Frequently Asked Chiropractic Questions in Littleton CO

At Hurley Wellness, we believe chiropractic care is about so much more than relieving pain—it's about helping your body function at its best. Your spine and nervous system play a vital role in how your body moves, heals, and adapts to the demands of everyday life. When joints become restricted or aren't moving properly, they can affect mobility, comfort, and overall function.

As a chiropractor, my goal is to identify those areas of dysfunction and restore healthy movement through safe, gentle, and personalized chiropractic care. Every patient is unique, which is why I tailor each treatment to your individual condition, health goals, comfort level, and lifestyle. Whether that means traditional hands-on adjustments, gentle instrument-assisted techniques, or combining chiropractic care with acupuncture, rehabilitation, decompression, or other therapies, my focus is always on providing the care that's right for you.

I don't believe in simply chasing symptoms. I believe in finding the root cause of your concerns, educating you about your body, and partnering with you to create a plan that helps you move better, feel stronger, and enjoy a healthier, more active life.

Whether you're seeking relief from pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to optimize your health and nervous system function, chiropractic care can be an important part of helping you live life without limits. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring healthy movement, improving nervous system function, and reducing pain. At Hurley Wellness, we commonly help patients with a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Back Pain
• Neck Pain
• Headaches & Migraines
• Sciatica
• Herniated & Bulging Discs
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Pinched Nerves
• Whiplash & Auto Accident Injuries
• Sports Injuries
• Shoulder Pain
• Rotator Cuff Injuries
• Tennis Elbow & Golfer's Elbow
• Wrist & Hand Pain
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• TMJ (Jaw Pain)
• Rib Pain
• Hip Pain
• Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction
• Knee Pain
• Arthritis & Joint Stiffness
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Foot & Ankle Pain
• Muscle Strains & Ligament Sprains
• Tendonitis
• Pregnancy-Related Back & Pelvic Pain
• Postural Problems
• Work-Related Injuries
• Chronic Pain
• Reduced Mobility & Flexibility
• Wellness & Preventative Care

At Hurley Wellness, we understand that every patient is unique. Rather than simply treating symptoms, Dr. Shannon Hurley performs a comprehensive evaluation to identify the underlying cause of your condition and develops a personalized treatment plan that may include chiropractic care, acupuncture, spinal decompression, rehabilitation, shockwave therapy (EPAT), PEMF therapy, and other evidence-informed treatments. Our goal is to help you restore function, reduce pain, optimize your nervous system, and keep you doing the activities you love. Align • Restore • Thrive.

A chiropractic adjustment is a gentle, precise technique used to restore healthy movement to joints that are restricted or not functioning properly. By improving joint mobility, adjustments can help reduce pain, relieve muscle tension, restore function, and support your body's natural ability to heal.

At Hurley Wellness, every adjustment is personalized. Dr. Shannon Hurley selects the technique that best fits your condition, comfort level, and health goals, utilizing a variety of methods— including Diversified, Activator®, Logan Basic, SOT, Thompson Drop, and the Webster Technique for pregnancy.

Chiropractic adjustments aren't just for the spine. When appropriate, Dr. Hurley also treats the shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles, feet, ribs, and jaw to improve overall movement and function.

At Hurley Wellness, chiropractic care is about more than pain relief—it's about helping you move better, function better, and live healthier. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Yes. When performed by a licensed and properly trained chiropractor, chiropractic adjustments are considered a safe and effective treatment for many musculoskeletal conditions. At Hurley Wellness, your safety is always my highest priority.

Before recommending any treatment, I perform a thorough health history, comprehensive examination, and review any necessary imaging to determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate for your specific condition. Every adjustment is tailored to your age, health history, comfort level, and treatment goals—there is never a one-size-fits-all approach.

I also believe that the most effective care is the care that's right for you. Some patients prefer traditional hands-on adjustments, while others feel more comfortable with gentle techniques such as Activator®, Logan Basic, SOT, or Thompson Drop. My job is to meet you where you are and provide the safest, most comfortable treatment to help you move better, function better, and achieve your health goals.

Whether you're recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, pregnant, or simply looking to maintain your health, you can feel confident knowing your care is personalized, thoughtful, and focused on helping you achieve lasting results. Align • Restore • Thrive.

One of the most common questions I hear is, "How many visits will I need?" The honest answer is—it depends. Every person is unique, and your treatment plan should reflect your specific condition, health goals, lifestyle, and how your body responds to care.

At Hurley Wellness, I don't believe in cookie-cutter treatment plans. After a thorough evaluation, I'll explain my findings, discuss your options, and recommend a plan that's designed specifically for you. Some patients experience significant improvement in just a few visits, while others with chronic conditions, injuries, or more complex health concerns may benefit from a longer course of care.

My goal is never to keep you coming in longer than necessary. Instead, I want to help you feel better, move better, and give you the tools to maintain your progress. Once your symptoms improve, many patients choose to continue with wellness or maintenance care to support optimal movement, nervous system function, and long-term health—but that decision is always yours.

At Hurley Wellness, we're here to partner with you, educate you, and help you achieve your health goals every step of the way. Align • Restore • Thrive.

At Hurley Wellness, I believe chiropractic care is about more than relieving pain—it's about helping your body function at its best. When your joints move properly and your body functions more efficiently, you're better able to enjoy the activities you love and adapt to the physical stresses of everyday life.

The benefits of chiropractic care may include:

• Reduced back, neck, and joint pain
• Improved mobility and flexibility
• Better posture and movement
• Reduced muscle tension and stiffness
• Improved recovery from injuries
• Enhanced athletic performance
• Support for a healthy, well-functioning nervous system
• Better balance and coordination
• Fewer activity limitations
• Improved overall health and quality of life

Every patient is different, which is why I personalize every treatment plan to your goals, comfort level, and lifestyle. Whether you're seeking relief from pain, recovering from an injury, or looking to optimize your health through preventative care, my goal is to help you move better, function better, and live healthier. Align • Restore • Thrive.

At Hurley Wellness, your safety is my highest priority. Chiropractic care is considered a safe and effective treatment for many musculoskeletal conditions when performed by a licensed chiropractor and after an appropriate evaluation.

Like any healthcare treatment, chiropractic care does carry some risks. The most common side effects are mild and temporary, such as soreness, stiffness, or fatigue after an adjustment—similar to what you might experience after exercising. These symptoms typically resolve within 24 to 48 hours.

Serious complications from chiropractic adjustments are very rare. That's why I take the time to perform a thorough health history, comprehensive examination, and review any necessary imaging before beginning care. If chiropractic treatment is not appropriate for your condition, I'll discuss other options and refer you to the appropriate healthcare provider when needed.

I believe you should always understand your treatment options and feel confident in your care. My goal is to provide safe, personalized treatment that supports your health, respects your comfort level, and helps you achieve the best possible outcome. Align • Restore • Thrive.

For most patients, chiropractic adjustments are not painful. In fact, many people experience immediate relief, improved movement, and a sense of relaxation following treatment. Depending on your condition, you may feel mild pressure during an adjustment, and it's not uncommon to experience slight soreness afterward—similar to how you might feel after a good workout. This typically resolves within a day or two.

At Hurley Wellness, your comfort is always a priority. I understand that every patient is different, which is why I tailor each adjustment to your condition, comfort level, and personal preferences. Whether you prefer traditional hands-on techniques or gentler methods such as Activator®, Logan Basic, SOT, or Thompson Drop, I'll choose the approach that's right for you.

My goal is to make every visit a positive experience while helping you move better, feel stronger, and achieve your health goals with safe, personalized care. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Pain is often the last sign that something is wrong and one of the first symptoms to improve. At Hurley Wellness, I believe chiropractic care is about more than relieving pain—it's about optimizing your health, movement, and nervous system function.

Regular chiropractic care helps maintain healthy joint mobility, supports proper nervous system function, and keeps your body moving the way it was designed to. By addressing small problems before they become bigger ones, we can help you stay active, reduce the risk of injury, and support your long-term health.

At Hurley Wellness, we believe the best healthcare is preventative, not reactive. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Choosing a chiropractor is about more than finding someone to adjust your spine—it's about finding someone who truly listens. At Hurley Wellness, I take the time to understand your goals, educate you about your condition, and create a treatment plan that's tailored to your needs, comfort level, and lifestyle.

Rather than relying on a single technique, I combine chiropractic care with acupuncture, rehabilitation, spinal decompression, shockwave therapy (EPAT), PEMF therapy, and other evidence-informed treatments to provide the care that's right for you. My goal is simple: to help you move better, function better, and live a healthier, more active life. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Your first and second appointments are scheduled for approximately 45 minutes to allow time for a thorough evaluation, discussion of your health goals, and personalized treatment. After that, appointment lengths vary based on your individual needs and the treatments being provided. Follow-up visits may range from 5 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your condition and care plan. During your initial visits, we'll discuss your recommended treatment schedule and determine the appointment length that's most appropriate for your care.

Many people are surprised to learn that chiropractors receive extensive education and clinical training before entering practice. Becoming a Doctor of Chiropractic requires years of advanced study in anatomy, physiology, neurology, biomechanics, radiology, diagnosis, rehabilitation, nutrition, and hands-on patient care.

My educational journey began with undergraduate studies at the University of Wyoming, followed by graduate studies at the University of New Mexico as an Athletic Trainer before earning my Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Logan University, one of the nation's leading chiropractic institutions. In addition to my chiropractic training, I am also a Licensed Acupuncturist, allowing me to provide a more comprehensive and personalized approach to patient care.

At Hurley Wellness, I believe education never stops. I continually pursue advanced training and techniques so I can provide safe, evidence-informed care tailored to each patient's unique needs and goals. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Absolutely. Pregnancy places unique demands on the body, and many women experience back pain, pelvic discomfort, hip pain, sciatica, and postural changes as their baby grows. Chiropractic care can be a safe, gentle, and effective way to help improve comfort, mobility, and overall function throughout pregnancy.

At Hurley Wellness, I use pregnancy-specific techniques and treatment approaches designed with both mom and baby in mind. I am Webster Certified, having completed advanced training in the Webster Technique through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). The Webster Technique is a gentle chiropractic analysis and adjustment that helps improve pelvic balance and function, supporting greater comfort throughout pregnancy.

Every pregnancy is different, so I tailor each treatment to your stage of pregnancy, comfort level, and individual needs. My goal is to help you enjoy a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy while preparing your body for labor and delivery. Align • Restore • Thrive.

No. Chiropractic care is not physically addictive. The reason many patients choose to continue care isn't because they have to—it's because they enjoy how they feel when their body is moving and functioning at its best.

At Hurley Wellness, my goal is never to make you dependent on treatment. My goal is to help you achieve your health goals, educate you about your body, and give you the tools to maintain your progress. Some patients seek care only when they're in pain, while others choose periodic wellness visits to support healthy movement, optimal nervous system function, and a more active lifestyle.

Your care is always your choice. I'll provide my recommendations based on your condition and goals, and together we'll determine the treatment plan that's right for you. Align • Restore • Thrive.

No. Chiropractic care is not physically addictive. The reason many patients choose to continue care isn't because they have to—it's because they enjoy how they feel when their body is moving and functioning at its best.

At Hurley Wellness, my goal is never to make you dependent on treatment. My goal is to help you achieve your health goals, educate you about your body, and give you the tools to maintain your progress. Some patients seek care only when they're in pain, while others choose periodic wellness visits to support healthy movement, optimal nervous system function, and a more active lifestyle.

Your care is always your choice. I'll provide my recommendations based on your condition and goals, and together we'll determine the treatment plan that's right for you. Align • Restore • Thrive.

While you may be able to make your neck or back "pop," you can't truly adjust yourself the way a chiropractor can. Most self-manipulation only moves the joints that are already mobile, while the restricted joints causing the problem often remain unchanged.

At Hurley Wellness, I perform a thorough evaluation to identify exactly which joints need treatment and use precise, controlled techniques to restore proper movement safely and effectively. My goal isn't simply to create a popping sound—it's to improve function, reduce pain, and help your body move the way it was designed to.

If you find yourself constantly feeling the need to crack your neck or back, it may be a sign that there's an underlying movement imbalance that should be evaluated. I'd much rather address the root cause than have you rely on temporary relief. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Many insurance plans provide coverage for chiropractic care, but benefits vary depending on your specific plan. At Hurley Wellness, we accept many major insurance providers, including Medicare, BCBS, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Kaiser, VA Community Care (TriWest), workers' compensation, and personal injury claims.

Our team is happy to verify your chiropractic benefits, explain your coverage, and answer any questions before you begin care. If you don't have insurance or your plan doesn't include chiropractic benefits, we also offer affordable self-pay options so you can receive the care you need.

Our goal is to make high-quality, personalized care as accessible and stress-free as possible. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Yes. Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care, and it's one of the conditions I treat most often. At Hurley Wellness, I focus on identifying the root cause of your pain rather than simply treating the symptoms.

After a thorough evaluation, I'll create a personalized treatment plan that may include chiropractic care, rehabilitation, spinal decompression, acupuncture, or other therapies to help reduce pain, restore movement, and get you back to doing the things you love. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Yes. Neck pain can result from poor posture, stress, injuries, arthritis, or everyday wear and tear. At Hurley Wellness, I begin with a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause of your discomfort before creating a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Using personalized chiropractic care—along with rehabilitation, acupuncture, or other therapies when appropriate—my goal is to reduce pain, restore healthy movement, and help you get back to living comfortably. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Yes. Many headaches are related to tension, poor posture, muscle tightness, or restricted movement in the neck and upper back. At Hurley Wellness, I focus on identifying the underlying cause of your headaches rather than simply masking the symptoms.

Through personalized chiropractic care, and when appropriate, acupuncture, rehabilitation, and other therapies, my goal is to reduce the frequency and intensity of your headaches while helping you move, feel, and function your best. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Chiropractic care and physical therapy work hand in hand—they're not competing treatments. Chiropractic care focuses on restoring healthy joint motion, improving spinal and nervous system function, and relieving pain. Physical therapy focuses on strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, correcting movement patterns, and helping prevent future injuries.

At Hurley Wellness, I combine both approaches whenever appropriate. By restoring proper movement and rebuilding strength and stability, we can help you recover more completely, move with confidence, and achieve longer-lasting results. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Absolutely. As a former Athletic Trainer and chiropractor, I understand the unique demands that sports and an active lifestyle place on the body. Whether you're a competitive athlete or a weekend warrior, my goal is to identify the source of your injury, restore proper movement, and help you return to the activities you love safely and efficiently.

At Hurley Wellness, I combine chiropractic care with rehabilitation, soft tissue therapies, shockwave therapy (EPAT), acupuncture, and other advanced treatments to promote healing, improve performance, and help reduce the risk of future injuries. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Yes. Poor posture can contribute to neck pain, back pain, headaches, joint stiffness, and decreased mobility. At Hurley Wellness, I evaluate the underlying causes of poor posture—including joint restrictions, muscle imbalances, and movement patterns—rather than simply treating the symptoms.

By combining chiropractic care with rehabilitation and personalized exercises, my goal is to help you improve your posture, move more efficiently, and support your long-term health and function. Align • Restore • Thrive.

During a chiropractic adjustment, I use a gentle, precise technique to restore healthy movement to joints that aren't moving properly. Depending on your condition, I may use a traditional hands-on adjustment or a gentler technique such as Activator®, Logan Basic, SOT, Thompson Drop, or the Webster Technique.

Every adjustment is personalized to your comfort level and treatment goals. While some adjustments produce a popping sound, many do not—and both can be equally effective. My focus is always on restoring proper function, reducing pain, and helping your body move the way it was designed to. Align • Restore • Thrive.

Yes. Chiropractic care can be a safe and gentle option for children when provided by a properly trained chiropractor. Children's bodies are constantly growing and developing, and their treatment looks very different from an adult adjustment. Techniques are gentle, age-appropriate, and tailored to each child's size, stage of development, and individual needs.

As a Webster Certified chiropractor, I have advanced training in caring for pregnant patients and understand the importance of healthy growth, movement, and development from the very beginning of life. My approach is always gentle, personalized, and focused on helping children move well, develop properly, and stay active as they grow.

At Hurley Wellness, your child's comfort and safety are always my highest priorities. Align • Restore • Thrive.

This is an important question, and I believe patients deserve an honest, balanced answer. A rare type of stroke can occur after a vertebrobasilar artery dissection, which is a small tear in an artery of the neck. These dissections may happen spontaneously or after everyday activities, injuries, sports, coughing, sudden neck movement, or other forms of neck trauma.

Some studies have found an association between recent neck manipulation and cervical artery dissection, but an association does not necessarily prove that the adjustment caused it. One challenge is that a developing dissection can initially cause neck pain or a new headache—symptoms that may lead someone to visit a chiropractor before the condition is recognized. Current research has not conclusively established that chiropractic manipulation causes dissection in an otherwise healthy artery, but the possibility of a serious adverse event cannot be dismissed entirely.

At Hurley Wellness, I take this concern seriously. Before providing neck treatment, I review your health history, symptoms, risk factors, and examination findings. I also adapt care to your individual needs and comfort level. A neck adjustment is never automatic; gentler techniques, mobilization, soft-tissue care, rehabilitation, acupuncture, or referral for medical evaluation may be more appropriate.

Please seek emergency care immediately for sudden facial drooping, arm or leg weakness, difficulty speaking, loss of balance, vision changes, or a sudden severe or unusual headache. New neck pain or headache accompanied by dizziness, double vision, weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking also requires urgent evaluation.

My goal is not to minimize risk or create fear. It is to provide thoughtful, individualized care, discuss your options openly, and make decisions with your safety at the center of every visit. Align • Restore • Thrive.