How do I know whether I have vertebral subluxation? Very similar to tooth decay, vertebral subluxation can go unnoticed. A thorough neurological and chiropractic examination will indicate the precise locations of your vertebral subluxation.     Are chiropractic adjustments safe? Yes. The New Zealand government survey found that chiropractic adjustments are very safe and boast a remarkably safe track record. Statistics also suggest that chiropractic adjustments are 100 times safer than taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.     Why do chiropractic adjustments produce a ‘cracking’ sound? Your spinal joints are separated by lubricating fluids. When you are adjusted by the chiropractor, the gas and fluids in these joints can shift, thereby producing this popping sound.     Can I crack the bones myself? Absolutely not and in fact, this can do more harm than good. Although you can crack your bones and the same popping sound can be heard, you most likely will be cracking the wrong joint in the wrong direction which is already weak. Adjustments need to be specific--it requires a qualified chiropractor who has thoroughly examined you to locate the specific areas where you need to be adjusted.     Why is it necessary for newborns to get checked by a chiropractor? Whether a child is born vaginally or via C-Section, there is immense pressure placed on the baby’s neck and spine. This pressure may cause spinal distress, which preliminary studies suggest can be the root of colic, unusual and inexplicable crying, poor appetite, ear infections or erratic sleeping habits. The chiropractor can locate the spinal distress, and with gentle pediatric adjustments with a special adjusting tool, the pressure being no more than testing the ripeness of a tomato, the doctor will be able to relieve the spinal distress.     When will I begin to feel improvements in my body? This can vary. While some patients may feel immediate relief, others may take a few days, weeks or even months. The variance result from how long you’ve had your problem for, whether you are keeping up with your regular treatment schedule, whether you are following diligently with your exercise program recommended by your doctor, or whether you are getting enough rest.     Should everyone receive the same chiropractic adjustment? Just as everyone is unique and their spine may be in a different stage of degeneration or may have suffered a different injury, so must be the treatment/adjustment. The care of the patient is custom-tailored to his/her age, condition, and overall health goal.     How long will I need chiropractic care? Depending on the degree of damage in your spine, it can be weeks to months or years of corrective care to correct the cause of the underlying muscle weakness, soft tissue damage, and degenerative changes. This is followed up by wellness or maintenance care. Similar to brushing teeth, tuning up your car or regularly visiting a dentist, wellness care is important for maintaining optimal health, saving money, and enjoying a healthy lifestyle. How long you decide to benefit from Chiropractic is always up to you.     Is chiropractic safe for pregnant women? Not only is chiropractic safe for pregnant women, but it is recommended by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association to receive chiropractic care throughout pregnancy to establish pelvic balance and optimize the room a baby has for development throughout pregnancy. Changes that could result in a misaligned spine or joint include: protruding abdomen and increased back curve; pelvic changes and postural adaptations. Chiropractic can assist in establishing pelvic balance and alignment.     What are the benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy? Potential benefits include: maintaining a healthier pregnancy, controlling nausea, increasing the likelihood of full-term delivery, reducing the time of labor and delivery, relieving back, neck or joint pain, and preventing a potential caesarean section.