(Community Matters) Yesterday went to a chiropractor for the first time – at the recommendation of my new personal fitness trainer. I’m unfamiliar with chiropractics so I had way many questions. Hope I didn’t come across as too skeptical. I actually liked the doctor.
Xrays revealed my spine is bent a bit to the left, which reconciles with my muscle spasms. When they occur my right leg becomes about 1 – 2 inches shorter. I asked if chicken or egg – whether spine driven or muscle driven, the doctor thinks spine driven and correctable. Best guess is 6 to 9 treatments including pressure point massage. So, I’m going down this path. New for me. Science or art?
hmm, reviewing my bill: $425 for a one-hour appt: $125 new patient exam, $65 adjustment, $55 manual therapy, $50 extra spinal adjustment, $135 xrays. Still mulling over how I think about these expenses. Some seem redundant
Community Matters 
I’m not too familiar with chiropractic either, but I do know a little bit about insurance. My mom used to be an insurance adjuster so i use to hear her gripe a lot! Lots of doctors bill what seems to be a lot on the surface, but that has a lot to do with what the insurance pays them. Depending on the provider and coverage, that doctor probably ends up recouping a lot less than you think. Your doctor may bill that, but may only get paid a small percentage based on what your insurance allows. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to your doctor. Most hospitals have large departments dedicated to answering these kinds of questions. Even a small office should have someone on staff who handles billing. It’s definitely complicated! Good luck!
ps- is that a zipper in the x ray?