When you schedule an appointment at The Hetrick Center, you’re stepping into a clinic where chiropractic, physical therapy, aquatic therapy, and massage therapy work together to restore movement, ease pain, and keep you doing what you love. Below you’ll find the questions that we hear most often. We want you to walk through our doors feeling confident and prepared.
✅ COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CHIROPRACTIC CARE
1. What is Chiropractic Care?
Answer: A hands-on health profession focused on the spine, joints, and nervous system. Chiropractors use precise manual adjustments, instrument-assisted techniques, and soft-tissue work to restore mobility, alleviate nerve interference, and encourage the body’s innate healing response.
2. Does chiropractic care hurt?
Answer: Most patients feel relief during and after an adjustment. You might hear a “pop” or “crack,” which is just gas being released from the joint. If you’re sore afterward, it’s usually similar to post-workout muscle soreness and goes away within a day or two.
3. What conditions do chiropractors treat?
Answer: Chiropractors commonly treat back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, joint pain, muscle tension, and posture issues. They also help manage symptoms from conditions like herniated discs, arthritis, and even TMJ.
4. Is chiropractic safe?
Answer: Yes—when performed by a licensed and trained chiropractor, it’s extremely safe. Chiropractors are trained to evaluate whether you’re a good candidate for care, and they adjust their techniques based on age, condition, and comfort level.
5. Do I need a referral from a doctor?
Answer: Usually no. Most insurance plans allow you to see a chiropractor without a referral. If you’re unsure we will find out and let you know, our in-house billing team will verify your insurance benefits and requirements prior to your initial appointment.
6. How often do I need to come?
Answer: That depends on your condition and goals. Some patients feel better after just a few visits, while others benefit from ongoing care to manage chronic conditions or prevent flare-ups. Your chiropractor will create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.
7. Can I get adjusted if I’m pregnant?
Answer: Yes! Chiropractic care is safe during pregnancy and can help relieve low back pain, pelvic discomfort, and even improve positioning of the baby. We use pregnancy-safe tables and/or positioning.
8. What’s that popping sound during an adjustment?
Answer: It’s called cavitation—the release of gas (mostly nitrogen) from the joint space when pressure is released. It’s completely normal and not a sign of bones “cracking.”
9. Can kids and teens go to the chiropractor?
Answer: Absolutely. Children can benefit from chiropractic care for things like posture, sports injuries, growing pains, and even colic or ear infections in infants. Pediatric adjustments use gentle, modified techniques.
10. Can I see a chiropractor if I’ve had back surgery?
Answer: Yes—in many cases, chiropractic care can be safely performed after spinal surgery. Your chiropractor will review your surgical history and imaging to tailor a plan that avoids restricted areas and supports healing.
11. Is it okay to combine chiropractic with physical therapy or massage?
Answer: Yes—and in fact, we recommend it! At The Hetrick Center, integrated care allows us to align the spine and strengthen the muscles that support it. This combination leads to better, longer-lasting results.
✅ COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PHYSICAL THERAPY
1. What is Physical Therapy?
Answer: Physical therapy is a science-backed approach to restoring how your body moves and functions. It focuses on relieving pain, improving mobility, and helping you get back to doing what you love—whether that’s daily tasks, work, or athletics. Treatment may include guided exercises, hands-on techniques, and specialized tools like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
2. What does a physical therapist do?
Answer: Physical therapists are trained experts in human movement. They identify what’s limiting your function—whether it’s weakness, stiffness, poor balance, or pain—and develop a customized plan to fix it. Using movement, hands-on care, and education, they work with you to rebuild strength, restore confidence, and prevent future injuries.
3. Do I need a referral to start PT?
Answer: Not always. Pennsylvania allows direct access to physical therapy for up to 30 days without a referral. Some insurances still require one—we’ll check and let you know before your first visit.
4. What conditions do physical therapists treat?
Answer: PT helps with a wide range of conditions including back and neck pain, joint pain, post-surgical recovery, sports injuries, arthritis, balance issues, dizziness/vertigo, tendonitis, carpal tunnel, pelvic floor dysfunction, and more.
5. What should I expect at my first appointment?
Answer: Your first visit will include a detailed evaluation where the therapist will review your history, assess your movement, and identify the cause of your symptoms. You’ll also receive education and a plan of care.
6. What should I wear to physical therapy?
Answer: Wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely. Shorts are best if we need to assess your knees or hips, and sneakers with good support are recommended.
7. Will physical therapy hurt?
Answer: Some exercises or manual techniques might cause discomfort, especially if you’re recovering from an injury or surgery—but PT shouldn’t be painful. Your therapist will work within your tolerance and modify as needed.
8. What is manual therapy?
Answer: Manual therapy is hands-on treatment performed by your therapist to improve joint mobility, decrease muscle tension, and relieve pain. It may include soft tissue massage, joint mobilizations, myofascial release, or stretching techniques.
9. How many visits will I need?
Answer: It depends on your diagnosis, goals, and how your body responds to treatment. Some patients feel better in just a few sessions, while others with more complex conditions may need several weeks of care. Your PT will review your progress regularly and adjust as needed.
10. Can physical therapy help me avoid surgery?
Answer: In many cases, yes. Physical therapy can strengthen muscles, improve alignment, and relieve pressure on joints or nerves—sometimes eliminating the need for surgery altogether. Even if surgery is necessary, pre-surgical PT (prehab) can improve outcomes.
11. Will I get exercises to do at home?
Answer: Absolutely. Your home exercise program is a key part of your recovery. These exercises reinforce what you do in the clinic and help you build strength, flexibility, and stability over time.
12. Can I do physical therapy and other services like chiropractic or massage?
Answer: Yes! At The Hetrick Center, we specialize in integrated care—which means our providers work together across disciplines. PT paired with chiropractic or massage therapy can lead to faster progress and longer-lasting results.
13. Will insurance cover physical therapy?
Answer: Most major insurance plans cover physical therapy. Our team will verify your coverage ahead of your first appointment and explain any copays or deductibles, so you know exactly what to expect.
“In March 2024, I sustained multiple displaced fractures in my left ankle, lower leg and right foot when I fell at home. As Jared would say, (“It was an injury of torque, not force.”) after being bedridden for a month, a CT scan revealed that my injuries were worst than initially thought facing the possibility of never walking again, I had bimalleolar ORIF ankle surgeons with two plates and ten screws to stabilize the ankle. Eight weeks later, I arrived at The Hetrick Center in a wheelchair and wearing CAM-boots on both legs, unable to stand up or walk, I would begin each session in the pool. Aquatic therapy played a crucial role in my early to mid orthopedic recovery, restoring my gait and confidence. Each session would continue with land-based therapy, starting with basic exercises to reduce muscle atrophy and progressing to more challenging going activities to regain strength and agility. Over almost one years time, and with hard work, I went from wheelchair bound to walking to a cane, to walking unassisted at 97% of my original range of motion and capabilities. I cannot say enough about the kind, caring and patient Hetrick Center Physical Therapists & support staff. Their knowledge and encouragement have helped me through one of the most difficult experiences of my life. Zach, Jared, Amber, Jenna, Christy, Allyson, Faith, Becky and Helene…. THANK YOU for helping me get my life back. Love you all. :)” – Tammy
Why Chiropractic & Physical Therapy Are Better Together
| Chiropractic | Physical Therapy | Synergy |
| Restores joint alignment and optimizes nervous-system signaling. | Builds strength and stability in the muscles supporting those joints. | Adjustments create instant mobility that PT exercises reinforce—so the change sticks. |
| Relieves pain quickly by reducing pressure on nerves. | Teaches movement patterns that prevent the pain from returning. | Combined care shortens recovery time and lowers re-injury risk. |
| Emphasizes the spine (the body’s “command center”). | Emphasizes global kinetic chains (how every segment works together). | Together they address both the “control panel” and the “hardware.” |
Bottom line: Adjust‐then‐exercise beats exercise alone and adjustment alone for most spine- and joint-related conditions.
✅ COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT AQUATIC THERAPY
1. What is Aquatic Therapy?
Answer: Therapy that harnesses water’s natural buoyancy, resistance, and hydrostatic pressure. Working in our warm-water pool (around 94°F) allows you to exercise with less joint stress, making it ideal for post-surgical rehab, arthritis, balance deficits, or weight-bearing restrictions.
2. What conditions is aquatic therapy good for?
Answer: Aquatic therapy is great for arthritis, joint pain, post-surgical rehab (especially knees, hips, and spine), chronic pain, fibromyalgia, balance issues, neurological conditions, and patients who can’t tolerate land-based therapy due to weight-bearing pain or instability.
3. What should I wear for aquatic therapy?
Answer: Wear a comfortable swimsuit, a t-shirt or tank top and shorts, or a rash guard – we want you to be comfortable and able to move easily. Avoid delicate clothing, denim, and long pants; remove jewelry before entering. Water shoes with a non-slip sole are optional. Don’t forget a towel and dry clothes to change into after your session.
Check out this video to see some suggestions on what to wear in the pool – https://www.facebook.com/reel/440962159040983
4. Do I need to know how to swim?
Answer: Not at all! Our aquatic therapy pool is set to accommodate your height, and a therapist will be with you the entire time. You’ll always be in a safe, controlled environment—no swimming required. You will not be asked to put your head under the water either.
5. Is the water warm?
Answer: Yes. Our pool is maintained at a therapeutic temperature of around 94°F. It’s warm enough to relax tight muscles and joints, but cool enough for safe, low-impact exercise.
6. How is aquatic therapy different from regular physical therapy?
Answer: In the water, your body feels lighter, which reduces joint pressure and pain. The water also provides gentle resistance in all directions, helping build strength and balance without high impact. It’s ideal for patients who struggle with pain or mobility on land.
7. How long is each session?
Answer: Sessions typically last 30 minutes. Your therapist will guide the session based on your goals and physical needs.
8. Can I do aquatic therapy and land-based PT at the same time?
Answer: Absolutely – many patients benefit from a combination of both.
9. Is aquatic therapy safe after surgery?
Answer: Yes, with clearance from your surgeon or doctor. Aquatic therapy is often recommended post-operatively (especially after joint replacements or spine surgery) because it allows for gentle movement earlier in recovery. We always follow your surgical precautions.
10. Will insurance cover aquatic therapy?
Answer: In most cases, yes. If your doctor has prescribed physical therapy, aquatic therapy may be included as part of your treatment plan. Our team will verify your benefits before your first session so there are no surprises.
11. Are there changing rooms and showers?
Answer: Yes! We have private changing areas and a rinse-off station. We recommend arriving in your swim gear and bringing everything you need to dry off and change after.
12. Do I need a referral?
Answer: Not always. Pennsylvania allows direct access to physical therapy, including aquatic therapy, for up to 30 days without a referral. Some insurances still require one—we’ll check and let you know before your first visit.
✅ COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MASSAGE THERAPY
1. What is Massage Therapy?
Answer: Massage therapy is the targeted manipulation of muscles and connective tissue to reduce tension, improve circulation, relieve stress, and support your body’s natural healing process. It’s beneficial for managing chronic pain, speeding recovery from injuries, and promoting overall wellness. At The Hetrick Center, our licensed massage therapists (LMTs) offer a variety of techniques, which are often integrated with chiropractic or physical therapy plans to maximize results. Massage can also enhance sleep, reduce anxiety, and give your immune system a healthy boost.
2. What types of massage do you offer?
Answer: Our licensed massage therapists offer a range of techniques, including:
- Swedish (light to moderate pressure for relaxation)
- Deep Tissue (firm pressure for chronic tension)
- Trigger Point Therapy (targeted work on knots or tight areas)
- Sports Massage (for athletes or active individuals). Massage can also be integrated with chiropractic or physical therapy for enhanced results.
- Prenatal Massage – Let the scheduling staff know how far along you are when scheduling so they can note that for the massage therapist
3. What should I wear to a massage appointment?
Answer: You’ll undress to your comfort level in a private treatment room. Most people choose to remove all or most of their clothing, but you’ll be fully covered with a sheet or towel the entire time. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to change into after your session.
4. Do I have to be completely undressed?
Answer: Not at all. You should undress only to your level of comfort. Your therapist will work around any clothing you leave on, and you’ll be properly draped at all times to ensure privacy and comfort.
5. Will the massage hurt?
Answer: Massage shouldn’t be painful. Some techniques (like deep tissue or trigger point) may feel intense, but you’re always in control. Let your therapist know if pressure is too much—they’ll adjust accordingly.
6. How long is a typical massage session?
Answer: Sessions range from 30-120 minutes, depending on your needs and goals; 60 minutes is the most popular choice. Your therapist will help you choose the right length based on the areas you’d like to focus on.
7. Can I get a massage if I’m also seeing a chiropractor or physical therapist?
Answer: Yes! In fact, massage therapy is a perfect complement to chiropractic and physical therapy. It helps relax tight muscles, increase range of motion, and prepare your body for adjustments or exercise-based rehab.
8. How often should I get a massage?
Answer: That depends on your goals. For stress relief, once or twice a month is common. For chronic pain or recovery, weekly or bi-weekly sessions may be recommended. Your therapist can help you create a plan that works for your schedule and needs.
9. Are there any conditions where I shouldn’t get a massage?
Answer: Massage is generally safe for most people, but it’s important to tell your therapist about any medical conditions, recent surgeries, infections, or pregnancy. We’ll tailor the session to keep you safe and comfortable. If you’ve recently had surgery, massage therapy should only be scheduled with your surgeon’s approval. Additionally, if you have a contagious condition—such as poison ivy, a skin infection, or illness—it’s best to reschedule your session to protect both your health and the safety of our licensed massage therapists.
12. Should I do anything after my massage?
Answer: Yes—drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activity, and take time to relax. You may feel very relaxed or slightly sore after a deep massage, which is totally normal. Staying hydrated will help your body recover and flush out toxins.
Still Have Questions?
Call/text us at 717-944-2225 or stop in during normal business hours for a tour.
Ready to start feeling better? Request your appointment online or give us a ring, and discover how integrated care at The Hetrick Center can move you from pain to performance—faster, safer, and with a team that’s got your back (and hips, knees, shoulders, and everything in between).