Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ page). Below, we have tried to answer the most common questions visitors to this our Web site may have. If you find that your question is not answered on this page, please e-mail us DrGadomski@DrGadomski.com or call us from 8:00am to 7:00pm daily at 813-854-1177.

Whom do chiropractors care for?

Chiropractors care for patients from a cross-section of society -- all ages and occupations. Although most of those cared for fall between 18 and 50 years of age, chiropractors have reported good success with both infants and the elderly as well. Skilled and unskilled laborers comprise the biggest percentage of occupations represented. Interestingly, the advent of computer terminals and other factors in the modern office has meant many musculoskeletal problems in the white collar workforce.

What do chiropractors care for?

The two conditions most commonly cared for by chiropractors are joint dysfunctions, which chiropractors refer to as "subluxations," and headaches. Some of the other conditions often seen are lower back pain, muscular strains or tears, degenerative joint disease, peripheral neuritis or neuralgia, tendonitis, colic, scoliosis and bursitis. Other conditions sometimes seen include osteoporosis, nutritional disorders, carpal or tarsal tunnel syndrome and TMJ syndrome, to name a few.

Is chiropractic effective?

Evidence of effectiveness includes controlled scientific studies as well as clinical experience. With regard to the care of low back pain, the U.S. Agency for Health Care Policy and Research published a guideline in 1994 that recommended spinal adjustments. Other pro-chiropractic reports have appeared in Britain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and elsewhere.

What is a subluxation?

The term subluxation refers to a change in the position and/or motion of the spine and/or joints of the body, meaning that the spine or joints do not move in the normal way. When the spine is subluxated, the nerves in that area may behave abnormally. Nerves that send signals to the brain for muscle movement and pain sensation can be affected, changing what your brain perceives about the body and altering signals that the brain sends back. On the other hand, nerves that send signals to organs and tissues may be affected, with effects on those organs and tissues. The intent of a spinal adjustment is to restore normal motion, function and nerve impulse flow.

What the studies show...

"Manipulation can be helpful for patients with acute low back problems...within the first month of symptoms." 

U.S. Agency for Health Care Policy and Research

"Scientifically valid clinical studies support the fact that chiropractic spinal manipulation is more effective than alternative treatments for LBP (low-back pain). "

Ontario Ministry of Health

"Chiropractors are the only health practitioners who are necessarily equipped by their education and training to carry out spinal manual therapy." 

New Zealand Commission on Inquiry