What conditions do chiropractors commonly treat?
Here at Active STL, we specialize in treating the musculoskeletal (MSK) system which entails Muscles, Tendons, Ligaments, Bones, Joints, and Nerves.
Here are common MSK conditions we treat: neck pain, back pain, headaches, migraines, sciatica, whiplash, herniated or bulging discs, TMJ dysfunction, and common sports injuries involving the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, hips, knees, ankles, and feet.
What should I expect during my first visit?
During your first visit, expect to arrive 10-15 minutes before your appointment to fill out the appropriate paperwork and change into appropriate attire. Your insurance card and driver’s license will be scanned by the front desk for your profile. During your visit, vitals will be performed, your past medical history will be discussed and an in-depth examination will be performed before treatment. This allows the doctor and the patient to understand the dynamics of the case and allows for any questions to be asked and answered. Treatment will be performed if deemed appropriate.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed will vary depending on the condition being treated and the treatment goals. Treatment may vary based on acute or chronic pain symptoms. In acute cases, this might involve 1-3 visits per week for 2-4 weeks. Chronic conditions may require longer treatments. Many factors play a role in the length of treatment which is why treatments may vary as we tailor treatment to each individual’s goals.
Do you accept health Insurance?
Yes. We are currently in-network with the following insurance companies – UHC, Anthem BCBS, Aetna, and Medicare. Don’t see your insurance? That is okay, you can still be seen in our clinic. Our front desk will provide you with an estimated cost of care. You will then work with the chiropractor to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs.
What does it cost?
The cost of treatment varies depending on the specific therapy you need, the number of sessions recommended, and whether you’re using insurance or paying out-of-pocket. At our clinic, we aim to make high-quality care accessible, so we offer transparent pricing.
Factors that may influence cost:
- Type of treatment: Our cash service therapies such as dry needling, class IV laser therapy, and shockwave therapy may have different costs per session.
- Insurance coverage: If your insurance plan covers chiropractic or other therapies, this can reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
- Treatment plan duration: The total number of sessions required will affect the overall cost.
- Co-pay Vs Non-Co-pay: Your insurance may require you to pay a certain amount each visit until your deductible is met.
What are cash services?
Cash services in a chiropractic clinic refer to treatments or services that patients pay for directly, without using insurance. These services are often elective, complementary therapies that enhance patient care but may not be covered by typical insurance plans. Offering cash services allows patients to access specialized treatments without the restrictions of their insurance company and allows us to offer the best quality care for your treatment plan. These specialized therapies include Dry Needling, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy, and Class IV laser
Will I need X-rays or other imaging before starting treatment?
Not every patient needs X-rays or other imaging before starting chiropractic treatment. At Active STL, our chiropractors assess each patient’s condition during the initial consultation to determine if imaging is necessary. X-rays or other forms of imaging may be recommended if:
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- There’s a history of trauma or injury.
- You have symptoms that suggest a more serious underlying issue.
- Your chiropractor needs more detailed information to guide treatment safely.
If imaging is needed, the chiropractor will discuss this with you and explain how it fits into your personalized treatment plan.
Do I need a referral to see the chiropractor?
In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a chiropractor. Chiropractors are primary care providers, so you can typically book an appointment directly. However, insurance requirements can vary—some plans may ask for a referral from a primary care physician before covering chiropractic services. It’s best to check with your insurance provider or give the clinic a call to confirm their policy.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
A chiropractic adjustment is a hands-on technique used to restore movement, relieve pain, and enhance joint function in the spine and the rest of the body. Movement-based chiropractors focus on enhancing mobility, ensuring that the body moves optimally. Through precise, gentle adjustments, chiropractors target restricted joints to improve your body’s natural movement patterns. In a movement-based approach, adjustments are often combined with exercises and movement-based therapies. This combination not only helps to relieve immediate pain but also addresses underlying movement dysfunctions, promoting long-term mobility, flexibility, and overall wellness.
What is soft tissue therapy?
Soft tissue therapy is a treatment focused on relieving tension, reducing pain, and improving flexibility in the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia (the connective tissues). This therapy involves various techniques, such as massage, stretching, and trigger point therapy, to target areas of tightness or discomfort. In a chiropractic setting, soft tissue therapy is often used alongside spinal adjustments to enhance recovery, improve movement, and promote overall wellness. It’s especially beneficial for patients dealing with muscle stiffness, sports injuries, and chronic pain conditions, helping to restore proper function and support the body’s natural healing process.
What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive and effective treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured tissues. Shockwave delivers high-energy acoustic waves to the targeted area which triggers the natural healing response, promoting increased blood flow, tissue regeneration, and pain relief. It is typically used to treat tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and other musculoskeletal disorders. Shockwave is considered effective for chronic conditions that have not responded well to other conservative treatments.
What is a Class IV Therapeutic Laser?
Class IV laser therapy is an advanced, high-intensity treatment that uses laser light to penetrate deep into tissues. Its purpose is to promote pain relief, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair. This therapy stimulates cellular repair and enhances circulation, helping to accelerate recovery from injuries, reduce chronic pain, and improve mobility without the need for surgery or medication. Class IV lasers deliver higher power levels, allowing for more effective treatment of conditions such as musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, and joint disorders.
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique used by our certified chiropractors to relieve muscle pain and improve function. It involves inserting thin, solid filiform needles into trigger points or tight muscles. The goal is to release muscle tension, reduce pain, and enhance the body’s process by stimulating blood flow, promoting healing, and neuromuscular function. Dry needling is often used in conjunction with other treatments offered here in the office.
Dry needling is not the same as acupuncture. While both use thin needles, dry needling focuses on releasing muscle trigger points and relieving pain based on Western medicine principles, whereas acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and targets specific energy pathways, or meridians, to restore balance in the body.