Maintenance Care: What is It and Do I Need It?

Maintenance care is care that is designed to prevent problems, not treat them.  It is also often referred to as "Wellness Care."  I think this is one of the most valuable aspects of chiropractic care and also one of the most misunderstood.  When someone says "once you go to a chiropractor, you have to keep going forever," they are misinterpreting the role of maintenance care.  Some of this is the fault of the chiropractor who failed to explain maintenance care properly.

There are several instances where I will suggest Wellness Care.

1.  Relatively advanced arthritic conditions.  These conditions create a state of instability in the body that lead to multiple pain episodes over time.  Regular adjustments can prevent most flare-ups.
2.  People with hobbies or jobs that create imbalances that have led to multiple pain episodes in the past.  If you have had multiple episodes of low back pain and you drive a fork-lift, you would greatly benefit from some preventive care.
3.  Athletes who are training at a high intensity.  This can help to prevent overuse injuries.
4.  Anyone who has noticed that they just FEEL BETTER when they come in regularly.

The answer to my initial question is "No, you do not need maintenance care."  However, that does not mean that I don't recommend it.  You don't NEED to go to the dentist, but you are much more likely to keep your teeth if you do!  Some people benefit greatly from regular care and I will strongly suggest it in those cases.  It saves money and a whole lot of pain in the long run.  But, as is always the case, it is up to each patient to decided for him or herself.

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