Questions & Answers

What does muscle testing have to do with emotions?

Muscle testing, as used in Dr. Hambrick’s practice, is actually better defined and described as “functional neurology” because the muscle response is a reflection of how the nervous system perceives or experiences different stimuli. In the case of emotions, it has been shown scientifically that there is a “weakening” (or inhibition) of the muscle when stressful emotions and memories are evoked or stimulated. Dr. Hambrick uses a specialized technique called Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET) to access these stress patterns in the nervous system and then identify and apply simple, gentle methods to remove the “charge” or intensity of this stored memory or emotion from the body. This allows the nervous system to re-set itself around the aberrant or stressful situation.

What makes your approach different than a “regular” chiropractor?

Chiropractic practice was originally developed as a profession around the concept that dysfunction or disease is caused by structural, chemical or emotional stresses that become stored in the body and recorded in the central nervous system which is housed in the skull and spinal cord. There are many different techniques in the field of Chiropractic, all of which are designed and intended to remove interference to the natural expression of the life force that animates us. Applied Kinesiology is a technique that allows the doctor to directly and immediately access, through the functional neurology of muscle testing, your individual and unique response to stress. With Applied Kinesiology, Dr. Hambrick is able to identify how YOUR system responds to different stimuli in the moment that you are on the treatment table. For example, many excellent Chiropractic techniques utilize X-rays to analyze the spine for subluxations (bones out of place that put pressure on nerves, in theory). X-rays are static, one time snap-shots of the bones. Applied Kinesiology allows the doctor to put you into different positions and test to see how your nervous system reacts to changes. For example, if your pain or dysfunction only happens when you are sitting in a chair or car seat, the X-ray cannot detect what happens to the muscles and nerves that are in this new position. Applied Kinesiology is a technique within the Chiropractic profession, developed and researched by a Chiropractor, Dr. George Goodheart, to provide us with methods of assessment and treatment that respond to the changing circumstances of the patient (that’s YOU!) in their own unique presentation. Your reaction to thoughts, emotions, feelings, foods, vitamins, homeopathic remedies, changes in position or motion can all be evaluated in the moment and solutions can be tailored to your individual needs.

Does the doctor work with Nutrition/Identify Food Allergies?

Yes, Dr. Hambrick uses both Applied Kinesiology and conventional, as well as cutting edge, laboratory testing to identify nutrient deficiencies and food, chemical and toxic sensitivities. He uses computerized analysis of blood tests to identify what nutrients are indicated to restore balance to your body chemistry so that the body can normalize and regain its health. Applied Kinesiology is used to tailor your specific program, ruling out supplements that are either ineffective for you or not well-tolerated by your unique chemical makeup.

Do you make dietary recommendations?

Yes, Dr. Hambrick works within your own parameters to improve your food choices and develop a way of eating that is effective and enjoyable. He has been trained in several different approaches to diet and makes every effort to provide you with suggestions and recommendations that fit your individual needs without forcing you into a “cookie cutter”, one size fits all program.

Can your practice replace my primary care physician? Can the doctor write out prescriptions?

No. Chiropractic in Florida does not currently allow its practitioners to write prescriptions. We are not licensed to do so. And, while we endeavor to assist you with every aspect of “wellness” care, we are not a substitute for competent and necessary medical care. We do not have hospital privileges and are not able to perform surgery or admit you to the hospital. We do like to work with your primary care physician in any way that is acceptable to all parties. Please do not forgo maintaining a relationship with your primary care practitioner so that you are able to manage any emergent medical condition and receive the proper care at the proper time. Dr. Hambrick likes to put it this way: “It is not my first order of priority to get my neck adjusted! I need to see an orthopedic specialist.”

How quickly can I expect to feel better?

Of course this varies with each individual. Dr. Hambrick does utilize many techniques to remove or relieve the immediate cause of pain and discomfort. However, it is an old adage in Chiropractic that “the absence of symptoms does not mean that the cause is gone.” Symptoms are usually the last thing to show up and the first thing to go away when the body is out of balance and disease is developing. Also, it depends on whether your complaint is primarily structurally, chemically or emotionally based and how severe it is. The likely outcomes are discussed with you after an examination is performed and the causes of your complaints are identified.

Do you require X-Rays?

X-rays are not required for treatment unless your condition clearly warrants it or you have been injured in a manner that suggests there may be a problem with the bones.

Records from my former (or present) doctor?

We prefer that you bring in all current records from your prior efforts to regain your health.

Your site says you perform acupuncture. Are you trained in TCM?

Dr. Hambrick is certified in acupuncture by the I.A.M.A. and is authorized under his Chiropractic licensure to perform acupuncture. His training does not include the full 2000 hours of Traditional Chinese Medicine that is undertaken in schools that lead to the Licensed Acupuncturist title.

Do you treat accident cases?

No, we do not treat automobile and other accident-related cases, and therefore do not accept PIP Personal Injury Insurance. At this time, our schedule is too full to give accident-related cases the time and attention they require to facilitate the best healing.

Do you take insurance?

Payment for all services will be processed at the time of the appointment. We are not in network with any insurance, so all services will be “out of network”. We will submit to Traditional Medicare for our patients, so you may receive payment directly form them, based on your contract. We do not file Medical Insurance reimbursements, but we will be happy to print the necessary paperwork for you to submit to your insurance company.

Do you work with Medicare?

Dr. Hambrick is a non-participating provider for Medicare. That means that you will pay for your services at the time they are rendered and we will submit your claim to Medicare. You may or may not receive any reimbursement. Medicare pays for one and only one service performed by Chiropractors – that is the spinal adjustment. They do not pay for or reimburse for ANY of the other services that are typically provided in our office, including exams and X-rays when ordered by our Chiropractic Physicians.

What is the frequency of treatment

This is dependent upon your condition. However, our usual frequency is once per week for the first 3 to 4 weeks and tapering off at that point if you have responded well. Injuries usually require more frequent treatment. We also offer packages of ancillary care such as Bio-Mat, dietary and nutritional guidance, electro-acupuncture, etc. that may be delivered on a more frequent schedule if you prefer.

What therapy do you provide to support the treatment the doctor gives?

Bio-Mat, Electro-acupuncture, guided imagery, light and sound, relaxation, acupuncture, heat and cold, nutritional support and advice, classes on diet and nutrition, Qi Gong classes, meditation classes are all provided through our office or our affiliation with the Sadana Center.

(727) 400-6969
2531 Landmark Dr. Building E, Unit 207
Clearwater, FL 33761