Chiropractic care has many benefits and can improve your life and health tremendously. However, some might feel intimidated by the thought of going to a chiropractor because they are unsure of what to expect or how to prepare for their first chiropractic visit. This article outlines what a chiropractic visit is like and how you can get the most out of your visit.
What happens at your first chiropractic visit?
During your first chiropractic visit, the chiropractor may start with taking a detailed health history. This may include asking you about your symptoms, how long you have had them, any previous injuries or surgeries, previous treatment, and what you already know about the cause of your problem. He will also want to know if anyone in your family has any diseases, special concerns for pregnancy or back problems, and if there is anything else he should know.
Next, the chiropractor will do an examination that includes both observation and touch. The examiner watches how you walk and uses tests that measure muscle strength and flexibility in the low back and legs. He may also test reflexes. The chiropractor will also order x-rays or MRI scans if necessary to determine the cause of your problem. Chiropractors use these tests to determine what kind of chiropractic treatment options would best suit your needs. For more information, Spine Health has a great page on what happens at a chiropractic exam.
What should I do before seeing a chiropractor?
What should I research before seeing a chiropractor?
Doing proper research about the right chiropractor for you has benefited many before making your final choice. Delta Chiropractic Center of Lansing, a chiropractic office located in Lansing, MI, states that it is “hard to find a good chiropractor. Many people don’t know how to choose one and end up with an inexperienced doctor who doesn’t provide quality care.” In order to avoid that exact situation, start by looking for a chiropractor in your area, asking your primary care physician, or seeking referrals from friends and family for their preferred chiropractors. Once you have a few names, conduct background checks on each chiropractor candidate to find out which one would be the most appropriate for your needs. Searching their accreditation with your state’s board for their specialties, any potential discipline they might have received, and looking through their website should be enough to gain an idea of the quality of the provider.
What preparation do I need before my chiropractic visit?
There is no special preparation needed before seeing a chiropractor. Just wear comfortable clothing and make sure to bring your insurance card and identification. The chiropractor may need you to fill out paperwork if you are a new patient, especially if you are using insurance or have an injury as a result of work or an auto accident. Some offices provide new patient paperwork that you can fill out ahead of time online, which may save you waiting time at the office.
Do I need to do anything special after my chiropractic visit?
After your chiropractic visit, it is best to rest for the remainder of the day. You may experience some mild discomfort, but this will subside within a few days. Try not to do any strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting or running, and avoid sitting for long periods of time. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact your chiropractor.
How often should an adjustment be performed?
It varies depending on your condition and how you respond to treatment. Your chiropractor will likely advise you to come in for an adjustment every 1-4 weeks. However, this can vary depending on the severity of your problem and how well you are responding to treatment. One source sums it up well: “patients managed their pain using a variety of different visit frequencies” depending on their needs, stage of treatment, and preferences. The bottom line is, there is no one-size-fits-all chiropractic treatment plan. Your chiropractor will discuss your circumstances and determine with you what plan will work best for your needs.
Why should I see a chiropractor?
Chiropractic care is used to treat a wide range of problems, including neck and back pain, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches/migraines, sports injuries, and other types of musculoskeletal conditions. What chiropractors do varies depending on the problem being treated. They may perform spinal adjustments (manipulating your spine), prescribe massage therapy, or work with you to create an exercise or stretching program specifically for you. Your chiropractor will likely discuss specific foods that are good for your health as well. If you have any questions about what type of treatment will help you most, ask at your initial appointment so you know what to expect.
Benefits of seeing a chiropractor regularly
Regular chiropractic visits can help keep pain, discomfort, and stress away. They are also helpful for people who want to improve their health by following a lifestyle program (diet & exercise). What happens during chiropractic treatments will vary depending on the problem being treated. However, it has been shown that chiropractic treatment can improve many conditions, no matter what stage of life you are in. A study on patient experiences with chiropractic care found that 92% of participants had a reduction in their pain after regular chiropractic treatment. You might find that chiropractic care can make your life better too!
