A chiropractor is a licensed healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions — particularly those involving the spine, joints, and nervous system — without the use of drugs or surgery. Chiropractors complete a four-year Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree following an undergraduate degree, and must pass national board examinations to practice. Treatment typically centers on spinal adjustments, manual therapy, and rehabilitative care to restore alignment, reduce pain, and improve function.
*Oxford dictionary definition
chiropractor (as defined in Merriam-Webster): a licensed health-care professional who treats disorders (such as back and neck pain) chiefly of the musculoskeletal system especially through the manual adjustment or manipulation of the spinal vertebrae to correct nervous system dysfunction.
A dictionary definition for a chiropractor only touches the surface. Let’s take a deeper look at what a chiropractor is and what they do.
What is a chiropractor?
A chiropractor is a trained care provider who focuses on healing using the spine and its connection to the body’s nervous system. Unlike conventional medical doctors, a chiropractor will not use drugs or surgery to treat issues. Instead, a chiropractor’s goal is to optimize the health of the whole human system in a non-invasive way. Essentially a chiropractor works to keep the body’s lines of communication open so that it can heal itself.
Chiropractors receive their license to practice after completing a Doctor of Chiropractic and passing the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners examinations. Chiropractors may train in different approaches to chiropractic care, but these are all doctoral programs focused on anatomy and physiology. A Doctor of Chiropractic generally takes 3-4 years after a B.S. degree.
What Does a Chiropractor Treat?
Chiropractors treat a wide range of conditions affecting the spine, joints, muscles, and nerves. The most common include:
- Back pain (acute and chronic)
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Sciatica and radiating leg pain
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Headaches and migraines
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Whiplash from auto accidents
- Plantar fasciitis and tendon conditions
- Sports injuries and repetitive strain
Treatment is non-surgical and drug-free, making chiropractic care a first-line option for patients who want to address the root cause of their pain rather than manage symptoms with medication.
What Techniques Do Chiropractors Use?
Chiropractors use a variety of evidence-based techniques depending on the patient’s condition, age, and health history. At Lake Mary Chiropractic Center, Dr. Paul Toma, DC specializes in Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP) — a research-based technique focused on correcting spinal alignment and posture rather than providing temporary relief alone.
Common chiropractic techniques include:
- Spinal adjustments — precise, controlled movements to correct vertebral misalignment and restore joint function
- Spinal decompression therapy — non-surgical traction-based treatment for herniated discs, sciatica, and nerve compression
- Soft tissue therapy — manual techniques targeting muscles and connective tissue to reduce tension and support recovery
- Rehabilitative exercises — prescribed movements to strengthen supporting muscles and maintain alignment between visits
- Shockwave therapy — acoustic wave treatment for chronic tendon conditions, plantar fasciitis, and soft tissue injuries that haven’t responded to other care
Many chiropractic practices, including Lake Mary Chiropractic Center, also integrate massage therapy, physical therapy, and assisted stretching under one roof to support comprehensive recovery.
What Is the Difference Between a Chiropractor and a Medical Doctor?
Medical doctors (MDs) and chiropractors both diagnose and treat conditions, but their approaches differ significantly. MDs typically manage conditions through medication, specialist referrals, and surgery when appropriate. Chiropractors focus on restoring function through manual and physical therapies without pharmaceutical intervention.
The two approaches are not mutually exclusive. Many patients receive chiropractic care alongside medical treatment, and at Lake Mary Chiropractic Center, our team regularly coordinates with patients’ primary care physicians and specialists to ensure integrated, safe care.
What Should I Expect at My First Chiropractic Visit?
Your first visit to Lake Mary Chiropractic Center begins with a thorough health history and physical evaluation. Dr. Toma or one of our chiropractors will assess your posture, spinal alignment, range of motion, and neurological function before recommending any treatment. You will not receive care before your provider understands your condition and goals.
Most new patients receive their first treatment on the same day as the evaluation. No referral is required, and most major insurance plans are accepted.
About Dr. Paul Toma, DC — Lake Mary Chiropractor Since 2000
Dr. Paul Toma founded Lake Mary Chiropractic Center in May 2000 after earning his Doctor of Chiropractic degree cum laude from Life University in Marietta, Georgia, and his Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from Florida State University. Dr. Toma completed advanced post-graduate training in Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP), a technique focused on spinal and postural correction, and is certified by the Spinal Research Institute of San Diego in cervical spine injuries related to auto accidents.
In over 25 years of practice, Dr. Toma has served patients across Lake Mary, Heathrow, Sanford, Longwood, and Seminole County. He is a member of the Florida Chiropractic Association and the Seminole County Lake Mary Regional Chamber of Commerce, and has contributed to community education through school programs, corporate wellness talks, and local philanthropy.
Lake Mary Chiropractic Center also includes Dr. Monica Kim, DC (Palmer College of Chiropractic Florida, 2008) and Dr. Desireé Ramos-Martínez, DC, providing patients with access to multiple experienced providers under one roof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor in Lake Mary?
No referral is required. You can contact Lake Mary Chiropractic Center directly at 407-302-5161 to schedule a new patient appointment. Same-week availability is typically offered.
How long does a chiropractic appointment take?
Initial evaluations typically take 45 to 60 minutes. Follow-up treatment visits are generally 20 to 30 minutes depending on the services included in your care plan.
Does chiropractic care hurt?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during chiropractic adjustments. Some soreness similar to what you might feel after exercise is normal in the first day or two following treatment, particularly for new patients.
Is chiropractic care covered by insurance?
Yes. Lake Mary Chiropractic Center accepts most major insurance plans. Call our office to verify your coverage before your first visit.
Can a chiropractor treat me if I’ve already had back surgery?
In many cases, yes — though it depends on the type of surgery and your current condition. Dr. Toma will review your surgical history during your evaluation and recommend only the therapies appropriate for your situation.
Ready to See a Chiropractor in Lake Mary?
Lake Mary Chiropractic Center has provided drug-free, non-surgical care to patients
in Lake Mary, Heathrow, Sanford, and Seminole County since 2000. Led by Dr. Paul
Toma, DC, our team offers chiropractic care, spinal decompression, shockwave therapy,
physical therapy, massage, and assisted stretching under one roof.
No referral needed. Most insurance accepted.
📞 Call 407-302-5161
📍 3240 W Lake Mary Blvd, Suite 1300, Lake Mary, FL 32746
Schedule an Appointment
