.

Chiropractic officially began in America in 1895, when a doctor named D.D. Palmer restored a man's hearing by manually adjusting his neck. Two years later, Dr. Palmer founded the Palmer School of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, which still trains chiropractors today.

"The doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease."
— Thomas Edison


How does chiropractic work?

Chiropractors use their hands to detect subluxations in the spine. They may also use X-rays to get a more complete picture of the spine. From there, chiropractors use manual manipulation to restore the bones to their proper position, known as an "adjustment." This process relieves pain, reduces inflammation, restores mobility, enables the body to heal and supports optimum health and wellness.

In addition to adjustments, chiropractors may also use ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), stretching and other therapies. Depending on the nature of the disorder, chiropractors may also refer patients to other physicians, physical therapy or other health care practitioners.


Are chiropractors real doctors?

Yes, chiropractors are also known as doctors. While medical doctors receive an M.D. degree, or Medical Doctor, chiropractors receive a D.C, or Doctor of Chiropractic degree. The fundamental difference between M.D.s and D.C.s is that chiropractors do not use medications or surgery to treat patients. The curricula for medical and chiropractic schools are virtually identical, although chiropractic students have more hours of classroom education than medical school students do. Like medical doctors, chiropractors are subject to the testing procedures, licensing and monitoring by state and national boards. Chiropractors are licensed as health care providers in every U.S. state and dozens of countries around the world.


Is it true that medical doctors don't believe in chiropractic care?

In the 1940s, the American Medical Association (AMA), under the leadership of Morris Fishbein, was strongly opposed to chiropractic. Over the years, the opposition continued, and in the 1980s, the Supreme Court of Illinois found the AMA guilty of conspiracy against the chiropractic profession and was ordered to pay restitution. Since then, most medical doctors have developed a better understanding of chiropractic and its ability to help patients. As a result, many hospitals now have chiropractors on staff, and many chiropractic offices have medical doctors on staff.

At Wayzata Chiropractic, we are committed to truly collaborative health care, and we often refer our patients to medical doctors, and many medical doctors refer their patients to us.


If I start seeing a chiropractor, do I have to stop seeing my other doctors?

No. We believe in whole person, collaborative care and we will work closely with your other doctors and health care practitioners to give you the best and most complete care for your body's unique needs.


If I start seeing a chiropractor, am I going to have to do it for the rest of my life?

Only if you want to! While most of our clients come to us initially because of a specific injury or disorder, the majority continue with regular adjustments for prevention and wellness, long after they have recovered from the original ailment.


Is chiropractic safe for children?

Yes, chiropractic is safe for people of all ages. Infants, children and adolescents can all benefit from regular adjustments, especially as their spine is growing and changing during a very physically active time of life. Chiropractic is also helpful with specific childhood ailments such as colic, scoliosis and other disorders.


Do you take insurance?

Yes, we accept many forms of insurance, as well as auto and worker's compensation. For more information, please call us at 952-473-4241.