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Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions
What conditions does chiropractic care help with?

Chiropractic care is commonly used to treat back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, joint pain, and injuries from work, sports, or auto accidents. At Sunset Chiropractic, we focus on identifying the root cause of your discomfort and creating a plan to improve mobility, reduce pain, and support long-term health.

What should I expect on my first visit?

Your first visit includes a consultation, evaluation, and a discussion about your symptoms and health history. Dr. Brooks will determine the best course of care and explain your treatment options clearly before beginning any adjustments.

Do chiropractic adjustments hurt?

Most patients experience little to no discomfort during an adjustment. In many cases, patients feel immediate relief and improved mobility. Some may feel mild soreness afterward, similar to starting a new exercise routine, but it typically resolves quickly.

How many visits will I need?

Every patient is different. Some people find relief in just a few visits, while others with chronic or long-term issues may benefit from a longer treatment plan. Our goal is to provide the right level of care without unnecessary visits.

Do you accept insurance?

Sunset Chiropractic works with many insurance plans. Coverage can vary, so we recommend contacting the office to verify your benefits and understand what services are included.

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?

No referral is needed to visit Sunset Chiropractic. You can schedule an appointment directly and begin care without going through another provider first.

Is chiropractic care safe?

Chiropractic care is widely recognized as a safe, non-invasive treatment option for musculoskeletal issues. Dr. Brooks uses proven techniques and evaluates each patient carefully to ensure the right approach is used.

Can chiropractic care help with headaches?

Yes, many headaches are related to tension, posture, or spinal alignment. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches by addressing underlying causes.

Do you treat auto accident or work injuries?

Yes, Sunset Chiropractic treats patients recovering from auto accidents and work-related injuries. Early care can help reduce pain, improve healing, and prevent long-term issues.

Do you offer ongoing wellness care?

Yes, many patients choose to continue with maintenance care after their initial treatment to stay aligned, reduce stress on the body, and prevent future problems.

D.O.T. Physicals
What is a D.O.T. medical exam?

A D.O.T. physical is a standardized medical exam that evaluates whether a driver is healthy enough to safely operate a commercial vehicle. The exam must be performed by a provider listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

What does the exam include?

The exam checks overall health and focuses on conditions that could affect driving ability, including:

  • Vision and hearing
  • Blood pressure and heart health
  • Neurological function
  • Musculoskeletal health (important for chiropractors)
  • Medications and medical history

A urine test is also required, but it is not a drug test — it screens for underlying health issues like diabetes.

How long is a D.O.T. medical card valid?

 

  • Typically up to 24 months
  • May be shorter (3, 6, or 12 months) if the driver has conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes that need monitoring

 

Who needs a D.O.T. medical card?

Drivers operating commercial vehicles across state lines generally need one if they:

  • Hold a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License)
  • Drive vehicles over 10,000 lbs
  • Transport hazardous materials
  • Carry passengers

Texas also requires many intrastate drivers to maintain a valid medical card.

Can a chiropractor perform D.O.T. physicals?

Yes — if certified. A chiropractor can perform D.O.T. exams only if they are registered with the FMCSA National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.

What can disqualify a driver?

Common issues that may delay or limit certification include:

  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Poor vision (not correctable)
  • Certain heart conditions
  • Untreated sleep apnea
  • Use of disqualifying medications

Many of these don’t permanently disqualify a driver — they just require management.

Why offer D.O.T. physicals at a chiropractic office?

It’s a strong local service because:

  • Fits working-class / oilfield / trucking demographic in San Angelo
  • Quick, affordable exams
  • Opportunity to build long-term patients from drivers with back/neck issues