Acute (traumatic) injuries

Injuries that occur after an unexpected event, such as a fall, a sports injury, a job accident, or motor vehicle accident.

Acute pain

The most common type of pain, often temporary in nature.

Adjustment

A form of chiropractic technique involving the application of gentle, yet firm, pressure to a bone. Adjustments employ a high velocity, low amplitude thrust. The goal of any adjustment is to restore the bone to its natural, or original, position.

Aerobic exercises

These kinds of exercises generally involve large muscle groups and foster a strong and healthy heart and lung function.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)

A ligament that lies in the middle of the knee. It prevents the tibia from sliding out in front of the femur, and provides rotational stability to the knee. The ACL can become stretched or torn by a sudden twisting motion. Chiropractic care, in conjunction with other medical treatment, may be beneficial for this condition.

Arthritis

A gradual breakdown, or deterioration, of the joint spaces and smooth bone covering in your musculoskeletal system. Chiropractic care, in conjunction with other medical treatment, may be beneficial for this condition.

Atlas

A large vertebra, or upper bone, in the upper cervical spine.

Authorization

Approval from an oversight entity, typically the member's health plan, to perform and bill for a service. Authorizations may be issued based on a particular service, a period of time or a combination of both. Authorization requirements vary by the type of service being rendered and each payor/health plan. For chiropractic services specifically, authorization requirements will vary. When required, however, it is typically the provider's responsibility to obtain an authorization for care.

Axis

A large vertebra, or lower bone, in the upper cervical spine.