Chiropractic services and treatments

Here are some more common Sentara chiropractic services and treatments. Please note that services vary by therapy center location. Be sure to check with individual locations to see which services they offer.

Services and treatments

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Activator technique

A gentle, low-force chiropractic method using a handheld device to adjust the spine and joints, improving alignment and function.

Acupuncture

The practice of inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing.

Chiropractic adjustments

Manual or instrument-based techniques to correct spinal misalignments, restore movement and alleviate pain using varying force levels.

Cupping

Cupping uses suction to increase blood flow, reduce muscle tension and promote healing of soft tissues.

Drop technique

Chiropractic method using a special table with drop sections to enhance spinal adjustments with minimal force and impact.

Dry needling

Dry needling targets muscle knots to reduce pain and ease muscle tension.

Learn more about dry needling.

Fascial manipulation

Manual therapy targeting fascia to release tension, improve mobility and reduce pain caused by fascial restrictions or adhesions.

Functional and kinetic treatment with rehabilitation (FAKTR)

Combines manual therapy, movement patterns and rehabilitation exercises to treat pain and improve function in dynamic positions.

Graston technique

Instrument-assisted technique using specialized tools to break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions, promoting tissue healing and mobility.

Instrument-assisted soft tissue technique

Therapy using tools to detect and treat soft tissue restrictions, improving mobility, reducing pain and enhancing recovery.

Joint manipulation and mobilization

Manual techniques to restore normal joint movement, relieve pain and improve function by mobilizing or adjusting joints.

Kinesio taping

Elastic therapeutic tape applied to muscles and joints to support, reduce pain, improve circulation and enhance performance.

Manual soft tissue mobilization

Hands-on techniques to manipulate muscles, tendons and fascia. This reduces pain, improves circulation and restores mobility.

Mechanical traction

Uses a mechanical device to gently stretch the spine, alleviating pressure on discs and nerves, and reducing pain.

Microcurrent therapy

Uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate tissue healing, reduce pain and promote cell repair and regeneration.

Musculoskeletal diagnostic ultrasound

Imaging technique using sound waves to visualize soft tissues, joints and muscles, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Pain management

A comprehensive approach using various techniques to relieve or reduce chronic and acute pain for improved quality of life.

Pediatric care

Chiropractic care tailored to infants and children to support healthy growth and development and address specific pediatric concerns.

Prenatal and postnatal care

Chiropractic care for pregnant and postpartum women to reduce pain, improve alignment and support a healthy pregnancy and recovery.

Spinal flexion-distraction and decompression

Gentle, nonsurgical techniques using stretching and decompression to relieve spinal pressure, disc pain and improve spinal health.

What to expect

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What do I need to know before I schedule my chiropractic appointment?

Anyone can see a chiropractor without a physician referral. However, to avoid unexpected costs, we recommend checking with your insurance to verify the requirements for coverage and to confirm the total number of sessions covered by your plan.

Most major health insurance plans cover chiropractic care except for Tricare. We also offer financial assistance and self-pay options if chiropractic care is not covered by your plan.

Visit billing

What typically occurs during a chiropractic appointment?

The chiropractor assesses your medical history and symptoms, conducts a physical exam and diagnoses any neuromusculoskeletal issues. Treatment often involves spinal adjustments, joint manipulations and recommendations for exercises or lifestyle changes to relieve pain, improve mobility and support overall health.

I am scheduled for a chiropractic appointment. What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothing, for example, a sports bra or tank top for an upper body examination and sweatpants or shorts for your lower body.

How long will my appointment last?

Evaluations typically last an hour. Follow-up appointments can last 15 to 90 minutes depending on the services provided. Be sure to ask your chiropractor what to expect.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

Be sure to bring the following to your therapy appointment:

Health insurance card
Photo ID (such as a driver's license)

How will my doctor monitor my progress?

Your chiropractor will send the initial evaluation report to your doctor within 48 hours of your first appointment. Follow-up progress reports will be sent every 30 days or before any appointments with your physician.

Schedule an appointment

Ready to start a therapy program? If you're a new patient, please call us at 855-852-9066 to schedule your first appointment. Existing patients who have seen a therapist within the last three years can call or schedule online with MyChart.

Schedule with MyChart