Family Chiropractic Plus

Offering Excellent Chiropractic Healthcare In St. Petersburg, Florida.

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Family Chiropractic Plus

Family Chiropractic Plus is working diligently to be the very best St Petersburg Chiropractors so we are YOUR CHOICE for St. Petersburg chiropractic care!

Where Chiropractic Plus Began

St Petersburg Chiropractor, Dr. Martin Blankenship, DC, who has been practicing in England, Ireland, Australia and America for over 23 years, has returned to the US to provide St. Petersburg with the amazing chiropractic care that its residents deserve! His personal experience with the healing powers of chiropractic changed the course of his career, bringing a caring, thorough individual into this field.

The Chiro Plus Family

In addition to our doctors, the rest of our team is dedicated to helping you feel better, too! These great people will be responsible for administering your pre- and post-adjustment physiotherapy modalities in order to give you a deeper, more extensive adjustment and to reduce soreness or discomfort after your treatment.

More Than Just Pain Relief

Our goal is that you don’t simply get rid of back pain temporarily, but that you are able to achieve a higher level of health, well-being and overall happiness. To facilitate this goal, we employ all the tools in our repertoire, including full-body chiropractic adjustments, nutritional counseling, and multiple physical therapy strategies. Whether you have been in an automobile or workplace accident, or if you want to live a healthier, stronger life starting from the inside out, call Family Chiropractic Plus today. As a tribute to the men and women who so willingly serve and protect us at home and overseas, Family Chiropractic Plus offers a 15% discount on all services for first responders and active and retired military.

Dedicated to your good health

Family Chiropractic Plus is dedicated to your overall health and well-being. Which is why we offer manual chiropractic adjustments in order to restore your body’s natural state of optimal health, while also providing it with the support it needs to heal from any injury, big or small.

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Where It All Begins


At Family Chiropractic Plus in St. Petersburg, we are committed to nothing less than the best for our valued patients, which begins with a phenomenal staff!
Our goal is that you don’t simply get rid of back pain temporarily, but that you are able to achieve a higher level of health, well-being and overall happiness. To facilitate this goal, we employ all the tools in our repertoire, including full-body chiropractic adjustments, nutritional counseling, and multiple physical therapy strategies.
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Satisfied Patients


"Dr Martin has been the best Chiropractor I have found in Florida, he is not only skilled, but compassionate, caring and in tune with all your needs."
 Sandi M
The family-run practice for Family Chiropractic Plus is truly a stand-alone excellent practice. They don't just say they put their patient care first, they actually do. They have amazing integrity and are welcoming and friendly. I highly recommend Family Chiropractic Plus for your health needs!
 Dr. Cori
"Very pleased with how the doctor went above and beyond the norm to determine what was going with my body and how he explained to me what was needed to get better."
 Louise Baines

Ready To Relieve Symptoms and Reach a Higher Level of Body Performance?

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OUR BLOG


By Louise Blankenship June 25, 2025
For many, a visit to the chiropractor is a reactive decision. A sudden twinge in the lower back after lifting a heavy box, a persistent crick in the neck from a long week at the desk, or headaches that just won't quit. We often wait for pain to become the primary motivator for seeking care. But what if we shifted our perspective? What if, instead of just treating problems as they arise, we could actively prevent them from happening in the first place? This is the central idea behind a growing movement in healthcare: proactive wellness. And within this model, chiropractic care is emerging as a powerful cornerstone strategy for maintaining long-term health, not just alleviating immediate pain. It's about moving from a "pain-based" model to a "wellness-based" one, where the goal is to keep you functioning at your absolute best, day in and day out. Redefining the Role of Your Chiropractor The common perception of chiropractic care often revolves around the signature "adjustment" or "manipulation " that provides relief. While these spinal manipulations are a key technique, their purpose runs much deeper than a temporary fix. Your spine is the central highway for your nervous system, which controls and coordinates every single function in your body—from muscle movement to organ function. When vertebrae in the spine are misaligned (a condition known as a subluxation), they can interfere with this critical nerve communication. A proactive approach to chiropractic care focuses on identifying and correcting these minor misalignments before they lead to pain, dysfunction, or injury. Think of it like a dental check-up or routine car maintenance; you go regularly to prevent cavities and engine failure, not just when you have a toothache or your car breaks down. The Pillars of Preventative Chiropractic Care Leveraging chiropractic as a preventative tool can have a profound impact on your quality of life. Here are the keyways regular care helps you stay ahead of health issues: 1. Improving Posture and Combating "Tech Neck" In our modern world, we spend hours hunched over computers, craning our necks to look at smartphones, and slumping on couches. This chronic poor posture puts immense strain on the muscles and ligaments of the neck and spine, leading to the ubiquitous "tech neck," tension headaches, and upper back pain. Regular chiropractic adjustments help counteract these forces, realigning the spine and retraining your body to maintain better posture naturally. This reduces daily wear and tear, leaving you with more energy and less chronic discomfort. 2. Enhancing Athletic Performance Athletes at all levels, from weekend warriors to professionals, are increasingly turning to chiropractic care to gain a competitive edge. Optimal performance relies on flawless biomechanics. A properly aligned spine ensures that the nervous system is firing messages to muscles with maximum efficiency. This can lead to improved flexibility, greater power, a better range of motion, and enhanced balance and coordination. 3. Reducing the Risk of Injury Many injuries are not the result of a single event, but rather the culmination of minor, unaddressed imbalances. A slight misalignment in the pelvis can alter your gait, putting undue stress on a knee or ankle. A stiff mid-back can force the lower back and neck to overcompensate, making them vulnerable to sprains and strains. Proactive chiropractic care is like performing a regular systems check on your body's framework. By correcting these underlying imbalances, you create a more stable and resilient structure that is far less susceptible to injury during sports, work, or daily activities. Your Proactive Toolkit: Ergonomics for the Modern Workforce Your chiropractor is your partner in wellness, but a truly proactive approach includes how you manage your body between visits. Here are some essential ergonomic tips: • Optimize Your Desk: Position your monitor so the top of the screen is at or slightly below eye level. Your chair should allow your feet to rest flat on the floor with your knees at a 90-degree angle. Keep your keyboard and mouse close to avoid over-reaching. • Stand Up Straight: If you use a standing desk, ensure it's at a height where your elbows are bent at 90 degrees. Wear supportive shoes and consider an anti-fatigue mat. • Mind Your Mobile: Instead of looking down at your phone, consciously lift it closer to eye level. • Commute Comfortably: Adjust your car seat to support your lower back's natural curve and ensure you aren't straining to reach the pedals or steering wheel. Lifestyle Tips for a Resilient Spine Beyond the office, simple daily habits can make all the difference: • Move Every 30: Set a reminder to get up, stretch, and walk around for a few minutes every half hour. • Hydrate for Your Discs: The gelatinous discs between your vertebrae are mostly water. Staying well-hydrated keeps them healthy and pliable. • Sleep Smart: Sleep on your back or side, not your stomach. Use a supportive pillow that keeps your head in a neutral position with your spine. • Lift with Your Legs: When lifting anything, bend at your knees and hips, keeping your back straight and engaging your core muscles. Take the Driver's Seat of Your Wellness Becoming a proactive patient means seeing your health as your greatest asset. It's an investment in a future with more mobility, less pain, and a higher capacity to enjoy the activities you love. Chiropractic care is not just a solution for back pain; it is a vital tool for building and maintaining a foundation of optimal wellness. If you're ready to shift from simply reacting to pain to proactively building a healthier life, consider consulting with a chiropractor. A conversation about your health goals can be the first step toward creating a personalized, preventative care plan that will serve you for years to come. We're here to support you every step of the way. Follow the link to make an appointment today https://www.familychiroplus.com/start or call and chat to our friendly staff.
By Louise Blankenship May 21, 2025
If you're one of the approximately 20 million Americans living with neuropathy each year, you know firsthand how its debilitating symptoms can deeply affect your quality of life. This neurological condition, where damage to your peripheral nervous system causes a range of uncomfortable and often distressing sensations, can stem from various underlying health issues. While conventional medicine often turns to medication to manage symptoms, many people like you are seeking and finding real benefits with chiropractic care to address the root causes of neuropathic pain and discomfort. Your peripheral nervous system is vital, acting as the communication network between your brain and spinal cord (your central nervous system) and the rest of your body. When these crucial pathways are damaged or disrupted, you might experience tingling, numbness, burning, and weaknesses that are hallmarks of neuropathy. We understand that finding effective, lasting relief becomes a top priority, especially since these symptoms can worsen if not properly addressed. At Family Chiropractic Plus, we believe in a holistic and personal approach to managing your neuropathy. We focus on empowering your body's natural healing capabilities. Instead of just masking symptoms, our goal is to identify and address the potential underlying causes of your nerve dysfunction. This comprehensive strategy often includes gentle spinal adjustments, targeted therapeutic techniques, and supportive lifestyle recommendations, all designed to help improve your overall nervous system function and bring you comfort. How Our Chiropractic Care Addresses Your Neuropathy Our approach to your neuropathy is fundamentally different. We look beyond just the symptoms to understand how issues like spinal misalignments or other musculoskeletal problems might be contributing to nerve compression, inflammation, and dysfunction. This whole-body perspective aims to improve your nervous system's health by addressing the structural factors that could be irritating your nerves. A central part of our care involves gently restoring proper alignment to your spine and other joints. When vertebrae are out of place, they can put pressure on the delicate nerve roots exiting your spinal column. This pressure can interfere with normal nerve signals, leading to or worsening your neuropathic symptoms. Through precise, careful adjustments, we work to correct these misalignments, aiming to relieve that nerve compression and improve communication along your nerves. But our care for your neuropathy doesn't stop at spinal adjustments. We often incorporate other supportive therapies tailored to your needs. These might include specialized massage techniques to boost circulation to the affected areas, ultrasound therapy to help reduce inflammation, or gentle electrical stimulation to help manage pain and potentially encourage nerve function. What You Can Expect on Your Journey to Neuropathy Relief with Us Your journey with us will typically start with a comprehensive, unhurried initial consultation. This is our chance to truly listen and understand your experience – your symptoms, your medical history, and any treatments you've tried. We'll then conduct a thorough physical examination, which may include neurological tests, checking your range of motion, and gently assessing the affected areas. If needed, we might discuss imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs to get a clearer picture, especially if we suspect issues like disc herniation. Based on this complete understanding, we'll develop an individualized care plan specifically for you, focusing on your unique needs and what you hope to achieve. This plan will outline the recommended frequency of your visits, the types of adjustments and therapies we believe will help you most, and an idea of the timeline for improvement. We often begin with more frequent visits during an initial period of intensive care, then, as your symptoms improve, we'll gradually transition to less frequent maintenance care to help you sustain your progress. We promise to provide clear information about what your care will involve and what results you can reasonably expect. During your visits, you'll receive care tailored to your specific condition. Gentle spinal adjustments are usually at the heart of your treatment, where we apply precise, controlled force to specific vertebrae to help restore their proper alignment. These adjustments might be complemented by soft tissue therapies, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or other methods chosen to reduce inflammation and support your nerve healing. We also believe in empowering you, so many of our chiropractors will guide you through specific stretches and strengthening exercises you can do at home to enhance your progress. Your active participation is key! Home care recommendations are an important part of our comprehensive approach to your neuropathy. We'll provide guidance on activities or positions to be mindful of, as well as exercises or stretches for you to do regularly. We might also discuss nutritional advice, stress management techniques, or ergonomic tips to support your overall nervous system health. By working together between your office visits, we believe you can accelerate your progress and achieve more lasting improvements in your neuropathic symptoms. We're here to support you every step of the way. Follow the link to make an appointment today https://www.familychiroplus.com/start or call and chat to our friendly staff.
By Louise Blankenship May 1, 2025
How Chiropractic Care Can Help You Avoid Surgical Intervention Each year, more than 500,000 Americans undergo back surgery, a statistic that highlights the prevalence of spinal issues in our society. While surgical intervention is sometimes necessary, many patients are discovering that alternative approaches can effectively address their pain without the risks and recovery time associated with operations. Chiropractic treatment stands at the forefront of these non-invasive options, offering hope to those suffering from chronic discomfort and limited mobility. For individuals experiencing persistent neck or back pain following accidents, injuries, or due to degenerative conditions, exploring conservative treatment methods before committing to surgery makes practical sense. Chiropractic care focuses on natural healing processes, addressing the root causes of discomfort rather than merely masking symptoms. This approach not only provides relief but may also eliminate the need for surgical procedures altogether. Research increasingly supports the effectiveness of chiropractic interventions in preventing surgical outcomes. A notable study examining approximately 1,900 workers with back injuries over three years revealed striking results: among those who initially consulted surgeons, 42% eventually underwent operations, while only 1.5% of those who sought chiropractic treatment required surgery. These findings underscore the potential of chiropractic care as a viable alternative to invasive procedures. Whether you're dealing with acute pain from a recent injury or managing a chronic condition, understanding how chiropractic treatment can help prevent surgery empowers you to make informed decisions about your health journey. Let's explore the specific ways chiropractors address common issues that might otherwise lead to the operating room. Addressing Neck Pain Through Chiropractic Methods Neck discomfort represents one of the most common complaints bringing patients to chiropractic offices. This pain often stems from spinal misalignments or dysfunction that extends beyond the neck itself. Professional chiropractors recognize that cervical issues frequently connect to problems in other regions of the spine, creating a complex pattern of discomfort that requires comprehensive assessment. During initial consultations, chiropractors conduct thorough examinations to identify the underlying causes of neck pain. This diagnostic process involves evaluating posture, range of motion, spinal alignment, and sometimes imaging studies to develop a complete picture of the patient's condition. By understanding the root causes rather than focusing solely on symptoms, practitioners can develop targeted treatment strategies that address fundamental issues. Chiropractic approaches to neck pain typically incorporate various techniques tailored to individual needs. These may include gentle spinal adjustments to restore proper alignment, manual therapy to address soft tissue restrictions, and therapeutic exercises to strengthen supporting muscles. This multifaceted approach helps relieve pressure on nerves, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility without resorting to surgical intervention. Conditions responsive to chiropractic care include cervical disc injuries that don't require immediate surgery, whiplash resulting from auto accidents, facet joint sprains, and degenerative conditions affecting the neck vertebrae. Even patients who have been told surgery might be necessary often experience significant improvement through consistent chiropractic treatment, allowing them to avoid operations and their associated risks. Halting Spinal Degeneration Before Surgery Becomes Necessary The progressive nature of spinal degeneration makes early intervention crucial for preventing surgical outcomes. As individuals age, natural wear and tear affects spinal structures, potentially leading to bone spurs, decreased disc height, and compromised function. Without proper management, these changes can accelerate, eventually reaching a point where surgical intervention seems inevitable. Regular chiropractic maintenance plays a vital role in slowing this degenerative process. Through periodic adjustments, chiropractors help maintain optimal spinal alignment, reducing uneven pressure on vertebral discs and facet joints. This balanced distribution of forces allows tissues to function properly and receive adequate nutrition, supporting the body's natural healing mechanisms. Chiropractic care addresses several factors contributing to spinal degeneration. By improving joint mobility, treatments prevent prolonged compression that accelerates disc deterioration. Enhanced blood circulation delivers essential nutrients to spinal tissues while removing inflammatory waste products. Additionally, proper alignment reduces stress on supporting ligaments and muscles, creating an environment conducive to tissue health rather than breakdown. For patients already experiencing early signs of degeneration, such as occasional stiffness or minor pain, chiropractic intervention can be particularly valuable. These individuals often respond well to conservative care, experiencing improved function and reduced discomfort without resorting to surgical procedures. Even those with more advanced degeneration frequently benefit from chiropractic treatment as part of a comprehensive management approach. Treating Back Injuries Without Surgical Intervention Back injuries represent a leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. Whether resulting from sudden trauma like falls or accidents, or developing gradually through repetitive strain, these injuries can severely impact quality of life. Many sufferers initially believe surgery represents their only hope for relief, unaware that chiropractic care offers effective alternatives. Chiropractors approach back injuries with a focus on comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment planning. The evaluation process identifies specific tissues involved, movement patterns affected, and contributing factors that might impede recovery. This detailed understanding allows practitioners to develop targeted interventions addressing the unique aspects of each patient's condition rather than applying generic solutions. Treatment protocols for back injuries typically combine several therapeutic approaches. Spinal adjustments restore proper alignment and movement patterns, reducing pressure on injured tissues. Spinal decompression techniques gently stretch the spine, creating negative pressure that allows herniated or bulging discs to retract. Soft tissue therapies address muscle imbalances and trigger points that contribute to pain and dysfunction. This integrated approach promotes natural healing without surgical risks. The effectiveness of chiropractic care for back injuries extends beyond immediate pain relief to address long-term function and prevention. By correcting biomechanical issues contributing to the original injury, treatments reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Patients also receive education about proper body mechanics, ergonomics, and exercises to support ongoing spinal health, empowering them to participate actively in their recovery process. Research Supporting Chiropractic as a Surgery Alternative Scientific evidence increasingly validates chiropractic care as an effective approach for preventing surgical interventions. Multiple studies demonstrate significant benefits for patients who choose conservative treatment before considering operations, particularly for common spinal conditions that frequently lead to surgery. The previously mentioned research examining workers with back injuries provides compelling evidence of chiropractic effectiveness. The dramatic difference in surgical rates—42% for those initially seeing surgeons versus just 1.5% for those consulting chiropractors—suggests that treatment approach significantly influences patient outcomes. This study, published in the respected journal Spine, represents just one example of growing research supporting non-surgical alternatives. Additional studies have examined specific conditions commonly leading to surgery. Research on lumbar disc herniations, for instance, has shown that many patients achieve substantial improvement through chiropractic care despite initially being considered surgical candidates. Similarly, investigations of spinal stenosis patients have demonstrated that conservative management often provides sufficient relief to avoid operations, even in cases with significant neurological symptoms. Cost-effectiveness analyses further support chiropractic care as a prudent first approach. When comparing overall healthcare expenditures, patients who begin with conservative treatments typically incur lower total costs, even accounting for cases that eventually require surgery. This economic advantage, combined with reduced risks and recovery time, makes chiropractic intervention an attractive option for both patients and healthcare systems seeking optimal outcomes. Comprehensive Chiropractic Approaches to Prevent Surgery Modern chiropractic care encompasses far more than the spinal adjustments commonly associated with the profession. Today's practitioners utilize diverse techniques and technologies to address complex conditions that might otherwise lead to surgical intervention, creating truly comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Spinal manipulation remains a cornerstone of chiropractic practice, with various techniques available depending on patient needs. From gentle, low-force methods appropriate for seniors or acute conditions to more dynamic approaches for younger, athletic individuals, adjustments are customized to provide optimal benefits while ensuring patient comfort. These manipulations restore proper joint function, reduce nerve irritation, and promote natural healing processes. Beyond adjustments, chiropractors incorporate numerous complementary therapies to enhance outcomes. Therapeutic exercises strengthen supporting muscles and improve movement patterns. Soft tissue techniques address muscle imbalances and adhesions that contribute to pain. Modalities like therapeutic ultrasound and electrical stimulation reduce inflammation and accelerate tissue repair. Spinal decompression systems provide gentle stretching for disc-related conditions. This multimodal approach addresses all aspects of spinal dysfunction. Patient education represents another crucial component of comprehensive chiropractic care. By helping individuals understand their conditions and teaching self-management strategies, practitioners empower patients to participate actively in their recovery. This educational aspect extends to ergonomic recommendations, lifestyle modifications, and preventive measures that support long-term spinal health and reduce the likelihood of future problems requiring surgical intervention. Conclusion: Choosing the Conservative Path When facing spinal pain or dysfunction, exploring non-surgical options before committing to operations makes practical sense. Chiropractic care offers a conservative, evidence-supported approach that addresses the root causes of many common conditions while avoiding the risks, recovery time, and expenses associated with surgical procedures. The growing body of research supporting chiropractic effectiveness provides reassurance for those considering this path. From preventing spinal degeneration to treating acute injuries and managing chronic conditions, chiropractic interventions have demonstrated significant benefits across diverse patient populations. The dramatic difference in surgical rates between those who begin with chiropractic care versus those who initially consult surgeons speaks volumes about the potential for conservative management. For individuals experiencing neck pain, back discomfort, or reduced mobility, consulting with a qualified chiropractor represents a logical first step. Through comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment planning, these practitioners can determine whether your condition might respond to conservative care or truly require surgical intervention. In many cases, patients discover that chiropractic treatment provides the relief they seek without operations. Remember that choosing chiropractic care doesn't mean permanently ruling out surgery if truly necessary. Rather, it represents a prudent approach that explores less invasive options first, potentially saving you from unnecessary procedures while addressing your pain and dysfunction effectively. With proper chiropractic care, many patients find themselves on the path to recovery without ever needing to enter an operating room. Ready for exceptional chiropractic care? Contact Family Chiropractic Plus today at www.familychiroplus.com . Our dedicated team is committed to restoring your body's natural state of health and well-being through regular adjustments, offering comprehensive care to promote healing and support your overall health.
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