Patient Becomes Doctor-Kinda

Patients that complete the Basic Training Program are expected to have an understanding of how their spine ages, why they are in the current condition and how to improve or maintain where they currently are. We re-examine, give an objective assessment of their spines health and then ask the patient to choose one of three options of care.

The three choices are.....

1) Conditioning--This is for patients that want to continue to improve the health and function of their spines. Stretching, adjusting and moving the spinal tissues on a regular basis as well as continue with home exercises so their spines get stronger, more flexible and coordinated. This is most appropriate for patients that want to be better than they are now, want to exercise regularly or even want to compete in athletic events or marathons. Frequency of treatment varies but typically, adjusting the spine once every week or 2 weeks would fall into this category.

2) Maintenance--This is what a patient chooses that are happy with where their spines health is presently. They do not desire to improve the health and coordination of their spine, just limit what gravity and life does to it over the long run. They will do some home exercises but will not make it a priority. Frequency of care typically will be once every 3-4 weeks. This care will slow degenerative arthritis and limit its effects over time. It will decrease the frequency and severity of acute episodes of pain.

3) Pain management--This is for patients that would prefer to just treat the pain. As long as it is not hurting then it's not a problem for them. These patients come in as needed (PRN) when the pain is present or severe enough. It does little to slow degenerative arthritis or the effects of gravity over time. Frequency of care is longer than once every 4 weeks. Over the long run, these patients usually end up in the office more frequently than the conditioning or maintenance patients because of the progressive nature of spinal degenerative arthritis. Some of these patients end up with some level of chronic pain that can not be completely resolved. In some cases, co-management with Pain Medication, injections or surgery can be the end result.

Regardless of what a patient chooses, we care for them like all of our patients. We never want patients to come in that do not want to be here. Clear communication and understanding between the Doctor and the Patient are required and expected. If a patient wants to move into or out of one type of care to another, they just need to let us know.

Yours in Health and very Sincerely,

James D. McLelland D.C.
Chiropractic Centers of Short Pump.
www.shortpump.chirocenters.com

Chiropractor Richmond | Chiropractor Short Pump | Chiropractor Henrico | Chiropractor Glen Allen