How Do I Choose A Chiropractor?

The question most people ask D. James J. Schofield is, “What is chiropractic?”  The question you should also ask yourself are, “How should I choose my chiropractor?” and “How can chiropractic help me?”

As to what chiropractic is, it is a method of examining, diagnosing and treating our bodies for certain health problems.

Most conditions of poor health are the result of some underlying cause within the body which must be found first before correction can be affected, pain relieved and health restored.

Chiropractic has developed special techniques for locating and correcting misalignments and improper movement of the bones of the spine that disturb, impinge or pinch the nerves exiting the spinal column.  These nerves, when irritated, can cause a variety of symptoms.

Chiropractic treatment helps to correct this irritation to the nerves naturally, without the use of drugs, medication or surgery.

How should you choose you chiropractor?

Schofield offers this advice:

“First, of course, your chiropractor, just as any other health practitioner, should be someone in whom you can have trust and confidence.  He also should be someone who can thoroughly understand your particular problem.  That is something you can decide after a personal consultation.

“Second, you must look at qualifications.  My personal record is a four-year undergraduate degree in human biology followed by a five-year degree as a doctor of chiropractic at National College of Chiropractic in Chicago, Illinois.

“These doctoral classes essentially were divided into two halves.  The first half included basic courses all doctors study, such as anatomy, chemistry, pathology and physiology.  The second half dealt more with clinical courses like diagnosis, X-ray, physical therapy and spinal correction called manipulation.

“In addition, I served a one-year internship at various clinics and an in-patient hospital-like facility, all in the Chicago area.

“After graduation, I practiced as director of chiropractic office in New Jersey.  I also passed state board examinations in Pennsylvania, Florida and New Jersey.  Each state examination is different, with varying qualifications.

“Thirty three years ago, I began private practice here in North Hills, where I was born and raised and prefer to be.

“As in all fields of health care, new teaching and new approaches are developing and improving constantly.  To be on top of these, I attend seminars regularly.  While certain basics of chiropractic remain the same, there are always new developments.

“As to how chiropractic can help you personally, if you are suffering from symptoms such as headaches, neck pain, low back pain or other related problems, I urge you to seek my help.

“I first will consult with you about your problem.  Next, a thorough examination will be performed and a report of the examination findings will be explained, including the cause of the problem and what treatment will be required to make the necessary correction.

“We usually find that by then following through on these treatment recommendations, complete or considerable correction of the problem results in symptom relief and restoration of health.  Of course, should the problem not be a chiropractic condition, referral will be made to the appropriate health specialist.

“I urge anyone who has a health problem they feel may be helped by chiropractic to have it taken care of properly so they may enjoy the benefits of a healthy, pain-free life.”

To learn more about non-surgical, drug free health care search for options available to you. Visit the link to find if your insurance coverage covers your chiropractic care.