There are 4 stages of chiropractic care.  The first, relief phase is the reason why most patients come in the first place, that is relief from pain.  I will explain how you can prevent pain and other symptoms from reoccuring, become chronic long term, or permanent damage. In Relief phase of care, pain or symptoms most intense either acute or chronic, a reduction of symptoms and inflammation. Second phase, Corrective care, symptoms gone or much improved, an increase function and mobility, feeling better, and maximum correction is obtain.  The third phase, Strengtening care, an increase of energy and function, increase strength and mobility, muscles and ligaments strengthen.  The fourth phase, Wellness or Maintenance, after achieving maximum correction, optimal health achieved, and maintaining wellness activites.  Maintenance prevents relapse, and starting all over with relief phase.  Most people think to stop treatments after symptoms are gone, but symptoms may reappear again, or more damage may occur.  Relief phase only takes care of the symptoms short term, not the cause of the symptoms long term, which is more permanent, and long lasting.  When the spine has a misalignment or subluxation, this causes nerve interference, blocks communication between the brain and body,  a malfunction of the body immediately begins to compensate, pain or other symptoms may not be present, malfunction worsens or disease process, the body has 60% loss of function, then symptoms appear last. Symptoms are signals that something is wrong, and needs to be addressed. Like other preventative care, dentistry or medical screenings, chiropractic is a Wellness lifestyle to prevent degeneration of the spine and nervous system, helping you achieve optimal health, and before symptoms reappear. My name is Dr. Maria E. Manibog, DC and I have been in practice over 14 years, Health For Life Chiropractic. My goal is to help everyone understand what is chiropractic, and what benefits you will gain by following through a Maintenance care plan. The choice is up to you !!! Come in for a Complimentary Health Consultation to find out if we can help you.  We are located in downtown San Leandro, CA at 369 Juana Avenue. Please call at (510) 357-1351 or visit www.sanleandrochiropractor.com