Please explore some of our frequently asked questions regarding chiropractic, acupuncture, microcurrent therapy and wellness care services. If you do not see your answer here, please call us at 314.725.8600 or contact us.


What kind of education and training do Doctors of Chiropractic receive?

Chiropractors receive an education that emphasizes neuromuscular diagnosis and treatment. Preparation includes study in classroom and laboratory work in sciences such as anatomy, physiology, public health, microbiology pathology and biochemistry. Specializing in chiropractic involves extensive clinical training in adjusting techniques, clinical and radiological diagnosis, neurology, orthopedics, physiology and nutrition.

Chiropractic education requires a university degree and involves a minimum of four years of formal education consisting of courses in anatomy, clinical sciences, pathology, histology, chiropractic sciences and technique, clinical diagnosis and treatment, physiology, nutrition and research, followed by a clinical internship. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are required annually to maintain certifications and liscenses.

What can I expect on my first visit?

We will conduct an evaluation focused on your chief health concern or complaint. We may ask questions about your medical or health history, the health history of your family, your dietary habits and work and social activities. We will perform an examination guided by clinical judgment to focus your treatment most effectively. This may include orthopedic tests, neurological tests, physical exam, spinal exam or radiological studies or other lab work. All of these elements are important components of your total health profile and vital to us in evaluating and treating your problem.

Is chiropractic safe?

Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations of joints are extremely safe. The risk factor is estimated to be in excess of a million to one.

Does chiropractic adjustment hurt?

Every patient is unique, just as every treatment is unique to every patient. While a patient may feel no discomfort during one session, it is conceivable that they would experience discomfort following a different adjustment. It all depends on the affected area(s), and the severity of the affliction. While some may experience discomfort during or after a given adjustment, many people do not. All attempts are made to minimize discomfort including steps taken in the office and with home care instructions.

Is there anything I can do at home to optimize treatment?

Depending on the treatment protocol, we may recommend that you implement stretching or other exercise routines to maximize the benefit of any given treatment.

Because the adjustment itself releases histamines into the bloodstream, drinking additional water will help flush these histamines from your system as they could potentially cause inflammation. Ice and/or heat recommendations may be given also.

How long does chiropractic treatment take following the initial evaluation?

Depending on your specific issue, visits two to three times per week for several weeks is a general guide. Again, every patient is different, and there is never just one standard to work from. If we are not effecting your desired change in that period, we will take a different approach.

Is there an age limit for chiropractic patients?

There is no age limit. For our youngest and oldest patients we use a gentler adjustment technique. With senior citizens we are always aware of osteoporosis concerns and limitations.

What happens in an acupuncture session? 

Normal treatment involves several tiny and delicate needles being inserted strategically into locations around your body. Usually they are painless and remain in place for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Each session is completely individualized. Normally, you rest on your back on the treatment table. We use only sterile, single-use needles.

The needles are placed along one of 12 meridians – or pathways – to “acquire the Qi” (pronounced “Chee”) and activate the desired change. According to Chinese medical theory, the Qi is the individual’s life force that is concentrated along the energy pathways.

Does acupuncture hurt?

You may experience a tingling sensation. This sensation may travel along the line of the meridian.

How long is the average Microcurrent Therapy session?

To reduce the pain and increase to rate of healing, an average treatment lasts 15-30 minutes. Microcurrent therapy works best in combination with Chiropractic adjustments and therapeutic exercise. For optimal results, we recommend it be performed several times.

How effective is Microcurrent Therapy?

The effectiveness of microcurrent therapy clinically documented in 1990 by L. A. Wallace in a study of 1,531 patients with a large variety of diagnoses. Ninety-four percent of the patients experienced a reduction in pain during the first treatment. The average number of treatments to achieve a zero/one pain level on a zero to ten scale was 3.8. Ninety percent of the subjects studied achieved a zero/one pain level in less than ten treatments. (Wallace. LA. MENS Therapy: Clinical Perspectives Vol. 1. Cleveland: privately published. 1990.)

Is exercise appropriate after an adjustment?

It depends on your situation and level of injury. We will assess your condition and offer suggestions for returning to activities.

Is there anything I can do outside of the office to relieve the pain of rheumatoid arthritis?

In many cases, the answer is “yes”. We recommend keeping the affected joints moving and transitioning to a more anti-inflammatory diet.

How can I alter my diet for better care?

We advise that you shop the perimeter of the grocery store where fresh vegetables, meats and dairy products are located versus the interior where the processed foodstuffs are shelved. We recommend meal-planning so that the majority of meals are home-cooked and use a minimal amount of pre-packaged, convenience foods. The food that you give your body is the fuel that it consumes for your daily functions. We believe that your overall health is enhanced when your body has proper nutrients.

What insurance and payment can I use?

We are a provider for United Healthcare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Medicare.

We will file other insurance, but please call to verify. In these cases, we will require payment at the time of service and will submit all paperwork for you.

We accept cash or check only. We do not accept credit cards.