Straight answers to the questions Council Bluffs patients ask us most about chiropractic care.
New to chiropractic, or just have questions before your first visit? Here are clear, no-pressure answers. Still not sure about something? Reach out — we are always happy to help.
What does a chiropractor do?+
Chiropractors diagnose and care for problems of the spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system. Using gentle, specific chiropractic adjustments, we help restore movement and ease pain by addressing the root cause — not just the symptom — without drugs or surgery as the first step.
Is chiropractic care safe?+
For most people, chiropractic adjustments are very safe when performed by a licensed chiropractor. We begin with a thorough history and exam to make sure care is appropriate for you, and we tailor the technique and force to your age, comfort level, and condition.
Does an adjustment hurt?+
Most patients feel little to no discomfort, and often immediate relief. You may hear a soft "pop," which is simply gas releasing from the joint. If you are sore, tense, or prefer low-force care, we offer gentle options, including Impulse instrument adjusting.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?+
No. You can book directly with us — no physician referral required. If your specific insurance plan happens to require a referral, our front desk will help you sort out the details before your visit.
How many visits will I need?+
It depends on your condition, how long you have had it, and your goals. After your exam and X-rays, we recommend a plan tailored to your needs to get you out of pain. There's no set end date — once your pain is resolved, we transition you into long-term wellness care. Many patients notice meaningful improvement within the first few weeks.
Will my insurance cover chiropractic care?+
Many plans include chiropractic benefits. We are happy to verify your coverage before you start and explain any deductible, co-pay, or visit limits up front. We also offer affordable self-pay options for patients without coverage.
What conditions do chiropractors help with?+
Common reasons people see us include back pain, neck pain, headaches and migraines, sciatica, disc problems, sports injuries, and poor posture. Care can also support everyday mobility and overall wellness.
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?+
Yes — gentle, pregnancy-adapted chiropractic care is widely used to ease back, hip, and pelvic discomfort during pregnancy. Our team uses prenatal-friendly methods tailored to each trimester.
Can children and babies see a chiropractor?+
Yes. Pediatric chiropractic uses very light, age-appropriate pressure to support comfort, posture, and healthy development. We tailor every visit to the child and always keep parents involved.
What should I expect on my first visit?+
Plan for about 20–30 minutes. We listen to your story, perform a thorough exam, take X-rays (for most patients), explain what we find in plain language, and — when clinically appropriate — provide your first gentle adjustment the same day.
Why do you take X-rays?+
X-rays let Dr. Nate see the position and condition of your spine. That allows him to create a care plan tailored to you and to rule out anything that would make an adjustment unsafe. X-rays are taken for most patients.
How long does a regular adjustment visit take?+
A typical adjustment appointment takes only about 5 minutes. Dr. Nate only adjusts patients, so daily visits are quick and specific — we know your time is valuable and we don't waste it.
What is the popping sound during an adjustment?+
That sound is called cavitation — a small release of gas, like bubbles, from the fluid inside your joint. It is normal, painless, and not your bones cracking. Some gentle techniques produce no sound at all.
How is chiropractic different from massage or physical therapy?+
They overlap and often work well together. Chiropractic focuses on restoring proper joint motion and nervous-system function through adjustments, massage targets soft tissue, and physical therapy emphasizes rehabilitative exercise. Our office provides chiropractic adjustments only.
Do you offer massage, therapy, rehab, or spinal decompression?+
No. We do not provide any therapy, massage, rehab, or spinal decompression. Dr. Nate is an adjustment-only chiropractor — care here is specific chiropractic adjustments, including Impulse instrument adjusting and hands-on flexion-distraction. If you need something outside our scope, we'll refer you.
Do you handle auto-accident or workers' compensation cases?+
No. We do not handle auto-accident or workers' compensation cases. If you have a question about your situation, call our office at (712) 828-0621.
Once I start, do I have to keep going forever?+
Our first goal is always to get your pain resolved. Once that happens, we recommend transitioning into long-term maintenance care to keep your spine in the best condition possible — Dr. Schanuth believes ongoing care is one of the best things you can do for your long-term health, and many patients choose to stay with us for life.
Are you accepting new patients?+
Yes — Schanuth Family Chiropractic welcomes new patients of all ages, and same-week appointments are often available. Ask about our new patient special when you book.
What areas do you serve?+
Our office is in Council Bluffs, and we welcome patients from across Southwest Iowa and the Omaha metro, including Omaha, Bellevue, Papillion, La Vista, Carter Lake, Crescent, Underwood, Treynor, Carson, Glenwood.
New Patient Special
$50
Consultation, Exam, X-rays (required for most patients), and Report of Findings.
There is no risk to see what we can do for you. Request an appointment and we'll call to confirm a time that works.
