Nature of Chiropractic Treatment
Dr. Gray will use his hands or a mechanical device to adjust the areas being treated. You may feel or hear a "click" or "pop," and you may feel movement. He will obtain your verbal consent and explain the rationale for all treatments rendered.
Possible Risks
Chiropractic treatment is safe and the majority of patients experience decreased pain and improved mobility. Approximately 30% of patients experience a slight increase in pain in the treated area, possibly due to minor strain of muscle, tendon, or ligament with higher-force adjustments. Dr. Gray will do his best to minimize these effects and may offer lower-force options when appropriate. Any increase in pain that occurs within the first few days of treatment is typically brief and returns to baseline or improves within a few days.
Possible skin irritation or burns may occur with thermal, cold, or electrical therapy — if any therapy feels uncomfortable, please notify Dr. Gray immediately.
Serious bodily harm is extremely rare and not an inherent risk of chiropractic treatment, especially with competent, experienced chiropractors. When conditions such as previous injury, medications, osteoporosis, or cancer are present, chiropractic treatment may be associated with serious adverse events such as fracture, dislocation, or aggravation of previous injury to ligaments, intervertebral discs, nerves, or spinal cord. Please inform Dr. Gray of all medications, surgeries, and medical conditions including osteoporosis, heart disease, cancer, stroke, fracture, or previous injury.
Alternative Options
Other options for the treatment of pain include: doing nothing, over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, medical care, injections, or surgery. Ridgecrest Chiropractic believes in taking the most conservative approach first and has helped many patients benefit from individualized care plans. You are encouraged to ask questions at any time.
Financial Responsibility
I understand I am responsible for all charges incurred in this office. I authorize the assignment of insurance benefits (if applicable) directly to the provider. I authorize Dr. Gray and staff to render care as deemed appropriate for me and/or my child. I authorize Ridgecrest Chiropractic to release and/or request records to or from other providers as may be necessary.
