Frequently Asked Questions

At Gillis Family Chiropractic, we believe every patient deserves care that is specific to their unique spine. That's why, when clinically necessary, we take digital X-rays before beginning treatment. While an examination provides valuable information, X-rays allow our doctors to see what cannot be felt with the hands alone. They help us evaluate the alignment of your spine, identify structural changes, rule out certain conditions, and determine the safest and most effective way to care for you. X-rays also help us locate areas of spinal stress, degeneration, or abnormal movement that may be contributing to your symptoms. Just as importantly, X-rays help us avoid making assumptions. Rather than providing the same adjustment to every patient, our doctors use the information gathered from your X-rays to develop a personalized care plan based on your individual needs. At Gillis Family Chiropractic, your safety is always our priority. We only recommend X-rays when they are clinically appropriate and beneficial to your care. By taking the time to fully understand your spine before beginning treatment, we can provide care that is both precise and personalized.

Yes! Chiropractic care is considered safe during pregnancy when provided by a chiropractor trained to care for expecting mothers. Pregnancy places incredible demands on a woman's body, and as your baby grows, your posture, center of gravity, and pelvic alignment naturally begin to change. These changes can place additional stress on the spine, joints, muscles, and ligaments, often leading to discomfort in the low back, hips, pelvis, and sciatic region. Our doctors use gentle, pregnancy-specific techniques and positioning to ensure both you and your baby remain comfortable throughout each visit. Every adjustment is tailored to your stage of pregnancy, comfort level, and individual needs. Many women seek chiropractic care during pregnancy to help improve mobility, reduce tension, support pelvic balance, and promote overall comfort as their bodies continue to change. Our goal is not only to help relieve discomfort but also to support your body's natural ability to adapt throughout pregnancy.

Most patients find chiropractic adjustments to be comfortable and even relieving. While every person's experience is different, adjustments are typically gentle and performed with your comfort in mind. Some patients notice immediate improvement in their mobility or discomfort, while others may experience mild soreness similar to what you might feel after exercising. This is a normal response as your body begins adapting to improved movement and function. Our doctors take the time to explain each step of the adjustment process and tailor their techniques to your individual needs, age, and comfort level. If you are nervous about being adjusted or have concerns, we encourage you to let us know. We're happy to answer your questions and ensure you feel comfortable throughout your visit. Our goal is to make every patient feel informed, confident, and cared for from the moment they walk through our doors.

The answer depends on your individual condition, health goals, and how your body responds to care. No two patients are exactly alike, which is why we create personalized recommendations based on your examination findings and, when necessary, your X-rays. Some patients are seeking relief from a recent injury or discomfort, while others choose chiropractic care as part of their long-term wellness routine. Early in care, more frequent visits may be recommended to help improve spinal function and allow the body to adapt. As your condition improves, visits are often reduced based on your progress and goals. Our doctors will discuss your recommendations in detail and explain why they are appropriate for your specific situation. Throughout your care, we monitor your progress and make adjustments to your care plan as needed.

A chiropractic adjustment is a gentle, precise movement applied to a specific joint in the spine or extremities to help restore proper motion and improve overall function. When joints become restricted or aren't moving properly, they can affect the surrounding muscles, nerves, and tissues. An adjustment is designed to improve joint mobility, reduce tension, and support healthy nervous system function. Many adjustments produce a popping or cracking sound. This sound is simply the release of gas from within the joint, similar to cracking your knuckles. It is completely normal and is not an indication of bones rubbing together or "breaking."

Absolutely! Chiropractic care isn't just for adults. Children of all ages, including infants, can receive gentle, age-appropriate chiropractic care. Simply put, if you have a spine, you need a chiropractor. As children grow, they experience countless physical stresses. From learning to crawl and walk, to carrying heavy backpacks, participating in sports, and spending time on phones, tablets, and computers. These everyday activities can affect posture, movement, and spinal function. Pediatric adjustments are much gentler than adult adjustments and are specifically adapted to a child's size, age, and individual needs. Many parents choose chiropractic care as part of their family's overall wellness routine to support healthy growth, movement, and development.

Your first visit typically lasts between 45 minutes and one hour, allowing our team to fully understand your health concerns and goals. During your appointment, you'll meet one-on-one with one of our doctors to discuss your health history, current symptoms, and any questions you may have. We will then perform a thorough chiropractic examination, posture assessment, and, if clinically necessary, digital X-rays to gain a complete understanding of your spine and overall health. Rather than making assumptions, we believe in gathering the information needed to create a care plan that is specific to you. In most cases, recommendations are reviewed during a separate Report of Findings appointment, where the doctor will explain your results, answer your questions, and discuss the best path forward. Our goal is to ensure you leave your first visit feeling informed, confident, and comfortable with your care.

Yes! Chiropractors have earned a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree after completing years of rigorous education, clinical training, and passing both national and state licensing examinations. Perhaps the greatest difference between chiropractors and medical doctors isn't the level of education—it is their approach to patient care. Medical doctors are trained to diagnose and treat disease through medications and surgery when appropriate. Chiropractors focus on the relationship between the spine, nervous system, and overall body function, using hands-on care to improve movement and help the body function at its best. At Gillis Family Chiropractic, we use detailed examinations, posture analysis, and digital X-rays when necessary to better understand your condition before creating a personalized care plan. We also emphasize education and preventative care, helping patients understand how proper spinal health can support long-term wellness rather than simply addressing symptoms after they occur.