Your Chiropractic & Wellness Questions Answered

At Sewickley Chiropractic Center we believe that informed patients make better health decisions. Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often. If you don’t see your question here, please contact our office—we’re always happy to help.

General Chiropractic Questions

What conditions do chiropractors treat?

Chiropractors commonly evaluate and treat conditions affecting the spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system. Patients often seek chiropractic care for back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, sports injuries, work injuries, auto accident injuries, and joint pain. Every patient receives an individualized examination to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Is chiropractic care safe?

Chiropractic care is widely recognized as a safe, conservative treatment option when provided by a properly trained chiropractor. Before beginning treatment, we perform a thorough consultation and examination to determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate for your condition.

Will my adjustment hurt?

Most patients experience little or no discomfort during an adjustment. Many report immediate improvement in movement and reduced stiffness afterward. Some people may experience mild soreness for a day or two, similar to what you might feel after beginning a new exercise program.

Do I need X-rays?

Not every patient requires X-rays. If imaging is clinically indicated based on your examination or medical history, we will discuss the reasons with you before proceeding.

How many visits will I need?

The number of visits depends on your diagnosis, the severity of your condition, your overall health, and your treatment goals. Some patients improve within just a few visits, while others with chronic conditions may require a longer course of care.

Back Pain

Can a chiropractor help back pain?

Many patients seek chiropractic care for acute and chronic back pain. Treatment may include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, therapeutic exercises, and recommendations to improve posture and movement.

What causes lower back pain?

Lower back pain may result from muscle strain, poor posture, arthritis, disc problems, repetitive stress, sports injuries, lifting injuries, or prolonged sitting. A comprehensive examination helps identify the likely source of your symptoms.

Should I use ice or heat?

Ice is often helpful during the first 24-48 hours after an acute injury to reduce inflammation. Heat may be more appropriate for muscle tightness or chronic stiffness. The best choice depends on your specific condition.

Neck Pain & Headaches

Can chiropractic care help headaches?

Some headaches are associated with neck joint dysfunction, muscle tension, or posture. After evaluating your condition, we can determine whether chiropractic treatment may be appropriate or whether another type of evaluation is recommended.

Why do I wake up with neck pain?

Sleeping position, pillow support, stress, arthritis, or prolonged computer use can all contribute to morning neck pain. Identifying the cause helps guide treatment recommendations.

Sciatica

What is sciatica?

Sciatica refers to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, often causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that travels from the lower back into the buttock and leg.

Can chiropractic care help sciatica?

Depending on the underlying cause, chiropractic care may be one component of a treatment plan for sciatica. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine whether chiropractic treatment is appropriate for your condition.

Weight Loss

What does your weight loss program include?

Our weight loss program may include metabolic weight loss drops, nutritional counseling to support weight loss with or without the use of GLP-1 medication, body composition monitoring, exercise guidance, food journaling, and other supportive services designed to help patients develop sustainable healthy habits. Recommendations are individualized based on each person’s goals and health history.

Do GLP-1 medications work better with lifestyle changes?

GLP-1 medications can be effective for many people, but healthy eating, regular physical activity, adequate protein intake, and long-term lifestyle habits remain important parts of successful weight management.  We work with patients to achieve their weight loss goals and respect their decisions to take or not to take GLP-1 medication.

Low-Level Light Therapy

What is Low-Level Light Therapy?

Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) uses specific wavelengths of light to support the body’s natural healing processes. It is used for certain musculoskeletal conditions and other applications depending on the patient’s diagnosis.

Is light therapy painful?

No. Most patients feel little or no sensation during treatment, and sessions are generally well tolerated.

New Patients

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring a photo ID, insurance information (if applicable), a list of medications, and any recent imaging or medical records related to your condition.

How long is my first visit?

Your first appointment typically includes a consultation, health history review, examination, x-rays if necessary, and discussion of treatment recommendations. The exact length depends on your individual needs, but in most cases the first appointment lasts approximately 60 minutes.

Do you accept insurance?

Insurance coverage varies by plan. Our staff will gladly review your benefits and explain any expected out-of-pocket costs before treatment whenever possible.  We are currently in-network with most plans including all Blue Cross / Blue Shield products, UPMC, United, Aetna, Cigna, and Medicare.  Additionally we accept all auto and work comp insurances.

Still Have Questions?

Our goal is to help you understand your health and feel confident about your care. If you have additional questions, we’d be happy to speak with you.

Sewickley Chiropractic Center
409 Broad Street
Sewickley, PA 15143
Phone: (412) 741-5451