Z Spine and Joint Center - Frequently Asked Questions

Z Spine and Joint Center

www.zspineandjoint.com

Within Solimar Wellness Spa

(651) 686-6686

Better, Faster, Stronger, Resolution For Joint and Soft Tissue Injuries

Frequently Asked Questions

Z Spine and Joint Center is a human performance enhancement center that diagnoses and treats injuries and conditions of the musculoskeletal system. Our clinical standards warrant more than just pain relief for our patients. We work to improve the function of each patient’s joint mechanics by analysis of movement patterns and subsequent treatment that can minimize discomfort associated with activities of daily living. Education about movement patterns and the training of different muscle groups can equip the patient with tools that minimize the number of treatments needed and more importantly allow for maximum recovery and prevention of future re-injury. Rehabilitative therapeutic exercises will most likely play an important role in your recovery. Your ability to perform these exercises correctly can be an indicator that you are on your way to a speedy recovery.

Z Spine and Joint Center does not sell patients on signing up for a pre-determined amount of office visits. We only make suggestions on the number of visits it will take based on previous clinical outcomes of similar conditions and the individual progress of each patient. Our goal is to help you achieve long term results in the shortest timeframe possible.

Dr. Zupancich has undergone extensive studies and specialized training in the fields of musculoskeletal anatomy, biomechanics, sports injuries, and rehabilitative exercise. As a result, when it comes to musculoskeletal injuries, acute or chronic, Dr. Zupancich of Z Spine and Joint Center is best suited to meet your needs.

According to Jens Chapman, M.D., a professor of orthopedics and neurological surgery at the University of Washington, "Chiropractors are a satisfying choice to manage acute back pain." Further, a 2002 study funded by the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality reported a third more patients are satisfied with the back treatment and advice they get from chiropractors compared with medical doctors.

NOT EVEN CLOSE!! Many people are surprised to learn that most chiropractors practice differently. Based on Dr. Zupancich’s studies, experience and clinical research he understands that the combination of joint and muscle manipulation, rehabilitation, and therapeutic exercises offers patients a type of care that is unique to the Twin Cities area.
Dr. Zupancich’s knowledge of anatomy and the body's mechanics in conjunction with his Motion Palpation Institute techniques provides him with the insight to know when a joint should be adjusted, when muscular or rehabilitative therapy is appropriate and when a combined-treatment program is necessary. For Dr. Zupancich’s patients, his comprehensive, evidence-based approach produces results in an efficient timeframe with most patients excused from care between three and ten visits depending on the complexity of their condition.

According to Stephen Barrett, M.D., "Choose your chiropractor carefully. You can give a pass to any who advertise free evaluations (they're fishing for suckers) or take loads of x-rays (they're padding the bill)."

Z Spine and Joint Center takes pride in bringing long lasting relief to their patients in the shortest possible timeframe. The care you receive at Z Spine and Joint Center will be individualized to your clinical needs. Our goal during care is to educate our patients about their condition as well as the overall health benefits of our care. Patients will see that their active participation in care is required to provide the greatest benefits. Once a patient has been dismissed from care, follow-up treatment may be sought at the request of the patient to help achieve individual healthcare goals. Patients that wish to pursue maintenance or wellness care options are encouraged to seek our care as well.

Research proves that chiropractic manipulation can actually prevent arthritis by restoring proper motion to the joint. Medical textbooks will tell you that it is the loss of motion that causes joint damage and arthritis. Further, the restoration of joint function provides the cartilage and disc (in the case of the spine) with improved blood supply. Better blood supply means better bodily nourishment and overall physical health.

Concern has been raised over the safety of people who try to adjust themselves. Research proves that only chiropractors can ensure an adjustment is performed safely. Why? Often times, the "self adjustment" is producing movement in joints near the restricted area – causing harmful friction to surrounding joint structures and further aggravating the restricted area. The best advice: Don't try to do it yourself. Seek the expertise of your chiropractor.

Misconceptions about the cracking noises that are heard when a chiropractic adjustment is delivered can often lead to nervousness about treatment. The noise is not the bones crashing into each other. The audible stems from a lubricant, called synovial fluid, which is made up of dissolved gases located in every joint. An adjustment releases the build up pressure and these gases, which were created by the joint's restriction. The emission of these nitrogen gases produce the "popping" sound often heard when an adjustment is administered.

Although chiropractors don’t often work in the same buildings as medical doctors, physical therapists, dentists, podiatrists and other healthcare specialists, referrals ensure that a patient has the capability of receiving the best possible care available. Dr. Zupancich is well educated at recognizing risk factors and signs of disease. If our patient’s need is best addressed by a medical doctor or another specialist, we refer the patient every time. Likewise, these healthcare professionals refer patients to Z Spine and Joint Center when their patients need comprehensive chiropractic care. With this referral network in place our patient’s can be assured that they are receiving the best care available.