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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care

Get answers to common questions about chiropractic care, treatment options, and what to expect at Orlandini Family Chiropractic. Dr. Joseph Orlandini is here to help you understand how chiropractic care can improve your health naturally.

  • Chiropractic care is a healthcare profession focused on diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, with particular emphasis on treating these conditions through manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine. At Orlandini Family Chiropractic, Dr. Joseph Orlandini uses proven techniques to restore proper movement, reduce pain, and help your body heal naturally without drugs or surgery. Our comprehensive approach addresses not just your symptoms, but the root cause of your discomfort to help prevent future problems.

  • Dr. Orlandini treats a wide range of conditions affecting people of all ages including back pain (lower, middle, upper), neck pain and stiffness, sciatica, herniated/bulging discs, pinched nerves, tension headaches, migraines, numbness and tingling, neuropathy, shoulder/elbow/wrist pain, hip/knee/ankle/foot pain, joint pain and stiffness, hiatal hernia, digestive dysfunction, and breathing problems.

  • No referral is needed to see Dr. Orlandini. Chiropractors are primary healthcare providers, meaning you can schedule directly with us. However, we recommend checking with your insurance plan as some may have specific requirements. Most plans, including PPOs, allow direct access to chiropractic care.

  • Your first visit typically includes a comprehensive health history discussion, physical examination with posture and movement analysis, orthopedic and neurological tests, and treatment if appropriate. Many patients receive treatment on their first visit if it's safe and appropriate. We'll also discuss your treatment plan and expected timeline for improvement. Plan for 45-60 minutes for your initial visit.

  • Most patients find chiropractic adjustments to be painless and actually relieving. You may hear a "popping" or "cracking" sound during an adjustment - this is simply gas being released from the joint and is completely normal and harmless. Some patients experience mild soreness for 24-48 hours after their first treatment, similar to what you might feel after a workout. Dr. Orlandini uses gentle techniques including Gonstead, Activator, and Diversified methods to ensure your comfort throughout treatment.

  • Yes, chiropractic care is extremely safe when performed by a licensed professional. Research shows that serious complications from chiropractic treatment are extraordinarily rare - occurring in less than 1 in 500,000 treatments. Chiropractic care is significantly safer than taking over-the-counter pain medications, back surgery, or long-term use of prescription pain medications. Dr. Orlandini has performed over 150,000 successful adjustments in his 17+ years of practice with an excellent safety record.

  • The number of treatments varies based on your specific condition and how long you've had it, your overall health and age, how well you respond to initial treatment, and your treatment goals. Most patients notice improvement within the first few visits. Dr. Orlandini will provide you with a realistic treatment plan during your first appointment and regularly assess your progress. We believe in getting you better as quickly as possible - not keeping you in treatment longer than necessary.

  • No - this is a common myth. Dr. Orlandini's approach focuses on getting you better efficiently. Our treatment phases include relief care (getting you out of pain), corrective care (strengthening and stabilizing), and optional wellness care (periodic checkups to maintain optimal health). Just like dental care or regular exercise, some patients choose ongoing wellness care to prevent problems, but this is always your choice - never a requirement.

  • Absolutely! Chiropractic care is not only safe during pregnancy but highly beneficial. According to the American Pregnancy Association, there are no known contraindications to chiropractic care during pregnancy. Benefits include relief from back and pelvic pain, improved pelvic alignment for optimal baby positioning, potentially shorter labor times, and reduced pregnancy-related discomfort. Dr. Orlandini has specialized training in prenatal care and uses gentle techniques and special positioning to ensure both mother and baby's safety.

  • Yes, pediatric chiropractic care is very safe and beneficial. Children experience many physical stresses from daily activities, sports, and even the birth process itself. Common childhood issues we help with include colic and feeding difficulties in infants, sleep problems, growing pains, sports injuries, and posture problems from backpack use and technology. Dr. Orlandini uses extremely gentle techniques specifically adapted for children. The pressure used on an infant is no more than you'd use to check the ripeness of a tomato.

  • Yes! Chiropractic care is highly effective for many types of headaches, especially those originating from neck problems or tension. We successfully treat tension headaches from neck and shoulder muscle tightness, cervicogenic headaches caused by neck joint dysfunction, some migraines triggered by spinal misalignment, and stress-related headaches. Research shows that chiropractic treatment can reduce headache frequency and intensity, decrease dependence on pain medications, and address underlying causes rather than just symptoms.

  • While both can help with pain relief, they work differently. Chiropractic care focuses on joint alignment and nervous system function, uses specific adjustments to restore proper movement, addresses structural problems that cause symptoms, and provides longer-lasting results by fixing the underlying issue. Massage therapy focuses on soft tissue and muscle tension, provides temporary relief of muscle tightness, and is excellent for relaxation and stress relief. Dr. Orlandini often combines both approaches for comprehensive treatment when appropriate.

  • Dr. Orlandini brings 17+ years of experience with over 150,000 successful adjustments, multiple technique certifications including Gonstead, Activator, Diversified, Thompson, and Webster Technique for pregnancy. He provides personalized treatment approach with manual adjustments, treats the whole body including spine and extremities, focuses on honest treatment plans to get you better quickly, and safely treats patients from newborns to seniors with specialized techniques for each age group.

  • Dr. Orlandini believes in honest, ethical practice. If your condition doesn't respond to chiropractic care within a reasonable timeframe, he will refer you to the appropriate specialist who can better help you. We work with a network of trusted healthcare providers including orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, pain management doctors, and primary care physicians. Your health and recovery are our top priorities - not keeping you in treatment that isn't working.

Have More Questions?

Don't let pain control your life. Dr. Orlandini has helped thousands of patients in Aliquippa, Hopewell, and surrounding areas get back to doing what they love.

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Monday9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Tuesday9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
WednesdayClosed
Thursday9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Friday11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
every other saturday
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