Chiropractic is the art and science of finding and correcting dysfunctions in the joints of the body as well as in the muscles that move them. A chiropractor does this with the most natural and non-invasive means possible. The specific diagnostic and therapeutic techniques used to accomplish this goal vary widely from chiropractor to chiropractor.

Most patients come to chiropractors because they have back pain or headaches, but chiropractors can treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal disorders. Go to Conditions Treated to view a partial list of conditions treated by Dr. Bivrell.

Through addressing these dysfunctions in the body, the chiropractor can lessen or eliminate the patient’s symptoms. Evan more importantly, the chiropractor will balance the patient’s musculoskeletal systems and perhaps diet so as to afford him or her long ranging benefits that extend well beyond the initial problem. A well-balanced body can increase a person’s ability to stave off degenerative arthritis, fight chronic illnesses, and, most importantly, help a person to live life to its fullest potential.

The most important process of your chiropractic treatment is the initial examination. It is during this process that the underlying cause of your complaint is identified. This is done by taking a thorough history, postural analysis, gait analysis, neurological exam, orthopedic exam, and movement pattern analysis.

Movement pattern analysis is a process of looking at a series of common movements that everyone performs throughout the day, such as walking or squatting, and then identifying any abnormalities in that movement. In some people, a certain muscle may have become shortened and chronically tight. Or perhaps a set of muscles have become chronically weak over time, causing symptoms elsewhere in the body. This identification process is subtle and complex, but once the source of the problem is uncovered treatment has the potential to unravel a problem which has not responded to other types of care.

Treatment sessions typically consist of spinal manipulation of any joint restrictions found during the initial exam. To accomplish the manipulation, there are several techniques available ranging from traditional adjustments where the chiropractor uses his hands to adjust the skeletal structure to gentler techniques that do not involve a "popping" sound. As mentioned above, much time is devoted to correcting any muscular dysfunction with gentle stretches, specific exercises on floor mats or gym balls, and special exercises on rocker and wobble boards if needed. Traditional treatment options such as ice, moist heat, electric muscle stimulation, manual traction, and ultrasound are also available.

In addition, we have a massage therapist on site for those patients who require more intense muscular work or for those needing relaxation time. Finally, nutritional counseling and ergonomic advice are offered as well. Please feel free to call or e-mail us with any additional questions you may have.