CHIROPRACTIC FAQs in Springfield VA

Chiropractic is a form of alternative medicine concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially of the spine.

The main chiropractic treatment technique involves manual therapy, especially manipulation of the spine, other joints, and soft tissues, but may also include exercises and health and lifestyle counseling.

Chiropractic care is a form of healthcare that primarily involves the assessment and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, often through manual adjustments, manipulation, and other techniques, with the goal of improving spinal and joint alignment to alleviate pain and enhance overall well-being. At Thrive, our top-rated chiropractor Dr. Christina Wellner, provides the best quality and integrative techniques for each of her patients.

The word ‘chiropractic’ comes from the Greek words cheir (meaning ‘hand’) and praktos (meaning ‘done’), i.e., done by hand. Manual healing methods can be traced back to ancient times; however, it was not until the late 19th century that the chiropractic profession in the United States began to take shape.

Daniel David Palmer is widely credited with giving the first chiropractic adjustment in 1895. He also established the first chiropractic school in 1897 in Davenport, Iowa. From that point forward, Palmer and others continued to refine chiropractic manual adjusting techniques as well as study how manual manipulation can relieve pain and improve function. While spinal manipulation continues to be a centerpiece of chiropractic care, modern chiropractors have developed a variety of practice styles, featuring different therapies and modalities, to address patients’ needs. They practice a holistic approach to health care that generally excludes drugs or surgery.

Yes, but they do not prescribe medication. Today, highly specialized training is required to graduate and earn licensure. Chiropractic school is quite similar to that of medical school, especially during the first 2 years of the 4-year program. A Chiropractic program consists of 4 academic years of professional education after completion of a 4-year undergraduate degree.

Chiropractic doctors are well trained to refer to other health care providers when clinically necessary. It is for this reason that a chiropractor’s training includes courses such as Cardiology, Gastrointestinal, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Pathology amongst others.

Chiropractors specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders, often through manual adjustments to improve spinal and joint alignment. They aim to alleviate pain and improve overall health. At Thrive, Dr. Christina Wellner, provides specialized treatment plans in order to obtain your health goals.

Absolutely! Dr. Christina Wellner in her professional career has been fortunate enough to help thousands of patients. Chiropractic care has been found to be effective in managing certain musculoskeletal conditions, such as back pain and neck pain, pregnancy related pains, sports injuries, sciatica, disc injuries, neuropathy, scoliosis, auto-immune related issues, and so, so much more!

Yes! Chiropractic care is considered safe and effective when performed by licensed and trained professionals. Dr. Christina Wellner throughout your care at Thrive, will continue to make sure that you are always treated to your comfort level.

Sometimes. Common side effects of chiropractic adjustments may include soreness, stiffness, and mild discomfort which are all perfectly normal.

The number of sessions required varies depending on the individual, the condition being treated, and the treatment plan established by the chiropractor. Some people find relief after just a few sessions, while others may need ongoing care.

The cost of chiropractic care varies. At Thrive we are in-network with most commercial insurances as well as we accept auto-accident cases and workers compensation. Your personal commercial insurances decide your coverage, co-pay, co-insurance, etc. Our front desk will be more than happy to do insurance benefits check for you as well we have package and monthly subscriptions for cash options.

At Thrive, we have treated countless different musculoskeletal aliments and musculoskeletal/ nervous system disorders. Throughout Dr. Christina Wellner’s career, she has treated patients from a 12-hour old infant to a 101 triathlete! Here are just some of the common conditions and issues she may treat:

• Back Pain: Acute or chronic back pain, including conditions like lower back pain, upper back pain, and sciatica.
• Neck Pain: Neck pain can result from various causes including whiplash, post-operative fusions, scoliosis, chronic forward head posture, and can provide adjustments to improve neck mobility and alleviate discomfort.
• Headaches and Migraines: Some individuals seek chiropractic care for relief from tension headaches or migraines. Chiropractic adjustments may help reduce the frequency and intensity of these headaches.
• Joint Pain: Dr. Christina Wellner can address joint pain and discomfort in various areas of the body, such as the shoulders, hips, knees, and wrists.
• Sciatica: Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates down the leg due to compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. Chiropractic adjustments can be used to relieve pressure on the nerve and reduce pain. Dr. Wellner also provides specific spinal decompression traction techniques to help sciatica and disc related issues.
• Sports Injuries: Chiropractors often work with athletes to treat and prevent sports-related injuries. They may also help with injury rehabilitation. Dr. Christina Wellner is a Crossfitter and has been an athlete for most of her life. She specializes in athletic care and treatment.
• Whiplash: Individuals who have been in car accidents or experienced sudden jolts to the neck may develop whiplash, which can be treated with chiropractic care.
• Posture and Ergonomics: Dr. Christina Wellner can provide advice on improving posture and ergonomics to prevent musculoskeletal problems and reduce the risk of developing issues like text neck or computer-related strain.
• Scoliosis: Chiropractors may offer treatment options for individuals with scoliosis, a condition characterized by abnormal curvature of the spine. At Thrive, we have x-rays in house to properly diagnose scoliosis and provide you with the best treatment available.
• Pregnancy-Related Pain: Dr. Christina Wellner specializes in treating pre- and post-natal mothers.

Absolutely! Dr. Christina Wellner specializes in the treatment of pre- and post-natal mothers as well as she is Webster Certified (technique certification to treat pregnant patients). As a mom of two boys herself, Dr. Wellner has helped thousands of women throughout their pregnancy journey. She also has a close relationship with OBGYNs, midwives, and doulas in the Northern Virginia Area.

Yes! Chiropractic adjustments are safe and gentle approach to creating proper movement within the joints and spine.

The popping or cracking sound that can occur during a chiropractic adjustment is often due to the release of gas bubbles from the synovial fluid in the joint. It's a normal and harmless occurrence.

No way! Dr. Christina Wellner tailors her approach to each patient's unique needs and conditions. Adjustments and treatment plans are individualized based on assessment and patient-specific factors such as age, location, comfort level, etc.

Please no. Self-adjustments can be risky and are generally discouraged. Chiropractors are trained professionals who use their knowledge and experience to provide safe and effective adjustments to patients.

Absolutely! Research has shown time and time again the effectiveness of Chiropractic care for infants to teenagers. Dr. Christina Wellner has seen many, many children in her career and is a proud member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association as well as treats her two boys on a regular basis. Please click here to see more Research Published Articles.