Choosing a Chiropractor is an important decision.
AREN’T ALL CHIROPRACTORS THE SAME?
While we share the same profession as our colleagues, there are some unique differences among all of us, different philosophies, educational focus, specialties, continuing education and experience.
“Types of Chiropractors
A good way to evaluate chiropractors is into the following three categories:”
Dr. Darin Mitchell
“Our Unique Model
◦ Comprehensive history - avg. time talking 20-30 mins- 83% of the diagnosis is made during just the history
◦ Careful consideration and empathy of your internal environment, life’s traumas and dramas and how they impact and triggers of the subconscious nervous system and ultimately your physiology
◦ Physical Exam: Height, weight, blood pressure, InBody composition, Nitric Oxide testing in house. Traditional ROM, motor, sensory and deep tendon reflex testing, orthopedic and neurological testing. Postural, feet and gait analysis. Leg length both functional and anatomical (specific testing required and after failed functional techniques fail).
◦ X-rays typically after trauma, red flags identified on history and physical, or if failed conservative treatment fails
◦ Advanced imaging such as MRIs when needed
◦ Functional muscle/joint testing.
◦ Hands on approach- palpation, myofacial and instrument soft tissue techniques, mobilization, manipulation, muscle, fascial and skin
◦ Advanced spinal and extremity adjustments
◦ T.T.A.P.S.™ Method
◦ Active assisted stretching
◦ Traditional physiotherapies - electric stimulation, TENS, Ultrasound
◦ Advanced new technologies- Class IV laser, PEMF, cervical and lumbar decompression tables
◦ Active Rehabilitation- in house gym and personal trainer and doctor supervised
◦ NAQ - Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire
◦ Food Log and Symptoms journal
◦ All past medical records typically requested and encouraged to bring
◦ Blood Chemistry Analysis - comprehensive full panel based on what the patient needs not just what’s allowed by insurance plan
◦ Functional Lab Testing- genetics, stool, adrenals
◦ Working Report of Findings - typically same day treatment
◦ Treatment Plans: Based on necessity, severity, acute vs chronic (Combination of those listed above, but also multiple same day appointments for chronic and out of town patients)
◦ Functional Nutritional Analysis with individualized treatment recommendations
◦ Nutraceuticals and supplements usually recommended
◦ Dietary Changes - probable
◦ Referrals to: as needed or in team work model: MD, DO, ND, Accupuncturist, Physical and Occupation therapists, EMDR therapist, primary doctor, orthopedic and neurosurgeons, pain management, massage therapist, other chiropractors
◦ Maintenance treatment for some especially chronic patient, acute given the option or return as needed suggested if you have pain lasting more than two days
◦ After successful resolution of complaints education and movement into a Health, Wellness and Prevention patient , “Philosophy-Based” Chiropractors - sometimes called “straight” or “subluxation” based
◦ History and physical exam
◦ Usually spinal X-rays are performed before treatment
◦ Report of Findings - may or may not received same day treatment, second day report of finding with presentation of proposed treatment plan
◦ Typical treatment plans (i.e. 3x/week for 1 month, 2x/week for 1 month, 1x/week for 1 month)
◦ Main focus of treatment is the spinal adjustments only Traditional Chiropractic: Passive (Doctor treats you)
◦ Minimal active care and/or limited to no nutrition/supplements
◦ Possible dedicated re-exam and repeat X-rays
◦ Maintenance spinal manipulation encouraged “
Dr. Darin Mitchell
“Mixed, Evidence-Based Chiropractors.
◦ History
◦ Physical exam
◦ X-rays may be recommended especially after a trauma, but not for every patient is treated
◦ Report of Findings - usually same day and treatment is initiated same day
◦ Active (team approach between Doctor and patient to obtain patient goals)
◦ Typical treatment plan: Individualized for the patient and their condition (some conditions take only 1-2 visits, same may take up to 12+ visits)
◦ Spinal and extremity adjustments
◦ Adjustments, exercise therapy, muscle therapy, nutrition, ergonomics, patient education
◦ Basic supplements utilized Possible dedicated re-exam
◦ Treat and release, (“maintenance” is staying active, eating healthy and living life)
◦ To return PRN - “as needed”
Dr. Darin Mitchell
“Traditional, Philosophy-Based Chiropractors - sometimes called straight or subluxation based
◦ History and physical exam
◦ Usually spinal X-rays are performed before treatment
◦ Report of Findings - may or may not received same day treatment, second day report of finding with presentation of proposed treatment plan
◦ Typical treatment plans (i.e. 3x/week for 1 month, 2x/week for 1 month, 1x/week for 1 month)
◦ Main focus of treatment is the spinal adjustments only Traditional Chiropractic: Passive (Doctor treats you)
◦ Minimal active care and/or limited to no nutrition/supplements
◦ Possible dedicated re-exam and repeat X-rays
◦ Maintenance spinal manipulation encouraged”
Our Philosophy
At Natural Health Houston, we specialize in difficult or non-responsive cases. Dr. Mitchell continues to dedicate his life and career to finding and fixing the underlying root causes of dysfunction in the human body that was so brilliantly intelligently designed.
We don’t just address your symptoms we address you, the whole person.
About Natural Health Houston
Natural Health Houston (NHH) was found in 1999 by Dr. Darin Mitchell, and has served the Houston community for 26 years. Located in central Houston near Shepherd and 59, Dr. Mitchell has had the opportunity to treat thousands of patients, everything from young kids, older adults, famous athletes and patients injured in auto accidents.
Dr. Mitchell has expanded the scope of services offered to more than just chiropractic care. He truly believes in healing the whole person, not just the pain. In his years of practice, Dr. Mitchell and his staff have incorporated Natural Medicine into their practice, offering a holistic treatment approach.
Lastly, Natural Health Houston is a true partner for personal injury cases. Built upon years of strong relationships in Houston with lawyers and medical doctors alike. NHH can help you not only treat your accident pain, but also give you the right path to take, in order to get compensated for your pain and suffering. If you get in a wreck, do not think twice about giving us a call!
Please click below for doctor bios, and if you need more information, feel free to reach out to us on our contact page.
