|
 |
| |
Animal chiropractic is a modality based on the biomechanics of the spine and nervous system, which is used to relieve chiropractic subluxations. The characteristics of a chiropractic subluxation include:
- Loss of motion in the joints between the vertebrae
- Pain on pressure of the vertebrae
- Increased or decreased tone of the muscles surrounding the vertebrae
- May include changes in temperature, swelling or scar tissue
The goal of animal chiropractic is to restore normal joint motion with an "adjustment", and to aid in neurologic reprogramming. Neurologic reprogramming can be thought of as an improvement of the message that one nerve sends to another. A chiropractic adjustment is a specific physical action designed to restore the biomechanics of the vertebral column and indirectly influence neurologic function. The determination of the specific articulation to adjust is determined by a thorough history, gait analysis, static and motion palpation of the spine and extremities, orthopedic as well as a complete neurologic examination. |
 |
Training and certification in animal chiropractic began in 1989 by Dr. Sharon Willoughby, a veterinarian who became a human chiropractor so that she would know the proper technique for application of the benefits of chiropractic to the animal spine. Her insight and tenacity opened up a great field for veterinarians and chiropractors to share in helping animals.
What conditions can benefit from chiropractic care?
- Neck, back, leg and tail pain
- Muscle spasms, nerve problems
- Intervertebral disc problems
- Joint problems
- Lameness
- Injuries from slips, falls and accidents
- Sports injuries
- Post-surgical care
- Bowel, bladder and internal medicine disorders
- Maintenance of joint and spinal health
|
A licensed Doctor of Veterinary Medicine or Doctor of Chiropractic that has passed a postgraduate program in Animal Chiropractic approved by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association, AVCA.
How much does it cost?
| Initial Chiropractic Exam |
|
$75.00
|
| Follow up Chiropractic Visit |
|
$25.00 |
How long do the appointments last?
The initial visit will last for 45 - 60 minutes with each follow up visit lasting approximately 20 minutes. |
The number and frequency of visits required varies greatly. Some deciding factors are as follows:
How long has the problem(s) been present?
The longer a problem has been present the longer it takes the body to heal and thus, more visits may be required for a period of weeks to months.
What is the condition of my pet? Is he or she older?
Older pets heal more slowly and timing of visits is done to allow optimal healing to occur between each adjustment. Because the nervous system is the slowest healing part of the body, treatment may need to continue for extended periods of time.
What type of damage was done to precipitate the desire for chiropractic care, if other then for routine maintenance care?
Gradual onset of a problem may indicate more extensive nerve cells damage and prolong the healing process. Obviously many factors go in to deciding how often you will be visiting Dr. Martin, and you and she will discuss this at each visit. |
|
 |
Dr. Martin's interests in chiropractic were found early during vet school, unfortunately it was not taught there, but it was something she thought would be a useful tool in practice someday. She knew from day one that traditional western medicine had its limits and there had to be more available to help animals improve their chronic conditions and quality of life. Dr. Martin enrolled in the Parker Chiropractic College's Animal Chiropractic Program in 2007.
She enjoys the challenges that come with practicing chiropractic on small animals and the benefits her patients reap. Dr. Martin has of improving each individual animal’s health and quality of life. Over time she would like to expand her practice to include more physical therapy and rehabilitation to go along with chiropractic for whole animal wellness. |
|
| |
|
