South Florida Chiropractors Exceed Nationwide Expectations

The Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine outlines detailed qualifications that each practitioner must have in order to work with patients throughout the state. South Florida in particular is known for having chiropractors with esteemed degrees and certifications that go above and beyond what is legally mandated. With a wide offering of services, many practices have doctors that pursue additional licensure, enabling them to provide patients with a superb level of care while addressing their whole-body needs in a non-invasive, holistic fashion.

Chiropractic Licensure and Certifications

To practice chiropractic in the state of Florida, doctors must undergo extensive schooling and pass rigorous tests. They must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from a licensed institution, following an undergraduate degree. Chiropractors spend an average of seven years in school before attaining their degrees. Then, they must pass an exam with the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
While these are national guidelines, Florida chiropractors must also pass a physiotherapy exam as well as The Florida Laws and Rules Examination before they receive their license to practice. All doctors undergo criminal background checks, disciplinary background checks, electronic fingerprinting, and must submit paperwork relating to their health history.

Additional Certifications

In addition to the basic requirements, many South Florida chiropractors choose to further their education and receive certifications in more specialized areas. For example, if a practice provides acupuncture services the doctor must also hold licensing through the Florida Board of Acupuncture.
Some practices offer services such as ultrasound therapy, which entails having licensure from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. At offices that provide laser therapy, or feature other instrument-assisted treatment options, doctors are often trained and certified by the manufacturers themselves. This means that the care you receive is always professional, and you can rest assured that you are in the best hands medically possible.

Exceeding Expectations

Having these additional credentials helps South Florida chiropractors to exceed the expectations of their patients time and time again. Often, solving musculoskeletal pain involves several treatment techniques, and the more certifications and service offerings a practice has the better they can address each individual's unique needs.
Many patients report that after seeking chiropractic care they find relief not just from back and neck pain, but experience a better sense of overall wellness. Patients report positive effects such as improved mood, improved digestion, better sleep, and increased levels of energy. Chronic problems and everyday ailments that individuals once assumed were a part of life significantly improve with the help of chiropractic care, leaving many patients impressed and pleased with the results.

Doctor/Patient Relationships

Another benefit of chiropractic care is that many doctors adopt a practice of being very involved in their patients' treatment plans, and include their patients in the decision-making process. This differs from other areas of medicine where a doctor may just see a patient for a few brief moments before issuing a prescription.
As a holistic practice, chiropractors often take the time to get to know their patients, their routines and lifestyles, and their goals. This is how they develop comprehensive treatment plans that best suit each person's needs. When you have a chiropractor who gets to know your lifestyle you can get the best treatment.

Questions to Ask a Chiropractor

Before beginning chiropractic treatment at a Coral Springs chiropractor, or any other office in South Florida, there are several questions that you should ask the doctor to ensure that they are the right fit for you.

What are your specialties?

If you are seeking treatment for prenatal chiropractic care or sports chiropractic, for example, it's essential that you find a doctor who specializes in these areas for the best results. Ask the doctor what their specialties are prior to beginning treatment. If they don't specialize in the area you're looking for, ask for a referral to a doctor who does. Other chiropractors may specialize in treating car accident injuries or post-surgical physical therapy.

What ancillary services does your office offer?

There are many ancillary services that a top-notch chiropractic office will offer in addition to traditional spinal adjustments. These may include treatments such as acupuncture, massage therapy, aromatherapy, and more. Finding an office with as many services as possible is an excellent way to ensure that you will receive comprehensive care all under one roof.

Do you have experience treating my condition?

If you are seeking chiropractic care for a condition such as a sports injury, a car accident injury, pinched nerves, osteoporosis, or have any other pre-existing medical history speak with the doctor before you begin treatment.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Your chiropractor may request that you bring medical records or X-rays with you to your first appointment, depending on your medical history. Ask ahead of time if there is specific paperwork, in addition to your photo ID and insurance card if applicable, that you should bring with you.

Finding the Right Chiropractor for Your Needs

Finding the right chiropractor is much like finding any other medical director. You want to find a doctor you are comfortable speaking with, that you trust, and that you feel listens to you. Most importantly, if you are looking to treat a specific condition or are seeking a specific treatment technique, ensure that your doctor specializes in that area.
When looking for the best chiropractor in South Florida, ask the office if their doctors hold any additional credentials or licensure. This will mean that they have more services to offer you. Read patient reviews online and ask friends and loved ones for recommendations and referrals. Additionally, your insurance company or primary care physician may be able to provide you with a referral as well.
Chiropractors in South Florida hold doctoral degrees and have vast experience in the field of musculoskeletal health. If you are suffering from back, neck, joint, or muscle pain, this may be the best holistic treatment option for you.