At Advanced Spine & Rehab in Mesa, AZ 85206, the chiropractic care process begins with a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging if necessary. Our fully trained staff of medical professionals uses the latest chiropractic techniques to develop individualized care plans. Treatment typically includes spinal adjustments, rehabilitative exercises, and soft tissue therapy. This holistic approach addresses the root cause of pain—supporting long-term recovery and overall wellness.
What to Wear for a Chiropractor Appointment?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy movement and access to your spine and joints. Avoid wearing skirts, dresses, or tight jeans, and opt for athletic wear or stretchy fabrics. If imaging is required, you may be asked to change into a gown. Also, remove belts, jewelry, and bulky accessories before your session to ensure comfort and accuracy during the adjustment process.
What is Considered Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, hands-on health care discipline focused on diagnosing and treating neuromusculoskeletal disorders, especially those related to the spine. It includes spinal adjustments, manual therapies, rehabilitative exercises, and lifestyle counseling. The goal is to restore proper alignment, reduce pain, and improve overall physical function. Chiropractic care is commonly used to treat back pain, neck pain, headaches, joint issues, and support recovery from injuries or accidents.
How Do I Prepare for My First Chiropractic Visit?
To prepare for your first chiropractic visit, bring a detailed medical history, including current medications, past surgeries, and any recent imaging like X-rays or MRIs. Wear comfortable clothing and arrive a few minutes early to complete any paperwork. Be ready to discuss your symptoms, lifestyle habits, and health goals. Staying hydrated and having a light meal beforehand can also help you feel more comfortable during your evaluation.
How Do Chiropractors Know Where to Adjust?
Chiropractors determine where to adjust by using a combination of physical examination, patient history, palpation (manual assessment of the spine and joints), range of motion tests, and diagnostic imaging like X-rays or MRIs. They assess spinal alignment, joint function, and nerve response to identify areas of restriction or dysfunction. This evidence-based approach ensures adjustments are precise, safe, and tailored to the patient’s specific condition.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Chiropractic?
Long-term chiropractic care can lead to improved spinal alignment, enhanced mobility, reduced chronic pain, and better posture. Patients often report fewer headaches, less muscle tension, and improved function in daily activities. Over time, consistent care may also contribute to better nervous system function, reduced reliance on pain medications, and a proactive approach to wellness and injury prevention. Results vary, but regular chiropractic support promotes lasting musculoskeletal health.
Common Symptoms Someone Would Notice That Would Prompt Chiropractic Care?
Persistent Back Pain
Ongoing discomfort in the upper, mid, or lower back may signal spinal misalignment, muscular strain, or disc issues. Chiropractic care addresses these causes directly through targeted adjustments and therapy.
Neck Pain or Stiffness
Limited range of motion, tension, or soreness in the neck can result from poor posture, injuries, or tech neck. Chiropractic treatment restores mobility and reduces inflammation.
Frequent Headaches
Tension and cervicogenic headaches often stem from misaligned vertebrae or tight neck muscles. Chiropractic adjustments relieve pressure and restore proper nerve flow, reducing headache frequency.
Joint Pain or Dysfunction
Pain in shoulders, hips, knees, or other joints may be due to improper biomechanics or spinal misalignment. Chiropractors can improve joint mobility and reduce inflammation.
Numbness or Tingling in Limbs
These sensations may indicate nerve compression, such as sciatica. Chiropractic adjustments can relieve nerve pressure and restore normal sensation and function.
Poor Posture
Noticeable slouching, rounded shoulders, or spinal curvature can lead to chronic pain. Chiropractors correct alignment and provide guidance on posture improvement.
Top 5 Medical Causes of Symptoms That Prompt Chiropractic Care
Herniated or Bulging Disc
Discs pressing on spinal nerves can cause pain, numbness, and weakness, especially in the back, neck, or limbs, depending on the disc location.
Spinal Misalignment (Subluxation)
Misaligned vertebrae disrupt nerve communication and joint function, often causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the spine or extremities.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Age-related disc wear leads to inflammation, joint dysfunction, and chronic pain, particularly in the neck or lower back.
Sciatica
Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve results in sharp, shooting pain, tingling, or numbness down one leg from the lower back.
Poor Ergonomics/Postural Stress
Prolonged sitting, improper lifting, or repetitive strain causes musculoskeletal imbalance, leading to chronic pain and postural dysfunction.
Top 5 Medical Treatments for Chiropractic-Related Symptoms
Spinal Adjustments
Manual or instrument-assisted techniques realign the spine, relieve pressure on nerves, improve mobility, and promote the body’s natural healing processes.
Therapeutic Exercises
Customized stretching and strengthening routines support joint stability, correct imbalances, and prevent future injuries by improving posture and musculoskeletal function.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Techniques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and enhance range of motion in affected areas.
Electrical Stimulation (E-Stim)
Low-level electrical currents help reduce inflammation, decrease pain, and promote muscle re-education after injury or prolonged dysfunction.
Spinal Decompression Therapy
This traction-based method relieves pressure on spinal discs and nerves, helping treat herniations and degenerative conditions without surgery.
Summary
Chiropractic care addresses a range of musculoskeletal symptoms including back pain, neck stiffness, headaches, and nerve-related issues. Common causes include herniated discs, spinal misalignment, and postural stress. Treatment often involves spinal adjustments, therapeutic exercises, and soft tissue therapy, all designed to restore alignment, reduce pain, and improve function. With a holistic, non-invasive approach, chiropractic care offers lasting relief and supports overall wellness, making it a trusted option for managing both chronic and acute conditions.
Meet The Professional Staff
At Advanced Spine & Rehab in the Phoenix East Valley, we invite you to experience individualized care delivered with compassion, understanding, and integrity. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you find real solutions and lasting relief from pain in a calm, welcoming environment. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or managing chronic discomfort, we’re here to support your journey to better health. Let us help you restore balance, function, and well-being—every step of the way.