Frequently Asked Questions

The best treatment depends on what is causing your symptoms and what you are hoping to accomplish. During your evaluation, we’ll discuss your concerns and assess your condition before recommending a treatment approach. In some cases, combining different types of care may provide the most comprehensive approach to your recovery.

There is no set number of appointments that applies to everyone. The amount of care you need depends on your condition, how long you’ve been experiencing symptoms, your treatment goals, and how you respond to treatment. We’ll discuss your individual needs and monitor your progress throughout your care.

Yes. Patients don’t have to be experiencing a new injury to seek care at SCMC. We work with patients dealing with ongoing pain, stiffness, and mobility concerns. We’ll evaluate your condition and discuss treatment options that may help you work toward improved function and a better quality of life.

Yes. We provide care for patients dealing with injuries and symptoms following auto accidents. Depending on your condition, your care may include chiropractic treatment, physical therapy, massage therapy, or a combination of services. An evaluation can help us understand your symptoms and determine an appropriate treatment plan.

If you were involved in a significant accident, it may still be worth discussing an evaluation with a healthcare provider, even if you feel fine initially. Some symptoms can develop later, particularly with soft-tissue injuries such as whiplash.

Yes. We work with athletes and active individuals dealing with a variety of sports-related injuries. Depending on your injury, physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, or a combination of treatments may be recommended to help restore mobility, strength, and function.

We accept a variety of insurance plans, although coverage can vary depending on your specific plan and the type of treatment you receive. If you’re unsure whether your insurance is accepted or what your benefits include, contact Spring Creek Medical Center before your appointment and we’ll help you determine what information is needed.

Chiropractors treat a wide range of conditions, primarily related to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Some common conditions include:

• Back pain 
• Lower back pain
• Neck pain
• Headaches (including migraines)
• Sciatica
• Shoulder pain
• Hip pain
• Postural problems
• Sports injuries
• Whiplash and car accident injuries
• Chronic pain and stiffness
• Arthritis

Chiropractors undergo extensive training and education to ensure they provide safe, effective care. They typically complete a four-year undergraduate degree followed by a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program, which lasts about four years.

Your first visit with a chiropractor will begin with a thorough consultation, where Spring Creek Medical Center will discuss your health history and any concerns you may have. We’ll then discuss your treatment plan and begin your first chiropractic adjustment, tailored to your needs. Our goal is to ensure you feel comfortable, informed, and confident about your care moving forward.

Chiropractors are specially trained to care for both pregnant women and children. Chiropractic care is not only safe but also highly beneficial for them. Pregnancy can put significant strain on a woman’s body, and chiropractic treatments can help alleviate this pressure, promoting a more comfortable and healthier experience for both mom and baby.

A chiropractic adjustment may involve gentle pressure or controlled movement of a joint. Some patients notice a popping or cracking sound during certain adjustments. Your chiropractor will explain the technique being used and make adjustments based on your comfort level and treatment needs.

A chiropractic adjustment uses controlled, targeted movements to address areas of restricted joint movement, particularly along the spine. The goal is to improve joint mobility and function and help address musculoskeletal symptoms. Your chiropractor will determine which techniques are appropriate based on your individual needs.

Spinal decompression is a specialized treatment that uses controlled forces to address certain spinal conditions. It may be considered for patients experiencing specific types of back or neck symptoms. An evaluation at Spring Creek Medical Center can help determine whether spinal decompression is appropriate for you.

Chiropractic care which focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine. Chiropractors use hands-on spinal adjustments and other manual techniques to help improve alignment, relieve pain, and promote overall health.

Physical therapists, on the other hand, focus on rehabilitation and improving movement. They work with patients to restore function, strength, and flexibility through exercises, stretches, and other therapeutic techniques.

Many patients expect quick results from physical therapy, but the process can take longer depending on factors like the type of injury, your overall health, and how consistently you follow your treatment plan. While it might feel like progress is slower than expected, the goal is to properly address and fix the issue rather than risk further damage or delays in healing. 

The recovery time for injuries with physical therapy varies depending on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the individual’s overall health. Here’s a general idea of recovery times for some common injuries:

Sprains and Strains: Mild sprains or strains can take 2–4 weeks, while more severe cases may require 6–8 weeks of physical therapy.

Joint Injuries (e.g., ACL tears): After surgery, recovery can take 6 months to a year, with physical therapy playing a major role in regaining strength and function.

Back Injuries: Mild back strains may improve in 4–6 weeks, while more severe conditions, like herniated discs, can take several months of therapy.

Shoulder Injuries (e.g., rotator cuff tears): Recovery typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the severity of the injury and if surgery is needed.

Knee Injuries (e.g., meniscus tears): Non-surgical cases may require 4–6 weeks of therapy, while post-surgery recovery can take 3–6 months.

Fractures: Depending on the location and severity, fractures may require 6–12 weeks of therapy after the bone heals.

At Spring Creek Medical Center, physical therapy is generally not meant to be painful. While some discomfort may occur as your body adjusts to exercises or stretches, our goal is to help you improve movement and reduce pain over time. We always tailor treatment to your individual needs and ensure it remains within a comfortable range. If you experience significant pain, it’s important to communicate with your therapist, who will adjust your plan to ensure you’re progressing safely and effectively.

No, you don’t need a doctor’s note or referral. We recommend sending any X-Rays or MRI’s from previous physicians, but it is not required.

You can decide what you are comfortable with. If the therapist is working on your back or neck it’s recommended to remove your shirt, but the massage can be done without removing clothing based on comfort level.

Talk with your massage therapist to create a plan that fits your schedule and lifestyle. Once a week visits are preferable for addressing chronic or acute pain. 

Spring Creek Medical Center’s massage therapist specializes in treatment massage therapy and myofascial release. She has tailored her techniques to address specific injuries and conditions to relieve pain and tension.