Frequently Asked Questions

Chiropractic care is a healthcare discipline focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those involving the spine. Chiropractors use hands-on spinal adjustments and other techniques to restore proper alignment, reduce pain, and support the body's natural ability to heal without drugs or surgery.

Treatment has risks as well as possible benefits. Soreness or a temporary increase in symptoms can occur; serious complications have also been reported. Dr. JC reviews your history and discusses the proposed technique, alternatives, and precautions before you decide.

We treat a number of musculoskeletal conditions including low back pain, neck pain, headaches and migraines, sciatica, shoulder pain, hip pain, sports injuries, auto accident injuries, and more. Visit our conditions page to see the full list of conditions we help patients with.

You can contact the office directly for an appointment. Your insurance plan may still require a referral or authorization for coverage, so check the policy before your visit.

The number of visits depends on your specific condition, how long you have had symptoms, and your treatment goals. Some patients find relief in just a few visits, while chronic conditions may require a longer care plan. Dr. JC will recommend a personalized treatment schedule after your initial evaluation.

Your first visit includes a thorough consultation where Dr. JC will review your health history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a physical examination. Based on this evaluation, he will explain his findings, recommend a treatment plan, and in most cases begin treatment during that same visit.

Your initial visit typically takes 45 to 60 minutes to allow time for a complete evaluation and your first treatment. Follow-up appointments are generally 15 to 30 minutes depending on the complexity of your care plan and the therapies involved.

Please bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card (if applicable), and any relevant medical records such as X-rays or MRI results. Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is also recommended so we can perform a thorough examination.

We see patients by appointment and do not take walk-ins. Same-day appointments are often available Monday through Thursday afternoons. Call (636) 393-8390 to confirm. An online request is not confirmed until the office contacts you.

A chiropractic adjustment is a precise, controlled movement applied to a spinal joint that has become restricted or misaligned. The goal is to restore proper joint function, reduce nerve irritation, and improve range of motion. You can learn more on our chiropractic adjustments page.

Shockwave therapy applies acoustic energy to a selected treatment area. It may be considered for some persistent tendon problems after an evaluation. Results and suitability vary. Read about our shockwave therapy services before requesting a consultation.

Graston Technique uses handheld instruments for soft tissue work. Dr. JC may discuss it alongside exercise or other care after the examination. Visit our Graston Technique page for details and limitations.

Active Muscle Release combines targeted pressure on a muscle with a comfortable movement. It may be considered as part of a plan for muscle-related pain or restricted movement. See our Active Muscle Release page to learn more.

An independent licensed massage therapist, Melody Topolewski, practices in the office. Massage appointments, fees, and policies are handled by her practice. Visit our massage therapy page for booking details.

The office works with BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare, as well as eligible injury claims. A carrier name alone does not establish coverage or network participation for your policy. Call (636) 393-8390 with your plan details.

Self-pay care is available. The cost depends on the services provided during your visit. Call (636) 393-8390 for current fees and an estimate before you decide.

The office works with Medicare. Medicare Part B covers manual spinal manipulation by a chiropractor to correct a subluxation when medically necessary, and does not cover other services or tests a chiropractor orders, such as X-rays or massage. See our Medicare page for details.

We can discuss care and documentation after an accident. MedPay benefits, liability claims, and attorney arrangements differ. Billing an insurer or working with an attorney does not guarantee payment or eliminate your responsibility.

We consider authorized workers' compensation cases. In Missouri, the employer or its insurer generally selects the treating provider. Confirm authorization before arranging nonemergency care you expect the claim to cover.

A child's muscle or joint concern starts with an examination and review of medical history. Infants with feeding, crying, or other health concerns should see their pediatrician first. We do not recommend routine adjustments simply because a child is growing. See our pediatric chiropractic page.

Suitability depends on the pregnancy, symptoms, and proposed treatment. Research is limited, and adapted positioning does not remove all risk. Discuss your care with your obstetric team. We do not promise changes to fetal position or delivery outcomes. See our pregnancy chiropractic page.

Yes. Sports chiropractic visits focus on the injury or movement concern, your activity demands, and a practical return-to-activity plan. Treatment does not guarantee faster recovery or prevent every injury. See our sports chiropractic page.

Some headaches involve neck pain or restricted movement; others need a different medical approach. An examination helps decide whether musculoskeletal care is reasonable. Sudden severe headaches or new neurological symptoms need urgent medical assessment. Read our headaches and migraines page.

Advanced Wellness Chiropractic is located at 11520 St. Charles Rock Rd, Suite 104, Bridgeton, MO 63044. We are conveniently situated near the intersection of St. Charles Rock Road and Fee Fee Road in Bridgeton, with easy access from Maryland Heights, Hazelwood, Florissant, and the greater St. Louis area.

Our office hours are Monday-Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM and Friday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. We are closed on weekends (Saturday-Sunday: Closed).

Call (636) 393-8390 or submit a preferred time through our scheduling page. The office will contact you to confirm. Call for morning or Friday appointments and before traveling for a same-day visit.

Same-day appointments are often available, but not guaranteed. Call (636) 393-8390 to confirm today's schedule. Severe or urgent medical symptoms should not wait for a chiropractic appointment.