Patient Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions about chiropractic care, BrainTap, Cranial Facial Release, and everything we offer at Lankering Chiropractic & Brain Wellness.

What is chiropractic care?: Chiropractic care is a health discipline focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques, primarily spinal adjustments and manipulations, to improve alignment and function. When vertebrae become misaligned (a condition called subluxation), they can interfere with nerve function, causing pain and reduced mobility. Through adjustments, we restore proper alignment, reduce nerve interference, and promote the body’s natural healing ability. Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to health and wellness.
Is chiropractic treatment safe?: Yes, chiropractic treatment is very safe when performed by a licensed, trained professional. Chiropractors undergo extensive education and must meet rigorous licensing requirements to practice. Serious complications from chiropractic adjustments are extremely rare. Some patients may experience mild soreness or stiffness after their first adjustment, similar to starting a new exercise program, but this typically resolves within 24-48 hours. Dr. Tom Lankering conducts a thorough evaluation before any treatment to ensure chiropractic care is appropriate for your specific condition. If you have any concerns, we encourage you to discuss them during your consultation.
How long does a first visit take?: Your first visit typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. We dedicate this time to getting to know you and understanding your health history, current concerns, and wellness goals. During this appointment, we’ll conduct a comprehensive physical and neurological examination, discuss your symptoms and any injuries, review your medical history, and perform necessary diagnostic tests or imaging if needed. We’ll explain our findings and develop a personalized care plan tailored to your specific needs. Subsequent visits are usually 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the treatments and technologies involved in your care plan.
How many visits will I need?: The number of visits varies significantly depending on your specific condition, health history, and treatment goals. Some acute conditions may resolve in just a few visits, while chronic issues or structural problems may require ongoing care. During your first appointment, Dr. Tom will provide a realistic estimate based on his examination findings. Our goal is to get you feeling better as quickly as possible while creating lasting results. We emphasize both acute treatment and maintenance care to prevent future problems. We’ll work with you to establish a treatment schedule that fits your needs and budget.
How does payment work?: We are a cash-pay practice and do not bill insurance directly. We accept all major credit cards, HSA and FSA accounts, and cash. This keeps things simple and transparent — you always know exactly what to expect. Call us at (970) 927-9900 before your first visit to discuss fees.
What is BrainTap and how does it work?: BrainTap is an advanced neurological therapy system that uses a combination of light frequency and audio technology to optimize brain performance and promote relaxation. The system uses specialized light glasses that deliver specific wavelengths of light while you listen to relaxing audio sessions. This dual-stimulation approach helps guide your brainwaves into alpha and theta states, which are associated with deep relaxation, stress relief, mental clarity, and improved sleep. BrainTap is particularly effective for stress management, anxiety reduction, focus and concentration, sleep quality improvement, and overall wellness. Sessions typically last 20 minutes and are completely non-invasive. Many patients report feeling more relaxed and mentally clear after just one session.
What is Cranial Facial Release?: Cranial Facial Release (CFR) is a specialized technique that uses controlled air pressure to realign the bones of the skull and face. This technique is particularly effective for patients with chronic headaches, migraines, sinus issues, TMJ dysfunction, and facial pain. The therapy works on the principle that misalignments in the cranial bones can restrict nerve function and blood flow. By using precise, controlled air pulses, we gently mobilize these bones back to their proper position. CFR is non-invasive, safe, and many patients experience significant relief from chronic headaches and sinus problems. The treatment is quick, typically taking 15-20 minutes, and results often improve with multiple sessions.
What conditions do you treat?: We treat a wide range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, including: back pain, neck pain, headaches and migraines, shoulder pain, whiplash injuries, sports injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, arthritis, postural problems, fibromyalgia, stress and anxiety, sleep disorders, and more. We also focus on brain wellness and neurological health through our advanced technologies. Our comprehensive approach means we don’t just treat symptoms; we address the underlying causes of pain and dysfunction. During your consultation, Dr. Tom will discuss whether chiropractic care and our specialized therapies are appropriate for your specific condition.
Do I need a referral?: No, you do not need a referral from another physician to see a chiropractor. In Colorado, chiropractors are licensed primary care providers, meaning you can schedule an appointment directly without going through your medical doctor first. You can contact our office and schedule your first appointment at your convenience. If you do have a referral from your physician, we’re happy to accept it and can communicate with your doctor about your care if you wish.
What should I wear to my appointment?: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy movement and access to the affected areas. For example, if you’re seeking care for back pain, wear something that allows us to access your back easily. Shorts or sweatpants and a t-shirt work well for most appointments. Avoid wearing heavy belts, tight clothing, or jewelry that might restrict movement. We may ask you to change into a gown for certain examinations or treatments, and we provide private facilities for doing so. Most importantly, just come as you are and focus on getting the care you need.
What is peptide therapy?: Peptide therapy is an advanced wellness approach that uses bioidentical peptides to optimize cellular function and promote healing. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body, instructing cells to perform specific functions. These peptides support everything from immune function and inflammation reduction to tissue repair, muscle development, cognitive function, and overall vitality. Peptide therapy is customized based on your specific health goals and laboratory results. It can be particularly beneficial for athletic recovery, chronic pain management, cognitive enhancement, immune support, and age-related wellness concerns. This is an advanced therapy that Dr. Tom offers to select patients who can benefit most from this approach.
What is invisa-RED technology?: invisa-RED is a form of photobiomodulation therapy that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to accelerate healing and reduce pain. The light penetrates deep into tissues, stimulating cellular energy production and reducing inflammation at the cellular level. This technology is highly effective for acute and chronic pain, muscle recovery, wound healing, skin health, and overall tissue regeneration. The therapy is completely non-invasive, painless, and has no side effects. Sessions typically last 15-20 minutes. invisa-RED can be used alone or combined with chiropractic adjustments and other therapies for enhanced results.
Can children receive chiropractic care?: Yes, children can benefit greatly from chiropractic care. Proper spinal alignment is crucial for children’s healthy development, athletic performance, and overall wellness. Common reasons parents bring children to our office include ear infections, colic, bedwetting, posture problems, sports injuries, and headaches. Dr. Tom uses age-appropriate, gentle adjustment techniques tailored specifically for children. Pediatric chiropractic care is safe and effective, promoting proper development and preventing future health issues. We recommend an initial evaluation to assess whether chiropractic care would benefit your child and to discuss any specific concerns you have.
How do I get started?: Getting started is simple. Call our office at (970) 927-9900 during business hours (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM) to schedule your first appointment. Your first visit is a Consultation & Evaluation — Dr. Tom will get to know you, your health history, and your goals, then conduct a thorough examination. Your second visit is the Report of Findings, where he shares what he found and discusses your care options. Treatment begins at that second visit. Just come as you are — no records, no forms to gather beforehand. We look forward to meeting you.

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