Oakland Chiropractic FAQ

Here are a few answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive. We hope that these will be helpful to you, but if you have a question that is not answered here, please do not hesitate to call us – we will happily answer any question you may have about chiropractic care.

Q1 - Does insurance cover chiropractic?

Many health insurance plans cover all or some of chiropractic services. We are a contracted, in-network provider with many of the major carriers.

Q2 - Once I start treatment will I always need it?

No. Most often with appropriate initial classification of the condition, proper treatment, and patient follow through, patients are discharged.

Q3 - Can I get hurt with chiropractic treatment?

While post-treatment soreness is experienced by some, chiropractic is extremely safe. This post-treatment response is similar to other types of hands-on treatment. Because some of our treatments are new or unfamiliar, we make sure to thoroughly explain recommended therapies and to include incremental therapies to confirm and test your tolerance and gauge your response.

Q4 - I have had surgery and have residual pain. Can I be treated by a chiropractor?

Absolutely. Chiropractic treatment, including rehab exercises, can be an excellent way to further recover function and reduce pain.

Q5 - Will I need extensive treatment to get better?

No. An initial treatment trial in my office never exceeds six visits or six weeks. If we are not getting improvement or do not fully understand the condition at that point, further assessment will take place.

Q6 - Why should I see a doctor when this is going to get better anyway?

It is a myth, as many unfortunately know, that all body pains inherently get better with time. While if someone can manage, pain does not have to be treated urgently, prolonged delay in treatment can slow healing.

Q7 - Why should I see a chiropractor? Shouldn't I see my regular doctor first?

If your primary complaint is a physical complaint (pain, movement limitation). Dr. Callister is a great place to start. He regularly refers for imaging and other treatments as needed, but is able to provide a thorough initial assessment for recent and long-standing issues. Unless you require a referral (for insurance purposes) there is no need to see your primary care physician first. Some conditions require co-management with a medical physician, but this depends exclusively on the clinical presentation.

Q8 - What makes Dr. Callister different?

There are a number of excellent chiropractors in San Francisco. If we are not convenient, not in your insurance plan, or do not provide a specific technique you have found useful, please get in touch and we will do our best to direct you to one of my colleagues I especially know and trust. Our office is different in that we focus specifically on a tailor-made solution for you. The best diagnostic and treatment approach is a process that requires some patience and perseverance. But by working together, we can come to understand your individual problem and start on a path to a solution.