Frequently Asked Questions
At Athens Spine And Injury
Find Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions from patients of Athens Spine and Injury!
What chiropractic services does Athens Spine and Injury provide in Athens, GA?
Athens Spine and Injury provides evidence-based chiropractic care including spinal adjustments, Active Release Technique, Graston, Rapid Release, and instrument-assisted adjusting. These methods restore joint mobility, reduce pain, and improve nervous system function. Led by Dr. Barry Hitchcock, the clinic focuses on long-term wellness and functional recovery for patients throughout Athens, Georgia.
What conditions do chiropractors at Athens Spine and Injury treat?
Chiropractors at Athens Spine and Injury treat back pain, neck pain, headaches, migraines, sciatica, and auto injury-related conditions. According to the American Chiropractic Association, spinal manipulation is effective for acute low back pain, which affects up to 80% of adults. The clinic uses targeted techniques to relieve pain and restore mobility safely.
What should I expect during my first chiropractic visit in Athens, GA?
During your first visit to Athens Spine and Injury, you’ll receive a comprehensive consultation, spinal evaluation, and posture assessment. Dr. Barry Hitchcock reviews your health history and explains a personalized care plan. Most new patients experience noticeable relief in the first few visits, supported by clear education on ongoing care and recovery goals. Find out more about the Athens Spine and Injury approach to new patients here!
Does Athens Spine and Injury accept insurance or offer payment plans?
Athens Spine and Injury accepts most major insurance plans and provides transparent pricing for all services. The clinic also offers flexible payment options for uninsured patients. According to the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, over 85% of chiropractic patients use insurance benefits, making care both accessible and affordable for Athens residents.
Is chiropractic care safe for all ages?
Chiropractic care is safe and effective for patients of all ages when performed by licensed professionals. Research published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics shows a very low rate of adverse events—less than 1 per million adjustments. At Athens Spine and Injury, all treatments are tailored to each patient’s age, condition, and comfort level.
Where is Athens Spine and Injury located and what are the office hours?
Athens Spine and Injury is located at 855 Sunset Drive, Suite 3, Athens, Georgia 30606. The clinic is open Monday through Thursday with morning and afternoon hours for convenience. Patients can easily schedule appointments online or by calling (706) 353-8032 for same-week availability and prompt care.
Why should I choose Athens Spine and Injury over other chiropractors in Athens?
Athens Spine and Injury stands out for its award-winning care, advanced certifications, and patient-centered approach. Dr. Barry Hitchcock holds a Primary Spine Care qualification and has been voted Athens’ Best Chiropractor four years in a row. The clinic’s combination of clinical expertise and compassionate service delivers consistent, lasting results for every patient.
More Common Chiropractic Questions Answered
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Hitchcock? No. You can call Athens Spine and Injury directly and schedule an appointment without a referral from your primary care doctor. Most insurance plans allow direct access to chiropractic care.
How long does a chiropractic visit take? Your first visit typically takes 45 to 60 minutes and includes a full health history, orthopedic and neurological examination, and your first treatment. Follow-up visits usually take 20 to 30 minutes.
Can I see a chiropractor if I have had back surgery? In most cases, yes. Dr. Hitchcock is experienced in treating post-surgical patients and will review your surgical history before recommending a treatment approach. Low-force instrument-assisted adjusting is available for post-surgical cases.
What is the popping sound during an adjustment? The popping sound is called cavitation — the release of gas (nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) from the joint fluid when the joint is gapped slightly beyond its normal range. It is completely harmless and similar to cracking your knuckles.
Will I need to keep coming back forever? No. The goal is to resolve your pain and restore normal function as efficiently as possible. Some patients choose to continue with periodic wellness visits after completing their treatment plan to maintain spinal health and prevent recurrence, but this is entirely optional.
What is Primary Spine Care? Primary Spine Care (PSC) is an advanced certification for chiropractors who act as the first point of contact for spinal conditions — similar to how a primary care physician is the first point of contact for general health. Dr. Hitchcock's PSC certification means he is trained to diagnose, treat, co-manage, and appropriately refer spinal conditions at an advanced level. Call (706) 353-8032 with any additional questions.