Ask The Coaches - Integrated Health of Southern Illinois

Have a specific question for our providers? A question about Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, Nutrition, Massage, Acupuncture or any of our many services? Maybe it’s something about health in general or on a new technique you heard about. Whatever you’re wondering, here’s where you can get your answer. Just type in your question and one of our knowledgeable providers or capable team members will respond as quickly as possible. Please do understand, though, that we cannot provide medical diagnosis over email. Otherwise, any question is fair game. So, ask the coaches!

(QUESTION) "Does Spinal Manipulation Hurt?"

(ANSWER)

No. Spinal manipulation is a painless procedure that utilizes quick movements of the chiropractor’s hands to correct the restricted joint function. Some patients notice a decrease in pain immediately after the manipulation. Some patients experience mild soreness, similar to muscle soreness, the following day. This is a normal response to a spinal manipulation.

(QUESTION) "How long will it take me to get Better?"

(ANSWER)

This depends on what condition the patient has, how long the patient has had the condition, and how the patient responds to chiropractic therapy. Most patients notice a decrease in symptoms within the first 2-3 visits to the chiropractor, and resolution of symptoms within 2-3 weeks of therapy.

(QUESTION) "What will I do on my first visit?"

(ANSWER)

We will obtain information about your injury, current function and pain scale.  Bring along your physician's referral, your insurance card, authorization and wear comfortable clothes.

You will be evaluated by our licensed occupational therapist and he will get to better understand your injury.  Each patient's situation is unique and your plan of care will be set up just for you.  For future visits, we ask that you schedule two weeks out and let us know at least 24 hours in advance if you are unable to make your scheduled appointment.

(QUESTION) "Does insurance cover my visit to chiropractic or therapy?"

(ANSWER)

Medical insurance generally covers treatment. However, each insurance plan is different. You can check with your insurance carrier to determine your coverage. The number to call is located on the back of your insurance card. Or, if you prefer, you can call us today and our staff will be glad to assist you in determining your benefits.

(QUESTION) "How Many Treatments Will I Need for Acupuncture?"

(ANSWER)

The number of treatments needed differs from person to person. For complex or long-standing conditions, one or two treatments a week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, and for health maintenance, four sessions a year may be all that is necessary.

(QUESTION) "The pressure isn't deep enough, but I don't want to insult the massage therapist's technique. What should I do?"

(ANSWER)

Communicate openly with the massage therapist. Keep in mind however that it's a myth that massage therapy has to hurt to be effective.

Some of the most effective types of massage therapy are gentle and do not involve deep pressure or pain. In fact, too much pressure can cause muscles to seize up.

Here is a good rule of thumb -- on a scale of one to 10 where one is no pain and 10 is extremely painful, the pressure should always be less than seven.