Table of Contents


Why should I see the doctors of Middle Tennessee Spine and Joint for my back, neck, or muscle pain?

Dr. Jacob and Dr. Elizabeth have undergone extensive studies and specialized training in the fields of musculoskeletal anatomy, biomechanics, sports injuries, and rehabilitative exercise. As a result, when it comes to sudden or chronic injuries of the joints or muscles, the doctors of Middle Tennessee Spine & Joint are best suited to meet your needs.

According to Jens Chapman, M.D., a professor of orthopedics and neurological surgery at the University of Washington, “Chiropractors are a satisfying choice to manage acute back pain.” Further, a 2002 study funded by the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality reported a third more patients are satisfied with the back treatment and advice they get from chiropractors compared with medical doctors.

Back to top

Aren’t all chiropractors the same?
Not at all! Many people are surprised to learn that most chiropractors practice differently. Based on our studies, travels and clinical research we understand that the combination of joint and muscle manipulation, rehabilitation and therapeutic exercises offers patients superior, results-oriented care.

Our knowledge of anatomy and the body’s mechanics coupled with our techniques provides us with the insight to know when a joint should be adjusted, when muscular or rehabilitative therapy is appropriate and when an integrated treatment program is necessary. For our patients, our comprehensive, evidence-based approach produces results in an efficient timeframe.

Back to top

Will I have to come back for a long time?
No. Our greatest reward is returning patients to their active lifestyles in the shortest timeframe possible. We base our care on the patient’s individual needs and case complexity-not on predetermined treatment plans. In addition to reducing patients’ tension and discomfort, we teach our patients ways to prevent this tension or injury from returning. Our active care approach requires patient participation. The closer you follow our recommendations the faster and longer you are likely to remain free of pain and enjoy maximum results.

Back to top

How do I know when I have completed my treatment?
The end of treatment is usually based on the achievement of mutual goals established by you and your doctor. In addition to achieving pain relief, we encourage our patients to focus on reaching activity and performance goals as a measurement of care completion. Why? The temporary relief of pain does not always lead to long-term success. While many of our patients enjoy immediate pain relief following a treatment, it may take a follow-up visit to completely address the dysfunction and prevent this injury or tension from recurring. Clinical research proves that our active approach to health care will lead to lasting physical improvements if performed according to your doctor’s instructions. Thus, adhering to your doctor’s treatment programs can prevent future office visits and costs.

Back to top

What effect does a chiropractic adjustment have on joints?
Research proves that chiropractic manipulation can actually prevent arthritis by restoring proper motion to the joint. Medical textbooks will tell you that it is the loss of motion that causes joint damage and arthritis. Further, the restoration of joint function provides the cartilage and disc (in the case of the spine) with improved blood supply. Better blood supply means better bodily nourishment and overall physical health.

Back to top

What makes the “crackling noise” when an adjustment is delivered?
While some people get nervous about the noise an adjustment may produce, the sound is not derived from the bones themselves. The audible stems from a lubricant, called synovial fluid, which is made up of dissolved gases located in every joint. An adjustment releases the build up pressure and these gases, which were created by the joint’s restriction. The emission of these nitrogen gases produce the “popping” sound often heard when an adjustment is administered – not from the movements of joints.

Back to top

Should an adjustment ever hurt?
Most chiropractic adjustments are painless. In fact, adjustments help most patients enjoy immediate pain relief. However, if the patient has suffered from a recent injury, adjustments can sometimes cause slight discomfort as the tissues surrounding the dysfunction are usually inflamed. That is why our doctors offer a combination of muscle and joint manipulation to treat complex cases and minimize discomfort.

Back to top

Is it safe to adjust myself?
Concern has been raised over the safety of people who try to adjust themselves. Research proves that only chiropractors can ensure an adjustment is performed safely. Why? Often times, the “self adjustment” is producing movement in joints near the restricted area – causing harmful friction to surrounding joint structures and further aggravating the restricted area. The best advice: Don’t try to do it yourself. Seek the expertise of your chiropractor.

Back to top

Do chiropractors refer patients to other specialists?
Like other doctors, chiropractors belong to a large and growing network of health care professionals. Our doctors are well educated, recognizing risk factors and signs of disease. If our patient’s need is best addressed by a medical doctor or specialist, we refer the patient every time.