Frequently Asked Questions

Q: "Why choose chiropractic for spinal pain?"

Chiropractic can be a safe alternative to potentially harmful pain medications like Vioxx, Celebrex, and Ibuprofen.

Many cases of spinal pain develop from improper spinal movement or alignment (biomechanics). Abnormal spinal biomechanics can usually be traced to one or more previous traumatic incidents, such as a car accident, slip, fall, athletic injury, or other high impact force to the spine. On the other hand, repetitive movements or habits such as carrying a laptop on one shoulder, tennis, machine/equipment operation, data entry, long hours at a work station can also gradually lead to abnormal biomechanics. The abnormal movement of the spinal joints cause wear and tear to the cartilage and bone, and can result in pressure on spinal nerves that exit the spine, causing symptoms (pain, numbness, or weakness) in the arms, buttocks or legs. Surrounding muscles tend to stiffen as the body naturally attempts to stabilize the weakened area. Sometimes it can take decades for the abnormal biomechanics to generate enough pain to cause the patient to visit a doctor.

Chiropractic treatment attempts to improve abnormal biomechanics by employing spinal adjustments and supportive modalities such as light therapy, heat, ice, electrical stimulation, traction, therapeutic massage, stretches, and exercises. If the abnormal spinal biomechanics are improved, then often times the body can regenerate and heal injured tissues, and pain can be resolved.

In short, chiropractic is appealing because of its non-invasive nature and its emphasis in addressing the source of pain rather than the symptom itself. It is also a very safe form of treatment when done by a licensed chiropractor.

Q: "Does Northeast Chiropractic accept my insurance?"

Insurance Coverage
At Northeast Chiropractic we accept many health insurance plans. Chiropractors are primary-care providers, which means you will never need a referral to visit Dr. Kumar. We will need to verify your insurance benefits by calling the number on the back of your card. Benefits can be verified at the time of your first visit or we can check for you if you call us to provide us with your Full Name, Date of Birth, and Member ID. We are required by law to charge for all copays, coninsurance and you are responsible for all deductibles. We also offer affordable cash plans if you are without insurance. All major credit cards are accepted.

If you would like for us to check your insurance benefits online, click the link below:
Check My Insurance Coverage

Q: "I have chiropractic coverage under my insurance, buy you aren't listed in the network."
Not to worry! Just about all PPO plans have "out-of-network" benefits, which means you can go outside the network. There may be a deductible or co-pay for using an out of network provider, but these expenses can be paid in small portions. Please call our office for details.

For a doctor to be listed in the network, he/she usually has to agree to a capitated fee from the insurance company, which in many cases is barely enough to cover operating expenses. As a result, there is an incentive for these doctors to not utilize important treatment modalities, and to spend less time with the patient. If you are willing to pay a small co-pay to see an out-of-network doctor, you are rewarded by receiving more comprehensive care.

Q: "What can I expect on my first visit?

Brief Paperwork
Upon entering our office, we will have some brief paperwork for you to fill out. The paperwork provides us with general information about yourself and your condition.

Consultation
Once the paperwork has been completed, you will have a consultation with Dr. Kumar to discuss your health-related problems, concerns, as well as potential treatment options.

History and Examination
In order to determine what your actual problem is, the doctor will ask you various questions related to your condition. Next, a focused physical examination will be performed to determine the cause of discomfort, and the extent of injury.

X-rays/Diagnostic Testing
If needed we may order x-rays to be taken of the area of complaint but this is not always necessary and in most cases the diagnosis is made with information gathered by Dr. Kumar during the initial history taking and examination. If further information required other studies may be necessary such as MRI, CT or other form of diagnostic testing.

Same Day Treatment
Once finished with the examination and all appropriate studies, patients will generally be provided with their first treatment during this same visit. This may include spinal adjustments, physical therapy modalities and soft tissue therapies.

Home Instructions
Prior to leaving, patients typically will be given instructions on certain activities or procedures to be conducted at home. This may include ice or heat application instructions, avoidance of certain activities or positions, as well as home exercises and/or stretches.

Schedule Your Next Appointment
Our office manager will assist you with finding the most convenient appointment time for your follow-up visit.

212.245.5678

Frequently Asked Questions