Chiropractors/Neck,arms,back

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Question
When I go to see my chiropractor and something is bad with my spinal canal would the doctor tell me to see a specialist or would he just try to treat me.


Answer
Debbie,

This is a good question.  The chiropractor is supposed to be a spine care specialist.  We are taught in chiropractic college to examine and diagnose spine conditions.  What a chiropractor does after schooling is something else, and there is a significant element in the profession that ignores clinical standards in exchange for providing treatment based on fringe methods or peculiar philosophical ideas.  That being said, if your chiropractor did a history, physical examination, and reviewed the possibilities as to why you have a problem with your spine, then it would also be reasonable to assume that he/she would provide appropriate referral if needed.  If you have a problem that falls outside of what a chiropractor treats, e.g. a fracture, tumor, infection, aneurism, etc., then that chiropractor must honor the professional responsibility to refer to the most appropriate provider, e.g. a PCP, orthopedist, etc.  It works the other way, also, that if your PCP/MD examines you for back pain, then you would deserve a referral to the chiropractor.  

'Hope this was helpful.

Dr. G

www.drgillman.com

Chiropractors

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Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP

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21 Years in practice: I can answer any question regarding chiropractic and sports medicine treatment. Mostly, I can help the unknowing public understand what is safe, valid, reasonable and evidence-based, and what kinds of unscrupulous chiropractors and fraudulent methods to stay away from. I have an advanced specialty degree in Chiropractic Sports Medicine. I have experience treating elite and Olympic athletes.

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Doctor of Chiropractic Diplomate: American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians

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