FAQ's

What conditions does a chiropractor normally treat?

Our doctors at Gulf Coast Spine & Sport, LLC treat a wide variety of conditions, including:

• Low back pain
• Sciatica
• Neck pain
• Headaches
• Shoulder pain
• Knee and foot pain
• Tennis and golfer’s elbow
• Piriformis syndrome
• Sports Injuries
• And many more!

Does getting adjusted hurt?

At GCSS, we make every effort to decrease discomfort and make your experience a pleasurable one. Being adjusted should not be painful, however, minimal soreness can accompany an adjustment or soft tissue work. Usually this soreness will last about one day and then subside. Because every patient is different, it is impossible to tell if you will feel soreness following treatment.

Why is there a popping sound when a joint is adjusted?

When your joints are adjusted and you can hear the “popping” sound because there is a change in pressure within the joint, which results in gas bubbles being released from that joint. Not every adjustment requires the “popping” noise, but it is very commonly present.

What should I bring with me to my first appointment?

If you have any X-rays or MRI’s that have been taken in the past, please bring those along for the doctor to review. If you wish, you may also print off the new patient paperwork from our website and bring that to your first visit as well.

What should I wear for my appointments?

Athletic clothing is best to wear for all appointments. Athletic clothing will allow unrestricted movement and make it easier for the doctor to assess your situation. The typical gym or work-out outfit is best: t-shirt, shorts, sweats, yoga pants, etc.

What is Active Release Techniques (ART)?

ART is a patented, state of the art soft tissue system/movement based soft tissue technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. ART is currently the GOLD STANDARD in soft tissue treatment. All professional sports teams have ART providers to give their athletes the best possible care. Now you can receive top notch care for your soft tissue injuries as well!

How do I know if I have a soft tissue injury?

It is always best to let one of our doctors at GCSS evaluate your condition to determine the cause of your pain, but as a general rule of thumb, if certain movements increase your pain/discomfort level you may have a soft tissue injury. Acute soft tissue injuries can happen during sporting events, car accidents, etc.

What conditions are effectively treated by ART?

Headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow are just a few of the many conditions that can be resolved quickly and permanently with ART. These conditions are often a result of overused muscles.

What is LiteCure laser therapy?

Laser therapy is a non-invasive technique to help reduce pain and inflammation. Laser therapy can be safely used as an adjunct or replacement for pharmaceutical drugs. This pain relief treatment is FDA cleared and enables patients to have an alternative to drugs and surgery.

What is a LiteCure laser therapy treatment like?

Laser therapy treatments last between 5 and 10 minutes depending on the condition being treated. Laser therapy treatments must be administered directly to skin, as laser light cannot penetrate through layers of clothing. You will feel a soothing warmth as the therapy is administered.

Should I tell my Medical Doctor that I am seeing a chiropractor?

Sure! At GCSS, we actually encourage you tell your medical provider that you are seeing one of our doctors. We work closely with many medical doctors to give you (the patient) the best possible care.

Do children get adjusted?

Yes, children can benefit from chiropractic care as well! Children are very physically active and experience many types of falls and bumps from activities of daily living as well as from participating in sports. Injuries such as these may cause many symptoms including back and neck pain, stiffness, soreness or discomfort. Children usually respond very well (and FAST) to chiropractic treatments!

Is getting adjusted safe if I am currently pregnant?

Absolutely. Make sure to tell the doctor that you are pregnant so special care can be taken while you are being treated. As your baby grows, our doctors have special techniques to make sure that you stay comfortable and get the treatment you deserve!