A chiropractic exam is a pain- and stress-free procedure that will ultimately provide you with a boost in your quality of life. Through the exam, a chiropractor will be able to determine what steps to take to either correct a problem or to maintain a healthy condition.

The doctor will check the range of motion for various joints, including the neck. How far you can turn your head to the left and right can indicate whether you have a subluxation — the technical term for a misalignment of bones — in your spine. The chiropractor may also examine your spine by palpation — by touch.

In addition to their hands, a chiropractor may also use x-rays, video fluoroscopy or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose a problem. The chiropractor will check the length of your legs. Even a slight difference in the length of legs could indicate a subluxation. The doctor will also look at your posture and check particularly, as with the legs, if your shoulders are level. If one is higher than the other that, too, could indicate a spinal issue.

Don’t hesitate to visit a chiropractor. A healthy spine is essential to your quality of life. Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com