FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


How many years of training does it take to become a chiropractic doctor?

A chiropractor has a doctorate in chiropractic care, and most have a bachelor's degree in a science such as biology, chemistry, or anatomy prior to entering a chiropractic college. Some chiropractic students have a masters degree or Ph.D., and even a few M.D.'s have a chiropractic degree. Chiropractic College accreditation is granted through the United States Department of Education - in accordance with federal law and regulations, CHEA (Council on Higher Education Accreditation) - adherence to established criteria, ASPA (Association of Specialized and Professional Accreditors) - voluntary compliance with "Code of Good Practice" and Council of Chiropractic Education CCE-I - conformance with "Model Standards." Chiropractors must pass the National Board Examinations of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners in order to sit for State Board Examinations for the state(s) in which they are planning to practice.

Additionally, the California Board of Chiropractic Examiners has laid out a specific list of annual requirements to continue to practice Chiropractic. To summarize, four (4) years of undergraduate college and four (4) academic years of Chiropractic College, for a minimum total of eight (8) years of higher learning beyond high school. Then there are specific requirements for annual continued education licensure renewal . Additionally, both Drs. Karen Borges and David Borges have voluntarily taken chiropractic post graduate sub-specialty courses to continue their excellence in providing chiropractic treatment in Tahoe.

What can I expect on my visit?

On your first visit you will have a consultation to determine whether or not chiropractic is appropriate for you. If your condition is a chiropractic condition and you wish to continue then we perform you will undergo an examination which includes orthopedic and neurological testing and postural analysis. If necessary on-site x-ray studies may be done. You will report our findings to you, explaining in understandable terms how chiropractic can help you whether you want pain relief only or lasting spinal correction. A financial consultation will be done as well so that you will be aware of the cost of treatment. How long you decide to benefit from chiropractic is always up to you.

Are all patients adjusted the same way?

No. This office provides you with two chiropractic specialists. Gonstead - traditional adjusting and Activator - instrument adjusting. Both Chiropractic techniques are highly regarded chiropractic techniques and have been proven effective. Some patients need or prefer one kind of an adjustment over the other. Some patients have both. Both doctors have studied for many years to bring back to South Lake Tahoe the best that the chiropractic profession has to offer. Each patient's spine and care plan is unique. With 24 moving bones in the spine, each of which can move in seven different directions, we see a wide variety of spinal patterns. The other joints of your body (knee, elbow, jaw, etc.) can be injured and treated with chiropractic care, too. Each patient's care is custom-tailored for his or her age, condition and health goals.

Can I adjust myself?

No. Some people can make their joints "pop," but that's not an adjustment! Where, when and how to make adjustments takes years to master. Dr. David and Dr. Karen adjust one another.

How many adjustments will I need?

The number of adjustments varies with each patient and their individual health issues and goals. Pain relief occurs usually in only a few adjustments. Making long lasting changes in order to optimize your health and lifestyle and eliminate pain reccurrences requires a series of adjustments. Lifestyle chiropractic care patients continue getting adjustments beyond pain relief in order live life to the fullest! Studies have shown that with continuing chiropractic care you may use less medication, need fewer surgeries and live more actively. Ultimately you will save money. Whatever your health goals are, we will help you achieve them. If you suspend care for any reason, you will be welcomed back when you decide it is best for you. The decision is yours!

What if, in the unusual situation, chiropractic doesn't work?

We have working relationships with healthcare providers in many disciplines and will refer you to other specialists if necessary. Your health is our only goal.

More about the science of chiropractic

Since the establishment of the Chiropractic profession in 1895 it has been known as the largest natural health profession. Chiropractors seek to treat the cause of the problem in order to resolve it rather than mask it. Chiropractic allows for the natural innate forces that made the body to heal the body. More and more people (most recently the US Armed Forces) have turned to Chiropractic for their health care needs for its outstanding results in healing quickly and naturally.

For answers to chiropractic questions click either:

California Chiropractic Association

International Chiropractic Association of California

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