Valley Village Chiropractic

Frequently Asked Questions


Questions:


What is chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a branch of the healing arts based upon the understanding that good health depends, in part, upon a normally functioning nervous system (especially the spine, and the nerves extending from the spine to all parts of the body). "Chiropractic" comes from the Greek word chiropraktikos, meaning "effective treatment by hand." Chiropractic stresses the idea that the cause of many disease processes begins with the body's inability to adapt to its environment. It looks to address these diseases not by the use of drugs and chemicals, but by locating and adjusting a musculoskeletal area of the body which is functioning improperly.

What conditions benefit from chiropractic care?
Although chiropractic is used most frequently to relieve neck or back pain, studies have found it to be effective for a variety of conditions. Dr. Kofman will evaluate any pain or symptom. He really means it and he sincerely will take on a challenge. While you will hear countless testimonials in the waiting room from our current patients of chronic ,acute,sports injuries or recent minor miracles. Dr. Kofman has an amazing gift for healing musculoskeletal conditions with his hands. No challenge to great or small. Yet, bear in mind he will not waste your time and obligate you in any way to long treatment plans. You will feel significantly better soon. Carpal tunnel Syndrome is often mis-diagnosed and poorly treated. Dr. Kofman's treatment is nothing less than remarkable. You will most likely not need any wrists supports.

Does Chiropractic hurt?
Under normal circumstances, adjustments don't hurt. The patient may experience a minor amount of discomfort during the adjustment which lasts only seconds.Nevertheless, myofascial release,trigger point therapy,deep tissue massage does hurt. It can even hurt a lot. Yet, you will recognize the pain as specifically localized to the focal points that have caused your symptoms. Many describe it as,"It's painful but, it's a good pain-it hurts but feels good at the same time." The positive side of this is that these therapies can be customized to your tolerance.

Is Chiropractic safe?
Chiropractic adjustments or manipulations are extremely safe. The risk factor is estimated to be in excess of one million to one.

What kind of education and training do doctors of chiropractic have?
Chiropractors receive an education that emphasizes neuromuscular diagnosis and treatment. Preparation for the practice of chiropractic is concentrated on three areas of learning; basic training in the biological and health sciences (anatomy, physiology, histology, biochemistry, clinical and radiological diagnosis); specialized training in the chiropractic discipline (theoretical studies, practice, diagnosis and applications); and extensive clinical training.

Have any studies been published showing what chiropractic is effective for?
Several studies have documented the effectiveness of chiropractic in relieving back pain. More recent studies have shown chiropractic to be effective in treating infantile colic and migraine headaches.Joe Montana,Roger Craig,Mark McQuire,Barry Bonds and even Bath Ruth had chiropractic care.

What can I expect on my first visit?
The first thing a chiropractor will do is ask you about the health complaints about which you are chiefly concerned. The DC will also ask about your family history, dietary habits, other care you may have had (chiropractic, osteopathic, medical, etc.), your job, and other questions designed to help determine the nature of your illness and the best way to go about treating the problem.

A physical examination will be performed in accordance with your DC's clinical judgement, which may include x-rays, laboratory analysis and other diagnostic procedures. In addition, a careful spinal examination and analysis will be performed to detect any structural abnormalities which may be affecting or causing your condition. All of these elements are important components of your total health profile, and vital to the doctor of chiropractic in evaluating your problem.

What other services do you offer besides chiropractic?
Our office offers a variety of alternative health treatments including great supplements for pre-ulcer/reflux conditions,immune boosting supplements,naturopathic herbal remedies and neutraceutical supplements. In addition, Dr. Kofman has strengthening programs for sports.This program is called "Prehabilitation" which is geared toward strengthening and balancing muscles within a group expected to be under long term repetitive competitive use in sports for amateur and professionals. We currently have seen players in national ranks of ages as young as nine. References available.