Q: Are you really doctors?

A: In the state of Illinois, a physician is defined as a medical doctor, chiropractor or dentist. In addition to a bachelors degree in science, chiropractors are required to take the equivalent of at least four years of training in an accredited university which is comparable to a medical school education less pharmacology and surgery. We are then required to complete an internship in various clinical settings, and pass rigorous state and national board examinations.

Q: What is that cracking sound I hear during an adjustment?

A: The "cracking" or "popping" sound that is often heard when a chiropractic adjustment takes place is the sound of gas escaping from a joint when it is put into its correct place. A joint is a place where two bones meet and are separated by cartilage to keep them from rubbing against one another.

Q: Do acupuncture needles hurt?

A: No. There is sometimes a slight pinch felt when inserting a needle, but this goes away immediately, and often one doesn't feel anything at all. If acupuncture hurts you, it is being done incorrectly.