Getting started
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
No. In Texas, chiropractors are direct-access providers. You can call and make an appointment yourself without a referral from another doctor. If your insurance plan requires a referral for chiropractic coverage, we can advise you on how to handle that.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Photo ID, your insurance card if you have one, and any imaging you've had done (X-rays, MRI, CT — we can read them or get them transferred). If you've been in an accident, bring any paperwork from the ER, police report if you have it, and your auto insurance information. Wear comfortable clothes that allow movement.
How long is a typical visit?
First visit is 45-60 minutes — we need time for a proper history, exam, and discussion of findings. Follow-up visits are usually 15-30 minutes depending on what's needed. Decompression sessions add another 20-25 minutes when prescribed.
What languages do you speak?
Dr. Ngo speaks English and Vietnamese. Both clinics have Spanish-speaking staff. If you need help in another language, let us know when you call and we'll do our best to accommodate.
Treatment
Does chiropractic care actually work?
For mechanical spine conditions — most low back pain, neck pain, headaches, and many disc problems — yes, and there's solid research supporting it. The American College of Physicians now recommends chiropractic and similar approaches as first-line treatment for low back pain, ahead of medication. What chiropractic doesn't treat: organic disease, fractures, infections, cancer, or anything that isn't musculoskeletal.
Will adjustments hurt?
The adjustment itself usually feels like relief, not pain. There can be brief mild soreness afterward, especially the first few visits, similar to what you might feel after a workout. If you're acutely injured, Dr. Ngo uses gentler techniques specifically appropriate for fresh injuries. We never force anything.
How many visits will I need?
Depends on what's wrong and how long it's been going on. Acute uncomplicated cases often resolve in 4-8 visits over 3-4 weeks. Disc-related cases typically run 12-20 visits over 8-12 weeks. Personal injury cases usually take 8-16 weeks of consistent treatment. We'll give you an honest estimate after the first visit and reassess as we go. We won't keep you coming if you're not improving.
Can chiropractic care prevent surgery?
Often yes — for many spine conditions, conservative care including chiropractic resolves the problem without surgery. About 75-80% of disc patients avoid surgery with proper conservative care. That said, some conditions genuinely need surgery, and we refer to spine surgeons when that's the right answer. We don't keep treating patients who aren't responding.
Will I need ongoing care forever?
Not usually. Most patients have an active treatment phase to resolve the problem, then either discharge entirely or transition to occasional maintenance visits to prevent recurrence. Some patients with chronic conditions benefit from periodic maintenance care; others don't need it. The goal is always to get you better and keep you better — not to create dependency on regular visits.
What if I had a bad experience with a chiropractor before?
Tell us what happened. Most bad chiropractic experiences come from rushed exams, generic treatment, or lack of communication. Dr. Ngo's approach is the opposite — thorough evaluation, honest discussion, and treatment matched to your specific problem. If after talking through it you're not comfortable proceeding, that's fine.
Insurance & payment
Do you take my insurance?
We accept most major health insurance plans, Medicare, workers' compensation, auto insurance Med Pay, and Letters of Protection from personal injury attorneys. We can verify your specific plan's coverage before your first visit — just call us with your insurance information.
What if I don't have insurance?
Cash and self-pay options are available with transparent pricing. You'll know exactly what your visit will cost before you walk in. We also offer treatment packages that reduce per-visit cost for patients who need a full course of care.
Specific situations
Can chiropractic care help during pregnancy?
Yes. Pregnancy creates significant mechanical stress on the spine and pelvis, and chiropractic care can help with pregnancy-related back pain, sciatica, and pelvic pain. Dr. Ngo uses techniques specifically appropriate for pregnant patients. We use specialized tables and positions that accommodate growing bellies.
Can children see a chiropractor?
Yes. Pediatric chiropractic care uses much gentler techniques than adult care. Common reasons parents bring children: sports injuries, posture issues, post-accident evaluation. We always explain what we're doing and why before doing anything with a child.
What's the difference between a chiropractor and a physical therapist?
Both treat musculoskeletal problems but use different primary tools. Chiropractors are trained extensively in spinal adjustment and joint manipulation. Physical therapists focus more on exercise prescription and modalities. Many patients benefit from both — Dr. Ngo refers to PTs when appropriate and works alongside them. Chiropractors are doctorate-level providers (D.C.) who can diagnose, order imaging, and serve as primary care for spine-related conditions.