Question 1

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?

Accepted Answer

Generally no, you do not need a referral to see a chiropractor at Valley Chiropractic. However, some insurance plans do require a referral. We can verify this for you before your first appointment, just call any of our four offices in Tracy, Mountain House, Manteca, or Ripon, and our team will check your specific insurance requirements.

Question 2

Is chiropractic care safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Chiropractic care has an excellent safety record when performed by licensed Doctors of Chiropractic.

Question 3

How many visits will I need?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your condition, but most patients see meaningful improvement within 4-8 visits. We provide a clear treatment plan after your initial exam.

Question 4

Do you treat children?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Several of our doctors specialize in pediatric chiropractic care and have advanced training in gentle techniques for children of all ages.

Question 5

What is the popping sound during an adjustment?

Accepted Answer

That's gas being released from the joint (called cavitation) — it's completely normal and not a sign of bones cracking.

Question 6

Should I see a chiropractor for an old injury?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many old injuries — even from years ago — respond well to chiropractic care. It's never too late to address chronic pain.

Question 7

Can I come in just for maintenance once I feel better?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and we recommend it. Most patients benefit from ongoing wellness visits about once a month.

Question 8

Do you offer same-day appointments?

Accepted Answer

Often yes — call your nearest location and we'll do our best to fit you in the same day, especially for acute pain.

Question 9

Are walk-ins welcome?

Accepted Answer

We prefer scheduled appointments to minimize your wait, but we'll do our best to accommodate walk-ins.

Question 10

What should I wear to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing you can move easily in. We provide gowns if needed.

Question 11

How much does a chiropractic visit cost?

Accepted Answer

Cost depends on whether you have insurance, the services performed, and the complexity of your case. Most insurance copays are $25-$50 per visit. We'll verify your benefits before you come in.

Question 12

How much is the first visit?

Accepted Answer

For cash patients, the new patient exam (without X-rays) typically runs $75-$150. With insurance, your copay applies.

Question 13

How much does massage therapy cost?

Accepted Answer

60-minute therapeutic massage typically runs $80-$110. Discounted packages are available.

Question 14

Do you offer cash plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we offer pre-paid wellness plans that significantly reduce per-visit cost for patients without insurance. See our Payment Options page for details.

Question 15

Can I use my HSA or FSA?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Chiropractic care and therapeutic massage are eligible HSA/FSA expenses.

Question 16

Do you bill insurance directly?

Accepted Answer

For most plans, yes — we file claims on your behalf and bill you only for your copay or deductible.

Question 17

What should I expect at my first chiropractic visit?

Accepted Answer

Your first chiropractic visit at Valley Chiropractic usually takes 45 to 60 minutes and includes four parts: paperwork, a one-on-one consultation, a physical exam, and (in most cases) your first adjustment. You'll leave with a clear understanding of what's causing your pain and a plan for what comes next.

When you arrive at our Tracy office off Tracy Boulevard, the front desk will check you in and hand you intake forms if you didn't fill them out online. From there, one of our chiropractors (often Dr. Coykendall, Dr. Atwal, or Dr. Russell) will bring you back for a private consultation. This is where you describe what hurts, when it started, what makes it worse, and what you've already tried. We ask a lot of questions because back pain in a Mountain House commuter who drives 90 minutes each way to the Bay looks very different from back pain in a Tracy warehouse worker lifting all day.

Next comes the physical exam. We check posture, range of motion, reflexes, muscle strength, and we do orthopedic tests targeted at whatever you described. If something looks like it needs imaging, we'll refer you out for X-rays or MRI before adjusting.

If you're cleared for treatment, most patients receive their first adjustment the same day. We always explain what we're about to do before we do it, and nothing happens without your consent. According to the [American Chiropractic Association](https://www.acatoday.org/patients/what-is-chiropractic/), this kind of conservative, hands-on care is one of the most common non-drug approaches for back and neck pain in the U.S.

Learn more about our approach on the [chiropractic care service page](/services/chiropractic-care) or read our deeper walkthrough at [what happens at your first chiropractic visit](/blog/what-happens-first-chiropractic-visit).

Question 18

What chiropractic intake forms do I need to fill out as a new patient?

Accepted Answer

As a new patient, you'll fill out four standard chiropractic intake forms: a health history, a pain and symptoms questionnaire, an insurance and billing form, and a consent-to-treat form. You can complete all of these online before your visit so you spend less time in the waiting room.

The health history form asks about prior surgeries, current medications, allergies, pregnancy status, and any chronic conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, or high blood pressure. These matter because they change how (and sometimes whether) we adjust. For example, a patient with advanced osteoporosis will get a lighter, instrument-assisted technique instead of a manual adjustment.

The symptoms form asks you to mark where it hurts on a body diagram, rate the pain from 0 to 10, and describe whether it's sharp, achy, burning, or radiating. If you're coming in after a car accident on I-205 or I-580, there's an additional auto injury form, and we coordinate directly with your insurance adjuster. You can read more about that process on our [auto accident injury page](/services/auto-accident-injury).

The insurance form collects your card information and verifies coverage. California law requires us to verify chiropractic benefits before treatment, and we usually have that done within 24 hours. Our [insurance FAQ](/faq/insurance) covers the most common questions about deductibles, copays, and what plans we accept.

Finally, the informed consent form explains the benefits and the small risks of spinal manipulation. The [National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/spinal-manipulation-what-you-need-to-know) notes that serious complications from chiropractic adjustments are rare, but we still want you to read it, ask questions, and sign only when you feel comfortable.

If you'd rather skip the clipboard entirely, call our [Tracy office](/locations/tracy) and we'll email the forms ahead of your appointment.

Question 19

What happens during the chiropractor consultation and exam?

Accepted Answer

The chiropractor consultation is a 15 to 20 minute conversation where your doctor reviews your intake forms, asks follow-up questions, and figures out whether chiropractic care is the right fit for your problem. The exam that follows is hands-on and focused on the areas you've identified as painful.

During the consultation, expect questions like: When did this start? Was there an injury or did it come on gradually? Does it wake you up at night? Does it shoot down your arm or leg? What helps, what makes it worse? These details matter. A Tracy patient who wakes up with neck stiffness from a desk job needs a different plan than someone with sharp shooting pain down the leg, which often points to [sciatica](/services/sciatica) or a [disc condition](/services/disc-conditions).

The physical exam usually includes:

- **Posture analysis** while standing and sitting
- **Range of motion** testing for your neck, mid-back, and lower back
- **Palpation**, where the doctor feels along your spine for tender spots, muscle tension, or joint restriction
- **Orthopedic tests**, like the straight-leg raise for sciatica or Spurling's test for pinched nerves in the neck
- **Neurological screening**, including reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength

If any red flags show up, like sudden weakness, loss of bladder control, unexplained weight loss, or signs of fracture, we refer out immediately. The [American Chiropractic Association](https://www.acatoday.org/news-publications/newsroom/key-facts/) recommends this kind of careful screening as part of standard chiropractic practice.

By the end of the exam, your doctor will explain what they found in plain English. You'll know whether your problem is muscular, joint-related, nerve-related, or something that needs imaging or a referral. From there, we discuss a treatment plan that fits your schedule, your budget, and your goals.

Question 20

Will I get my first adjustment on the same day as my consultation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most patients receive their first adjustment on the same day as the consultation and exam, as long as the doctor doesn't find anything that requires imaging or a referral first. About 85% of our new patients in Tracy leave their first appointment having already had treatment.

There are a few situations where we'll wait. If you describe symptoms that suggest a possible fracture (recent fall, high-impact car accident, severe osteoporosis), we'll send you for X-rays before adjusting. If your exam shows signs of nerve damage that's progressing, we may send you for an MRI. And if you came in after a serious auto accident, we sometimes coordinate with your primary care doctor before starting care. Our blog post on the [first 72 hours after an auto accident](/blog/auto-accident-chiropractor-manteca-first-72-hours) explains that timeline in more detail.

When we do adjust on day one, it's usually conservative. We're not trying to do everything at once. The goal is to reduce the most acute pain, restore some motion, and see how your body responds. A first adjustment often involves a few targeted manipulations of the spine, some soft tissue work on tight muscles, and sometimes a few minutes of [massage therapy](/services/massage-therapy) or ice.

We use several different [chiropractic techniques](/services/chiropractic-techniques) depending on what fits your body and your comfort level. If you don't want the traditional hands-on "popping" style, we have low-force and instrument-assisted options that are just as effective for many conditions.

A 2018 study in [JAMA Network Open](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6324439/) found that adding chiropractic care to usual medical care for low back pain led to better pain reduction and function compared to medical care alone. That's why we don't wait weeks to start treatment when it's safe to begin.

Question 21

Does the first adjustment hurt, and what does it feel like?

Accepted Answer

No, a chiropractic adjustment should not hurt. Most patients describe it as a quick pressure followed by immediate relief, sometimes with an audible "pop" from the joint. The pop is just nitrogen gas releasing from the joint capsule, the same sound you hear when you crack your knuckles.

That said, your first adjustment can feel unfamiliar, especially if you've never been to a chiropractor. You'll lie face down, face up, or on your side on a specialized table that has sections that drop slightly to reduce the force needed. The doctor places their hands on a specific spot, asks you to relax and breathe out, and then delivers a quick, controlled thrust. The whole motion takes less than a second per joint.

After the adjustment, it's common to feel:

- Looser and more mobile in the area that was treated
- Mild soreness, similar to after a workout, for 24 to 48 hours
- Occasionally tired, since your nervous system has just received new input

About 15 to 30% of new patients experience some mild soreness after the first adjustment, according to research summarized by [NCCIH](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/spinal-manipulation-what-you-need-to-know). It typically resolves within a day or two and gets less noticeable as your body adapts to treatment.

If at any point during the adjustment something feels wrong, tell your doctor immediately. We adjust pressure, position, and technique based on your feedback. For patients dealing with conditions like [pinched nerves](/services/pinched-nerves), [scoliosis](/services/scoliosis), or [fibromyalgia](/services/fibromyalgia-treatment), we use much gentler approaches.

We also offer [prenatal chiropractic](/services/prenatal-chiropractic) and [pediatric chiropractic](/services/pediatric-chiropractic), both of which use very light pressure. A pediatric adjustment uses about the same force you'd use to test the ripeness of a tomato, so kids almost never report discomfort.

Question 22

How long is the first appointment and what should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Your first appointment at Valley Chiropractic takes about 45 to 60 minutes from check-in to checkout. Follow-up visits are much shorter, usually 15 to 25 minutes. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that lets you move freely, like athletic wear, leggings, or soft pants and a t-shirt.

Here's how the time typically breaks down:

- **10 minutes**: check-in and finishing any remaining intake forms
- **15 to 20 minutes**: consultation with the doctor
- **15 to 20 minutes**: physical exam and any in-office testing
- **10 to 15 minutes**: first adjustment, soft tissue work, and review of your treatment plan

Avoid wearing heavy belts, thick jeans, dresses, or jewelry around your neck. We don't ask patients to change into a gown for most appointments, but we do need to access the spine, so layered clothing that bunches up can get in the way. If you're coming straight from work at one of the Tracy distribution centers or from a job that requires steel-toed boots, you're welcome to bring a change of clothes and use our restroom.

For Mountain House and Tracy commuters who fight I-205 traffic, we recommend booking a morning or late-afternoon slot to avoid the worst of the rush. You can also choose any of our four offices: [Tracy](/locations/tracy), [Mountain House](/locations/mountain-house), [Manteca](/locations/manteca), or [Ripon](/locations/ripon). All four offices share patient records, so if you start in Tracy and want to follow up closer to home in Ripon, your file moves with you.

After your first adjustment, plan a low-key rest of the day. You don't need to take time off work, but a long run, heavy lifting session, or a 90-minute Bay Area commute right after treatment isn't ideal. Drink extra water, walk a little, and let your body settle.

Question 23

What should I do after my first chiropractic appointment?

Accepted Answer

After your first chiropractic appointment, focus on three simple things: drink plenty of water, move gently throughout the day, and avoid intense exercise or heavy lifting for the first 24 hours. Most patients feel better within a day or two, and many notice improvement immediately.

Water matters because adjustments release tension in muscles and joints, and well-hydrated tissue recovers faster. Aim for at least 8 glasses on the day of your adjustment. Gentle walking is also helpful. A 15 to 20 minute walk around your Tracy neighborhood (Edgewood, Plescia Ranch, or downtown) helps your nervous system integrate the changes from the adjustment.

Things to avoid for the first 24 hours:

- Heavy lifting at work or the gym
- Long car commutes if you can reschedule them
- Hot tubs or saunas (heat can increase post-adjustment soreness)
- Sleeping on your stomach, which strains the neck

If you have mild soreness, ice the area for 15 minutes at a time. Avoid heat for the first day, since it can increase inflammation.

Most treatment plans involve a series of visits, not just one. Research published by the [National Library of Medicine](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29371112/) shows that patients with chronic low back pain see the best outcomes when chiropractic care is delivered as a structured series rather than a single session. The exact frequency depends on your condition. Acute injuries often need 2 to 3 visits per week for a few weeks, while [preventative care](/services/preventative-care) might be once a month.

Keep an eye on how you feel between visits and bring notes to your follow-up. Did the pain come back? Did it move? Did certain activities trigger it? This information helps us fine-tune your plan.

If you have any questions before your next visit, call the office. We'd rather answer a quick question than have you guess. You can also browse our [general FAQ](/faq/general) for common follow-up questions.

Question 24

Does insurance cover chiropractic care in California?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most health insurance plans sold in California do cover chiropractic care, though the amount they pay and the number of visits allowed will differ by plan. California Insurance Code Section 10176 requires that many group health policies offering physician services include chiropractic coverage when delivered by a licensed chiropractor, though plan-specific exclusions may apply. That means if your employer-sponsored plan covers doctor visits, it almost certainly includes chiropractic benefits.

In practice, coverage usually works one of two ways. With a **copay model**, you pay a fixed dollar amount (often $20 to $50) per visit after meeting your deductible. With a **coinsurance model**, your plan pays a percentage (commonly 70 to 80 percent) and you pay the rest once your deductible is met. Most plans also cap the number of covered chiropractic visits per year, typically between 12 and 30, though medical necessity documentation can sometimes unlock additional visits.

At Valley Chiropractic, we verify your benefits before your first appointment so there are no billing surprises. We work with a wide range of commercial carriers across our [Tracy](/locations/tracy), [Mountain House](/locations/mountain-house), [Manteca](/locations/manteca), and [Ripon](/locations/ripon) locations.

If you want a deeper breakdown of plan types and what they typically reimburse in 2025 and 2026, our [chiropractic insurance coverage guide](/blog/chiropractic-insurance-coverage-california-2026-guide) walks through the numbers in plain language.

The bottom line: call your insurer, ask specifically about chiropractic benefits under your plan, and then call us. Our front desk team can cross-reference your benefits and give you a realistic cost estimate before you ever lie down on the table. We see patients for [chiropractic care](/services/chiropractic-care) for everything from low-back pain to headaches, and we want cost to be one less thing you worry about.

Question 25

Does Medicare cover chiropractic care?

Accepted Answer

Medicare does cover chiropractic care, but only in a very specific situation. Medicare Part B pays for spinal manipulation when it is medically necessary to correct a subluxation of the spine. That is the only chiropractic service Medicare currently reimburses. Services like massage, X-rays taken by a chiropractor, and any other diagnostic or treatment procedures are not covered under traditional Medicare, even if performed in our office.

Here is what the coverage looks like in practical terms. After you meet your Part B deductible (which is $257 in 2025), Medicare pays 80 percent of the Medicare-approved amount for covered spinal manipulation, and you are responsible for the remaining 20 percent. If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, that secondary policy may pick up some or all of that 20 percent coinsurance, depending on the plan letter you carry.

Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) sometimes offer broader chiropractic benefits than traditional Medicare, including coverage for additional services and more annual visits. If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan through a carrier like Anthem or Humana, it is worth calling the member services number on your card to ask specifically about chiropractic benefits.

We treat a significant number of Medicare-age patients at our [Tracy office](/locations/tracy), many of whom come in for [lower back pain](/pain/lower-back), [sciatica](/services/sciatica), and [disc conditions](/services/disc-conditions). These are exactly the kinds of medically necessary complaints that Medicare is designed to cover under its spinal manipulation benefit.

The American Chiropractic Association has pushed for years to expand Medicare chiropractic coverage, and legislation has been introduced in Congress to broaden it. For now, though, the medically necessary spinal manipulation rule is the standard. We will always tell you upfront what Medicare will and will not pay for so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Question 26

Does Blue Shield of California cover chiropractic care?

Accepted Answer

Blue Shield of California PPO and HMO plans generally do include chiropractic benefits, making Blue Shield chiropractic coverage one of the more straightforward situations we handle in the office. That said, the specifics depend on which Blue Shield plan you have, whether you chose a PPO, HMO, or Access+ HMO, and whether chiropractic care was included in your specific benefit tier.

For most Blue Shield PPO members, you can see an out-of-network chiropractor and still receive partial reimbursement, though you will pay more than if you stay in-network. Blue Shield HMO members generally need to see a chiropractor who is part of their designated network, and visits may require a referral depending on your plan's structure.

Common Blue Shield chiropractic benefits we see include:

- **Covered services:** Spinal manipulation, manual therapy, sometimes soft-tissue work
- **Visit limits:** Often 20 to 30 visits per plan year, subject to medical necessity review after a certain threshold
- **Cost sharing:** Copays typically range from $25 to $45 per visit for in-network providers
- **Prior authorization:** Some plans require it after the first several visits

Valley Chiropractic is in-network with many Blue Shield plans across the San Joaquin Valley. If you are a Tracy or Mountain House resident with a Blue Shield plan through your employer or Covered California, there is a good chance we are already contracted with your plan. Our team will pull your benefits before your first visit so you know your out-of-pocket cost.

Patients dealing with [neck pain](/pain/head-neck), [headaches](/services/headache-migraine-relief), or [pinched nerves](/services/pinched-nerves) are often relieved to find that Blue Shield covers a meaningful portion of their care. Give us a call or fill out our online form and we will handle the benefits lookup for you.

Question 27

Does Kaiser Permanente cover chiropractic care?

Accepted Answer

Kaiser chiropractic coverage exists, but it works differently than most other plans because Kaiser is a closed network. Kaiser Permanente members generally need to receive chiropractic care at a Kaiser facility or from a Kaiser-contracted provider to get any insurance benefit. If you see a chiropractor outside the Kaiser network, like us, Kaiser typically will not reimburse that cost under a standard Kaiser HMO plan.

Kaiser does offer chiropractic services at some of its Northern California facilities. Members can usually self-refer for chiropractic visits up to a plan-defined limit, and copays are often in the $25 to $35 range per visit. However, appointment availability can be limited, and the scope of techniques offered at Kaiser facilities may be narrower than what an independent chiropractic practice provides.

Some Kaiser members in Tracy and Mountain House choose to pay out of pocket to see us because wait times at Kaiser facilities can be long, or because they want access to a broader range of [chiropractic techniques](/services/chiropractic-techniques), including instrument-assisted adjusting, flexion-distraction for [disc conditions](/services/disc-conditions), and specialized care for [sports injuries](/services/sports-injury).

If you have Kaiser and want to explore your options, here are a few things worth knowing:

1. Check whether your specific Kaiser plan includes any out-of-network emergency or referral provisions that might apply.
2. Ask your Kaiser primary care physician whether a referral to an outside specialist is possible for your condition.
3. Consider our affordable cash-pay visit rates if you want to be seen sooner or receive a technique not available at your Kaiser facility.

We are transparent about costs for patients paying out of pocket. See our [pricing FAQ](/faq/pricing) for details. We want every patient in the San Joaquin Valley to get the care they need, regardless of which plan they carry.

Question 28

Do PPO plans cover chiropractic care, and what should I expect to pay?

Accepted Answer

PPO plans are typically the most flexible option for chiropractic care in California. With a PPO chiropractic benefit, you can usually see any licensed chiropractor, either in-network or out-of-network, without a referral. In-network visits cost you less because your insurer has negotiated a lower rate with contracted providers. Out-of-network visits are still partially covered by most PPOs, but your share of the cost will be higher.

Here is a realistic picture of what PPO cost-sharing looks like for chiropractic care:

- **In-network copay:** $20 to $50 per visit, after your deductible is met
- **In-network coinsurance:** If your plan uses coinsurance instead of copays, expect to pay 20 to 30 percent of the allowed amount
- **Out-of-network coinsurance:** Often 40 to 50 percent of billed charges, and your insurer may apply a lower "allowed amount," leaving you with a larger balance
- **Annual visit cap:** Most PPOs limit chiropractic visits to 20 to 30 per year, with additional visits sometimes approved based on medical necessity

Valley Chiropractic accepts insurance at all four of our offices: [Tracy](/locations/tracy), [Mountain House](/locations/mountain-house), [Manteca](/locations/manteca), and [Ripon](/locations/ripon). PPO members can use their benefits at any of these locations, whichever is most convenient. Many of the patients we see across these offices commute to the Bay Area or work long shifts in local warehouses and distribution centers. Sitting in traffic on I-205 or standing on a concrete floor for eight hours adds up. Lower back and mid-back pain are extremely common in this population, and PPO coverage makes it easier for these patients to get regular [preventative care](/services/preventative-care) without paying full price every visit.

A 2017 study published in JAMA Network Open found that adding chiropractic care to insurance coverage for low back pain was associated with lower overall healthcare costs and reduced opioid use, which is part of why insurers have continued to include chiropractic in PPO benefit packages ([source: JAMA Network Open, Whedon et al.](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2720917)).

If you are not sure whether Valley Chiropractic is in-network with your PPO, call any of our four offices or check out our [general FAQ](/faq/general) for more information on how our billing process works.

Question 29

Is chiropractic care covered after a car accident in Tracy or nearby cities?

Accepted Answer

Yes, chiropractic care after a car accident is typically covered, and in California the coverage pathway is a little different from your regular health insurance. After an auto accident, the primary payer is usually auto insurance, either the at-fault driver's liability policy or your own MedPay (Medical Payments) coverage. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is not mandatory in California, but MedPay is available as an add-on and directly pays medical bills regardless of fault.

Here is how it typically works in practice:

- **MedPay:** Pays your chiropractic bills directly up to your coverage limit, usually $1,000 to $5,000. No waiting, no fault determination needed.
- **Third-party liability:** The at-fault driver's insurance is responsible for your medical bills, but payment often comes after a settlement, which can take months. Many patients treat on a lien arrangement in the meantime.
- **Health insurance:** If auto coverage is exhausted or disputed, your health insurance becomes the secondary payer for accident-related chiropractic care.

Tracy sits along I-205 and Highway 580, two of the busiest corridors in the Central Valley. We see a steady stream of accident patients from Tracy, Mountain House, and along the Altamont Pass commute corridor. Whiplash, neck pain, and upper back strain are the most common injuries we treat after collisions. If you have been in an accident, the first 72 hours matter a lot for documentation and outcomes. Read more in our [auto accident chiropractor guide](/blog/auto-accident-chiropractor-manteca-first-72-hours).

Our [auto accident injury](/services/auto-accident-injury) and [whiplash treatment](/services/whiplash-treatment) pages explain what to expect clinically. Our [personal injury](/services/personal-injury) page covers the billing and lien process in more detail. We work with attorneys and insurance adjusters regularly, and we make sure your records are thorough enough to support your claim.

Do not wait to be seen. Delays in treatment can hurt both your recovery and your case. Call any of our four San Joaquin Valley offices and we will get you in quickly.

Question 30

What if I don't have insurance? Can I still get chiropractic care at Valley Chiropractic?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Having insurance is not a requirement to receive care at Valley Chiropractic. We offer straightforward cash-pay and self-pay rates for patients without insurance, and we also offer payment plans and discounted care packages for those who plan to come in regularly.

Chiropractic care is often more affordable out of pocket than people expect, especially compared to co-pays, specialist fees, and imaging costs that add up quickly in a traditional medical setting. A typical chiropractic visit at our offices is significantly less expensive than an urgent care visit or an ER copay, and you are getting hands-on treatment rather than just a prescription.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (part of the NIH) notes that chiropractic and spinal manipulation are among the most commonly used complementary health approaches in the United States, in part because they offer a cost-effective option for musculoskeletal conditions ([source: NCCIH, NIH](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/spinal-manipulation-what-you-need-to-know)).

We also want to point out that some conditions we treat are often not well covered even by insurance, including [prenatal chiropractic](/services/prenatal-chiropractic) care, [pediatric chiropractic](/services/pediatric-chiropractic) adjustments, and certain [extremity care](/services/extremity-care) treatments. For these services, many patients pay out of pocket regardless of their coverage status, and our self-pay rates are designed to be accessible.

If you are uninsured and managing a condition like [sciatica](/services/sciatica), [lower back pain](/pain/lower-back), or tension headaches, please do not let cost be a barrier to calling us. We would rather find a payment approach that works for you than have you go untreated. Visit our [pricing FAQ](/faq/pricing) for a general sense of our rates, or call the [Tracy office](/locations/tracy) directly and ask to speak with our billing coordinator. We are here to help you get better, whatever your insurance situation looks like.

Question 31

Is a pediatric chiropractor safe for my child?

Accepted Answer

Yes, pediatric chiropractic care is considered safe when performed by a licensed chiropractor trained in working with children. The techniques used on kids are very different from adult adjustments. For an infant, the pressure used is similar to what you would use to test the ripeness of a tomato, often just a fingertip touch. For older children, adjustments are gentler, shorter, and tailored to a growing spine.

A large review published in the journal Chiropractic and Manual Therapies looked at pediatric chiropractic safety and found that serious adverse events are rare, with most reported reactions being mild and temporary, like brief soreness or fussiness for a few hours. The American Chiropractic Association also recognizes pediatric care as a routine part of chiropractic practice when delivered by trained providers.

At our Tracy office, every pediatric visit starts with a full history and exam. We ask about birth, milestones, sleep, digestion, sports, and any falls or accidents. If we see anything outside our scope, like signs of an infection, fracture, or neurological red flag, we refer out to your pediatrician right away. Chiropractic is not a replacement for your child's regular medical care, it works alongside it.

A few safety points we always share with Tracy parents:

- Ask if the chiropractor has post-graduate training in pediatrics
- Expect very light pressure, not the popping cracks you may have had as an adult
- Your child should never be afraid or in pain during a visit
- You stay in the room the entire time

If you want to meet the team first, you can learn more about [Dr. Garrido](/doctors/dr-garrido) or visit our [Tracy location page](/locations/tracy) to see the office before booking.

Question 32

What age can a child start chiropractic for kids?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum age for chiropractic for kids. Babies can be checked within the first few days of life, and we regularly see newborns, toddlers, school-age children, and teens at our Tracy, Mountain House, Manteca, and Ripon offices. The technique simply changes based on the age and size of the child.

For infants under one year, we use sustained light contact and gentle cranial work. For toddlers and preschoolers, we use a small handheld instrument or fingertip adjustments. By the time kids are school-age and active in sports, we may use slightly firmer techniques, but still far lighter than adult care. You can read more about our methods on the [chiropractic techniques page](/services/chiropractic-techniques).

Common ages and reasons parents bring kids in:

- **Newborn to 6 months:** neck or jaw tension that may contribute to feeding difficulty (co-managed with pediatrician and lactation consultant), head turning preference, colic, torticollis
- **6 to 18 months:** delayed crawling, falls during walking
- **2 to 5 years:** frequent tumbles, posture
- **6 to 12 years:** backpack posture, scoliosis screening, sports starts
- **13 to 18 years:** youth athlete care, growth-related pain, tech neck

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes that spinal manipulation in children is generally well tolerated when performed by trained clinicians. Still, we never push families into care. If your child only needs one or two checkups a year, that is what we recommend. If a teen athlete needs weekly support during football season, we build that plan instead.

Many Tracy families first come in because a parent is already a patient and wants their kids checked after a fall from a bike on the Mountain House trails or a rough soccer practice at a local park. That is a great reason to schedule a screening.

Question 33

Can chiropractic help with infant chiropractic colic and fussiness?

Accepted Answer

The evidence on chiropractic care for colicky infants is mixed and still being studied. Some small studies, including a randomized trial published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, reported reduced crying time, but systematic reviews note the overall evidence is low quality and inconclusive. Chiropractic is not a treatment for colic itself, but gentle care may address musculoskeletal tension in the upper neck and mid-back that sometimes accompanies fussiness in newborns.

Colic is generally defined as crying more than three hours a day, three days a week, for at least three weeks in an otherwise healthy baby. It is exhausting for the whole family. Before assuming chiropractic is the answer, we always recommend ruling out reflux, food sensitivities, and feeding issues with your pediatrician first.

When parents bring a colicky baby to our Tracy office, a typical visit looks like this:

1. Detailed history of pregnancy, birth, feeding, and sleep
2. Gentle hands-on exam while baby is held by the parent
3. Light fingertip contacts at the base of the skull, mid-back, and pelvis
4. Home suggestions for tummy time, carrying positions, and sleep setup

Visits are short, often 10 to 15 minutes, and most babies sleep through them. We usually reassess after two or three visits. If we are not seeing meaningful improvement in crying, sleep, or feeding, we tell you honestly and refer you back to your pediatrician or a lactation consultant.

If you are a new parent in Tracy or Mountain House dealing with a fussy baby, you can also explore our [prenatal chiropractic services](/services/prenatal-chiropractic), which many moms continue postpartum while bringing baby in for checks.

Question 34

Do you offer scoliosis screening kids need during growth spurts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer scoliosis screening for kids at all four Valley Chiropractic offices, and we recommend it especially during growth spurts between ages 10 and 15. Early detection matters because scoliosis curves can progress quickly during puberty, and catching them early gives families more treatment options. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening girls at ages 10 and 12 and boys once around age 13 or 14.

A screening at our Tracy office takes about 15 minutes and includes:

- Adam's forward bend test to check for rib hump or asymmetry
- Postural photos to compare shoulder and hip levels
- Leg length check
- Range of motion testing
- Scoliometer reading if asymmetry is found

If we measure a curve that needs imaging, we refer for X-rays and coordinate with your pediatrician or an orthopedist. Chiropractic does not straighten a structural scoliosis curve, but it can help with the muscle tension, posture imbalance, and back pain that often come with it. For families dealing with diagnosed curves, our [scoliosis service page](/services/scoliosis) has more detail on what we can and cannot do.

Tracy and Mountain House have a lot of growing families, and we see kids whose school screenings missed early changes. Backpack habits matter too. Many local middle schoolers carry overloaded bags between classes, and we often spot asymmetry from one-shoulder carrying. A simple switch to a two-strap pack worn high can make a real difference.

If you have noticed one shoulder higher than the other, a tilted waistline, or a parent or sibling with scoliosis, schedule a screening. It is quick, painless, and gives you peace of mind during the fastest growing years of your child's life.

Question 35

How can a youth athlete chiropractic plan help my kid in sports?

Accepted Answer

A youth athlete chiropractic plan focuses on preventing injury, supporting recovery, and helping young athletes move well as their bodies change. Tracy and Ripon have strong youth sports communities, from Little League and Pop Warner football to club soccer and high school cross country. The repetitive motions and growth spurts that come with youth sports can lead to imbalances, strains, and overuse injuries if no one is paying attention.

Common issues we treat in young athletes:

- Sever's disease (heel pain in runners and soccer players)
- Osgood-Schlatter (knee pain in growing jumpers)
- Little League shoulder and elbow
- Low back tightness in gymnasts and cheerleaders
- Ankle sprains and recurring rolls
- Post-concussion neck stiffness (always co-managed with a physician)

Research summarized by the CDC's HEADS UP program emphasizes that young athletes recover differently than adults and need conservative, gradual return-to-play plans. We follow that principle. Our approach combines gentle adjustments, soft tissue work, and movement coaching. For specific complaints, we may also recommend [extremity care](/services/extremity-care) or [sports injury support](/services/sports-injury).

A typical plan for a youth athlete includes:

1. Movement screen at the start of the season
2. Tune-up visits every two to four weeks during the season
3. Targeted care after any fall, collision, or new pain
4. Off-season work on mobility and weak links
5. Parent and coach communication on training load

We never push a young athlete to play through pain. If something looks like a fracture, growth plate injury, or concussion, we refer to the right specialist immediately. Our goal is to keep kids in the sports they love while protecting the joints and spines they will use for the next 70 years. If your child is dealing with a current injury, you can also read about our [head and neck pain care](/pain/head-neck) or [lower back pain treatment](/pain/lower-back).

Question 36

What does a first pediatric visit at Valley Chiropractic look like?

Accepted Answer

Your child's first pediatric visit at our Tracy office takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is built around making your child comfortable. Parents stay in the room the whole time, and we keep the language and tone kid-friendly. No surprises, no pressure, no scary equipment.

Here is what to expect:

1. **Intake paperwork:** birth history, milestones, injuries, current symptoms, sports, and school. You can fill this out at home before arrival.
2. **Conversation:** we talk with you and your child about what is going on. Older kids are encouraged to describe their own symptoms.
3. **Exam:** posture check, range of motion, gentle hands-on assessment, neurological screening, and scoliosis check if age-appropriate.
4. **Findings:** we explain what we found in plain language, including anything we want to refer out.
5. **First adjustment (if appropriate):** light, brief, and only with your consent and your child's comfort.
6. **Home plan:** stretches, posture tips, backpack adjustments, sleep position suggestions.

We see families from across the Tri-Valley, including Mountain House commuter families who book after-school appointments and Manteca parents who come on weekends. You can find directions and hours on the [Tracy](/locations/tracy), [Mountain House](/locations/mountain-house), [Manteca](/locations/manteca), and [Ripon](/locations/ripon) location pages.

A few tips to help the visit go smoothly:

- Bring a comfort item for younger kids (stuffed animal, blanket)
- Dress your child in comfortable clothes they can move in
- Feed infants before the appointment when possible
- Bring any imaging or pediatrician notes if scoliosis or injury is involved
- Skip the long explanation in the car, just say "we are going to meet a doctor who helps your back move better"

If you have insurance questions before booking, our [insurance FAQ](/faq/insurance) covers what most local plans include for pediatric chiropractic. We are happy to verify benefits before your first visit.

Question 37

Is seeing a prenatal chiropractor safe during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, chiropractic care during pregnancy is considered safe for most women when provided by a chiropractor trained in prenatal techniques. The American Pregnancy Association states there are no known contraindications to chiropractic care throughout pregnancy, and many obstetricians refer patients for it to help manage musculoskeletal pain.

A prenatal chiropractor uses modified tables, gentle pressure, and pregnancy-specific positioning so you never lie flat on your stomach or have deep pressure on your abdomen. At our [Tracy office](/locations/tracy), we use pregnancy pillows and drop-piece tables that let mom rest comfortably on her side or in a semi-reclined position while we work on the pelvis and spine.

There are a few situations where we will pause care or coordinate closely with your OB or midwife first. These include vaginal bleeding, placenta previa or abruption, ectopic pregnancy, moderate to severe toxemia, or premature labor. If any of those apply to you, tell us at your first visit so we can adjust the plan.

For a healthy pregnancy, the bigger risk is usually leaving pain untreated. Many expecting moms in Tracy and Mountain House commute long distances to work in the Bay Area, and sitting for an hour or more in traffic each way puts real strain on a changing pelvis. Gentle [prenatal chiropractic care](/services/prenatal-chiropractic) can help keep you moving, sleeping, and working without resorting to medications that may not be ideal during pregnancy.

As with anything in pregnancy, talk with your OB or midwife, choose a chiropractor who routinely treats pregnant patients, and speak up about how each adjustment feels. A good prenatal chiropractor will always meet you where you are in your pregnancy and adjust technique accordingly.

Question 38

What is the Webster technique and why do prenatal chiropractors use it?

Accepted Answer

The Webster technique is a specific, gentle chiropractic adjustment designed for pregnant patients. It focuses on balancing the pelvis, sacrum, and the muscles and ligaments that support the uterus. The goal is to reduce tension and torsion in the pelvis so that the baby has as much room as possible to settle into an ideal head-down position before delivery.

During a Webster adjustment, you lie on your side on a padded table. The chiropractor uses light, sustained contact on the sacrum and a soft release of the round ligament near the front of the pelvis. There is no twisting of the abdomen and no deep pressure on the belly. Most moms describe it as relaxing rather than forceful.

Research published through the [National Institutes of Health](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2647084/) has reviewed the Webster technique as a conservative option for pelvic balance during pregnancy, with reported case series suggesting improved comfort and pelvic alignment. While more large studies are needed, the technique has a strong safety record when performed by a trained provider.

Webster is often used in the [third trimester chiropractic](/services/prenatal-chiropractic) phase, especially between weeks 28 and 36, when babies are getting into birth position. Some midwives in the Tracy and Mountain House area refer patients specifically for Webster work if a baby is sitting transverse or breech, although the technique is not a breech-turning maneuver. It simply restores pelvic balance so the baby can move more freely on its own.

If you want this technique specifically, ask whether your chiropractor is certified or trained in Webster. At Valley Chiropractic, our doctors regularly use it alongside other gentle [chiropractic techniques](/services/chiropractic-techniques) tailored for pregnancy.

Question 39

Can a chiropractor help with pregnancy back pain and sciatica?

Accepted Answer

Yes, easing pregnancy back pain is one of the most common reasons women come to see us. Studies estimate that 50 to 70 percent of pregnant women experience low back pain at some point, according to research summarized by the [National Library of Medicine](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2647091/). That pain often shows up in the lower back, hips, pubic bone, or down the leg as sciatica.

The cause is mechanical. As your belly grows, the curve in your lower back deepens, your pelvis tips forward, and the joints loosen due to the hormone relaxin. Add a long commute on I-205 or I-580, a desk job, or chasing a toddler, and small irritations turn into daily pain.

A prenatal adjustment uses gentle, low-force techniques to reduce joint restriction in the [lower back](/pain/lower-back) and pelvis. We also work on the hips and the piriformis muscle, which is a common source of [sciatica](/services/sciatica) during pregnancy. Many patients feel relief after the first or second visit, although deeper changes usually take a short series of appointments.

We often pair adjustments with [prenatal massage](/services/prenatal-massage) for moms who have a lot of muscle tension across the mid back, glutes, or hips. Massage on a side-lying table can take pressure off the round ligaments and help you sleep better at night.

We also send you home with simple stretches, pelvic tilts, and tips for sitting and sleeping. Small changes like a pillow between the knees or a lumbar roll in the car make a real difference for Tracy commuters who spend hours seated each week. The goal is not just to relieve today's pain, but to keep your pelvis balanced and comfortable all the way through delivery.

Question 40

Is chiropractic during pregnancy safe in the first trimester?

Accepted Answer

Yes, chiropractic during pregnancy is generally considered safe in the first trimester for healthy pregnancies, and many women come in early specifically for nausea-related neck tension, headaches, or low back pain. Current research has not identified an increased risk of miscarriage from gentle prenatal chiropractic care in an otherwise normal pregnancy.

In the first trimester, your belly is not large yet, so positioning is easier. We still use pregnancy-specific techniques and avoid deep abdominal pressure, but you can usually lie face down comfortably with a small bolster. We focus on the upper back, neck, and pelvis, which often get tight from poor sleep and from hunching over during waves of morning sickness.

Before starting care, we ask about your full health history, any prior pregnancy complications, and whether your OB has flagged anything as high risk. If you have a history of recurrent miscarriage, bleeding, or known placental issues, we coordinate with your OB before any adjustment. Otherwise, gentle prenatal work is a reasonable, drug-free option for symptoms that would normally have you reaching for medications you would rather skip.

The [American Chiropractic Association](https://www.acatoday.org/) notes that chiropractic care can be a valuable part of prenatal wellness for many women. Combined with good hydration, walking, and prenatal vitamins, it helps your body adapt to the changes that come quickly in those first 12 weeks.

For moms in Mountain House and Tracy who already had regular chiropractic care before getting pregnant, we simply switch to prenatal techniques and continue. For first-time chiropractic patients, we take extra time at the [first visit](/faq/first-visit) to explain what each adjustment does and how it will feel.

Question 41

What does a third trimester chiropractic visit look like?

Accepted Answer

Third trimester chiropractic visits are slower, gentler, and more focused on comfort and birth preparation. By weeks 28 to 40, your belly is large, your ligaments are very loose, and even small misalignments in the pelvis can cause significant pain. The goal in this stage is pelvic balance, symptom relief, and helping baby get into a good position for labor.

You will not lie flat on your back or stomach. We use side-lying positions with pillows supporting the belly, knees, and head. Adjustments are low force and often performed with a drop-piece table or a small handheld instrument. The Webster technique is commonly used in this phase to keep the sacrum and pelvic ligaments balanced.

Many of our Tracy and Ripon patients come in once a week during the third trimester. Common complaints include pubic bone pain, hip pain when rolling over in bed, sciatic pain down one leg, rib pain from baby kicking up into the diaphragm, and pressure in the lower back from standing too long. We address each of these with specific, gentle techniques.

We also talk about labor positioning, including which positions tend to open the pelvis during contractions. Some patients combine adjustments with [prenatal massage](/services/prenatal-massage) in the final weeks to ease swelling and tension in the lower legs and lower back.

If your baby is breech at 32 to 34 weeks, your OB or midwife may suggest trying Webster work along with positions and exercises like those taught by Spinning Babies. We do not turn babies, but we aim to restore pelvic balance so the baby has room to move freely. If you are within driving distance of any of our offices in [Tracy](/locations/tracy), [Mountain House](/locations/mountain-house), [Manteca](/locations/manteca), or [Ripon](/locations/ripon), we are happy to coordinate care with your birth team.

Question 42

How do I find a qualified prenatal chiropractor in Tracy?

Accepted Answer

Look for a chiropractor who routinely treats pregnant patients, uses pregnancy-specific tables and pillows, and is trained or certified in techniques like Webster. Ask how many prenatal patients they see in a typical week. A provider who sees pregnant moms regularly will know how to position you, what to avoid, and how to coordinate with your OB or midwife.

Here are a few practical questions to ask when you call:

- Do you have a pregnancy table or pregnancy pillows for side-lying and prone positioning?
- Are you trained in the Webster technique?
- How do you adjust your approach in the first, second, and third trimesters?
- Will you communicate with my OB or midwife if needed?
- What does a typical prenatal treatment plan look like?

At Valley Chiropractic, our doctors including [Dr. Russell](/doctors/dr-russell) regularly care for expecting moms across Tracy, Mountain House, Manteca, and Ripon. We coordinate with local OBs and midwives, and we keep visits focused on what each patient needs that week, whether that is sciatica relief, help with pubic bone pain, or pelvic balancing in the third trimester.

If you have never been to a chiropractor before, read through our [first visit guide](/faq/first-visit) so you know what to expect. You can also read our blog post on [prenatal chiropractic care in Tracy](/blog/prenatal-chiropractic-care-tracy) for more details about how we structure prenatal treatment plans.

Most importantly, listen to your body. A good prenatal chiropractor will never push you into a position that hurts, never use high-force techniques on a pregnant belly, and will always check in about how you are feeling between visits. If something feels wrong, speak up. Pregnancy is the right time to be a strong advocate for what your body needs, and the right provider will welcome that conversation.

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