Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At Stevens Creek Chiropractic the People of San Jose Frequently Ask:

Is Chiropractic Safe?
YES! Chiropractic treatments are non-invasive. In seeking treatment it only makes sense to start with that which can harm you least. Compared to other medical treatments such as drugs and surgery, chiropractic is by far the safest. It is estimated that 140000 people in the USA die each year from drug-related reactions and nearly 100,000 people die as result of medical errors. Insurance companies who evaluate the risks of all professions, and charge a premium based on the risk the profession poses. Chiropractors have by far the lowest insurance premium of all medical providers. Even though thousands of chiropractic adjustments are made each year, only a few complaints are registered, and thus the chiropractic malpractice insurance rates are but a fraction of other doctors.

What is an Adjustment?
A gentle, specific thrust which initiates movement of a vertebrae toward its proper position. The Dr. Levine usually delivers the adjustment by hand, but occasionally uses other instruments. The purpose of the adjustment is to correct a spinal subluxation.

What is a Subluxation?
Subluxation refers to a spinal bone (vertebrae) that is not in its right position or not moving in its normal range of motion. Misaligned vertebrae irritate nerves, joints, and blood vessels. This will affect the way the organs and muscles of your body communicate with your brain. Subluxations are the cause of many pains and dysfunctions in muscles and organs. The body’s natural ability to heal itself is greatly improved with the subluxation removed and the power is restored.

Is the Adjustment Painful?
Most chiropractic adjustments are not only virtually painless; most people actually feel great relief. It is important to keep in mind that the doctor is not wrenching on the spine but delivering a specific gentle force in a specific direction. In cases of a recent injury, inflamed tissue may react to adjustments and cause some discomfort. Application of ice after treatment may soothe any irritation. This is usually only after the first adjustment while your body adapts to its new abilities.

What Causes the Popping Sound?
The sound is no reason to be concerned, it is not coming from the bones breaking or rubbing against other bones. A joint is where two bones come together and move with one another. The joint has a capsule around it. During the adjustment the bones of the joint are moved into proper position. This causes a vacuum to be formed and then released creating a “pop” . If you pull your tongue from the roof of your mouth you will achieve the same effect.

Will Repeated Chiropractic Adjustment Lead to Arthritis?
On the contrary, chiropractors often care for people with arthritis. Osteo-Arthritis is caused by abnormal joint motion. The chiropractic adjustment restores proper motion. Proper motion prevents extra wear and tear so it promotes joint health.

Is it Bad to Crack my Own Back or Neck?
While people might have the right idea by trying to relieve pressure on the joints, the "cracking" or "popping" of one's back or neck is not the same as specific chiropractic adjustment. The problem usually keeps coming back, which should be a clear indication that there has been no real adjustment. The cause of the spinal tension, the fixated or jammed vertebrae, has not been corrected. Even a chiropractor cannot adjust him/herself. You should not try to do it yourself, either.

Who is too Young or Old for Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care can benefit everyone. Some people are more delicate due to age, illness, preferences or other conditions. Dr Levine is knowledgeable in
chiropractor can detect these problems while they're easy to correct.

Do I Need to be Referred by a Medical Doctor?
No you do not. Chiropractors licensed physicians. As a health care professional Dr. Levine will make referrals for patients to other specialties when needed as he is trained to recognize risk factors and signs of disease that are outside his scope of practice.

Can Chiropractors Prescribe Drugs or Perform Surgery?
Absolutely Not, Chiropractors help prevent surgery and do our best to keep people off of drugs. Dr. Levine’s purpose is to assist your body’s ability to heal itself. When the nerve energy of your body is not interfered with you are able to heal and feel great.

If I Start Treatment do I Have to Keep Coming Forever?
No, of course not. Chiropractic care will help you get out of pain, achieve a better state of health, and help you to maintain your health. How much care and what your own goals are is totally up to you.

Do I Need Chiropractic Even If I Am Not In Pain.
Yes. Most people do come in to get out of pain. This is like going to the dentist with a toothache. Even when out of pain it is a good idea to fix the problem that caused the pain. When you are problem and pain free it is a good idea to get checked out periodically rather than wait till you have pain. This is like seeing a dentist every six months rather than wait for a toothache.

If you should have a question that your would like Dr. Levine to answer here, please call or email your question to Dr. Levine

Office Phone: (408) 241-1777
Office Fax: (408) 241-1771

info@stevenscreekchiropractic.com