Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes Performance Health Care (PHC) different from other chiropractic clinics?
A: We offer a unique combination of the most modern, clinically proven therapies which offer our patients quick, effective and long-lasting results. We provide patients with the research proven “gold standard” of care, consisting of adjustments, soft tissue treatments, rehabilitative exercise, and patient education. See our Treatment Info page for more information.
Q: At Performance Health Care do the doctors only treat athletes?
A: Absolutely not, while the chiropractic physicians at PHC specialize in treating athletes they are also trained to treat the weekend warrior, expecting mothers, children and any number of various musculoskeletal conditions.
Q: Once I begin treatment, will I have to come back for a long period of time?
A: No. Returning patients to their active lifestyles in the shortest timeframe possible is one of our primary goals. First we will determine if chiropractic care can help you by taking a history, performing a physical examination and when clinically indicated refer for imaging (x-ray, MRI, etc...). If we determine that chiropractic can be of benefit, then we will suggest an estimated, finite treatment period. If chiropractic care is not indicated, we will suggest other sources of help or refer you to another doctor. Every case is different and each person’s response varies.
Q: Will you keep my primary care physician informed of the care I receive from your office?
A: The physicians at PHC routinely provide documentation to our patients’ primary care physician with permission from the patient. We also make a special effort to inform the medical doctor of any unusual condition or circumstance.
Q: Can children be helped with chiropractic treatment?
A: Oftentimes, chiropractic treatment is beneficial for children/infants as well as adults. Children usually require fewer treatments as they respond quickly to care.
Q: What does chiropractic education consist of?
A: Doctors of chiropractic are well educated and well trained. After completing the required pre-med undergraduate studies, chiropractors must complete a 3-4 year program at a government accredited chiropractic college. See below for a comparison of chiropractic education to that of a medical doctor.
Additionally, Doctors of Chiropractic must complete four sets of National Board Exams, as well as a Physiotherapy National Board. Chiropractors must then seek licensure through their State Board. Once licensed, chiropractors must complete continuing education hours each year, with over 20 hours per year being required in the state of Missouri .
Comparison of educational requirements for Chiropractic and Medical Doctors
Subjects Class Hours Chiropractic Students Medical Students
Anatomy 540 510
Chemistry 165 325
Diagnosis 630 325
Microbiology 120 115
Neurology 320 110
Obstetrics 60 150
Orthopedics 210 155
Pathology 360 400
Physiology 240 325
Psychiatry 60 145
Radiology 360 150
HOURS 3,065 2,710
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED STUDIES
Spinal Manipulation Pharmacology
Nutrition Immunology
Physiotherapy General Surgery
Advanced Radiology
TOTAL HOURS 4,485 4,250
*At the end of their formal eduction Medical Doctor have a required Medical Residency, the hours for this are not included in the above data.