Lum Chiropractic FAQ

Have a question about chiropractic care? See the list of Frequently Asked Questions listed below. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, feel free to contact Dr. Lum at (408) 975-9753.

What is chiropractic?
What are some of the benefits of chiropractic care?
When should I see a chiropractor?
What is an adjustment?
Do chiropractors treat only back pain?
Can I continue to see my regular doctor while seeing a Chiropractor?
Should children see a chiropractor?
Should I see a chiropractor while I'm pregnant?

Learn more about the spine here.

What is chiropractic?
Chiropractic care focuses on our body's natural ability to take care of and heal itself. In chiropractic, doctors believe that with proper structure and alignment, the body is its most healthy. Sometimes, however, this ideal structure and alignment can be affected by injuries, accidents and daily stress. When these occur, the spinal bones or vertebra can become misaligned. Because these bones protect the human nervous system, these misalignments can put pressure on the spine and send messages of ill health to the brain. The brain, in turn, can send messages to the body that suggest pain, numbness, aches, etc. Instead of sending a "we feel good" message, the brain, by way of the nervous system, may send out a message about pain, stiffness, or ache.

The main different between conventional medical care and chiropractic is how a doctor chooses to treat the symptoms that result from these messages our bodies send. A doctor of chiropractic, much like a conventional doctor, will often prescribe Tylenol or Ibuprofen, ice, heat, etc. to minimize the symptom of pain. However, a chiropractor will also perform a chiropractic adjustment to help realign the spinal bones to their proper, healthy form.

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What are some of the benefits of chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care can:
• Eliminate or lessen pain from headaches, neck and back pain
• Improve movement in your neck, shoulders, back and torso
• Improve your posture
• Help prevent work-related muscle and joint injuries
• Lead to enhanced athletic performance
• Improve your flexibility and range of motion
• Relieve pregnancy-related back ache
• Correct gait and foot problems

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When should I see a chiropractor?
Most people end up going to a chiropractor when they are in pain. Common complaints include back and neck pain, headaches, whiplash, strains and sprains from daily activities, repetitive strain injuries, work and sports-related injuries, arthritis, restricted movement in the back, shoulders, neck or limbs. Dr. Lum sees patients who have been in car accidents as well. Often patients come to our office after they have exhausted other medical treatments or because they seek natural pain relief and healing, and want to avoid taking prescription drugs. Many Lum Chiropractic patients come for other reasons such as improving their overall health, wellness care, or for pain management. Many patients arrive at our clinic with pain and decide to continue care to avoid suffering from such pain ever again. For most patients, one of the greatest gifts of chiropractic care is continued health and living pain free. If any of these descriptions fit your situation, you should certainly come visit us, or call for a personal consultation with Dr. Lum.

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What is an adjustment?
An adjustment is a highly skilled and precise movement usually applied by hand to a joint of the body. An adjustment loosens the joint to restore proper movement and optimize function. When a joint is adjusted, a gas bubble escapes causing the popping noise you may have heard about. Chiropractic adjustment techniques have been researched extensively. Complications are rare and side effects, such as temporary soreness, are usually minor.

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Do chiropractors treat only back pain?
This is a common misconception about chiropractic care. In fact, chiropractors work with all sorts of health conditions from joint pain to allergies. However, because chiropractors work on the back with adjustments, many people believe chiropractic care is just for back pain. This is far from the truth. Patients come to Lum Chiropractic for a variety of health concerns including carpel tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, headaches, TMJ, allergies, and more.

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Can I continue to see my regular doctor while seeing a Chiropractor?
The simple answer is yes. Dr. Lum works regularly with other physicians to offer all patients the best care possible.

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Should children see a chiropractor?
Absolutely! Dr. Lum regularly treats many children (and their parents) as well as his own two children. Aside from regular maintenance care to avoid the common colds and flues, Dr. Lum has worked with children suffering from common childhood illnesses including chronic ear infections, asthma, colic, and sinus infections.

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Should I see a chiropractor while I'm pregnant?
Yes, you definitely should. Chiropractic care is safe, all natural and extremely beneficial for both you and your developing baby. Regular chiropractic treatments during your pregnancy are a perfect way to naturally boost your immune system and relieve common prenatal symptoms such as low back pain, lower abdominal/pelvic pain, joint pain & stiffness, shooting/burning pain & numbness (sciatica), migraines, nausea, hypertension, insomnia, and more. Chiropractic treatments have also been shown to promote optimal birthing position, which can help prevent C-sections, reduce the risk of breech deliveries, and even labor & reduce delivery time.

Dr. Lum is specially trained to diagnose and treat common prenatal conditions. His gentle and precise chiropractic treatments can help you maintain and improve balance and alignment of the your spine and pelvis. Proper spinal alignment helps keep your nervous system free from interference, which helps you and your baby stay healthy. The healthier and more relaxed you can be throughout your pregnancy, the healthier and more relaxed your baby will be too. It's never too early, or late, during your pregnancy to begin prenatal chiropractic treatment. Call Dr. Lum anytime to discuss the best treatment options for you and your baby at (408) 975-9753.

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