Chiropractors are doctors who receive education and training to assess, diagnose and treat all joints of the body including the spine as well as the associated muscles and nerves. Chiropractic care consists of a number of different treatment methods that all work towards improving the natural movement of the joints in the body. This is done by relieving muscle tension and restoring normal nerve function. When the joint is unable to move correctly it can cause the muscles around it to spasm. This affects the nerves in the area and causes pain. Chiropractors restore the natural movement of the joint. This helps the muscles in the area to relax and returns to the normal pain-free functioning of the joint.
Your First Visit
On your first chiropractor visit to the clinic, you will be asked to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. This is to fill out the necessary paperwork for new patients. Once the paperwork is completed the chiropractor will greet you in the waiting room and take you into the chiropractic treatment room. Initial chiropractic treatments begin with a thorough history in which you will be asked about your current symptoms and previous medical history. It is critical to provide the chiropractor with your detailed medical history so they can assess all probable causes of your symptoms.
Upon completion of the history, the chiropractor will conduct a physical examination to diagnose the cause of your symptoms. The diagnosis will be discussed with the patient as well as any differential diagnoses the chiropractor may consider. The chiropractor will then discuss the treatment options available as well as the potential risks involved with each. Once a treatment plan is agreed upon, a consent form will be agreed upon and signed before the chiropractor begins the actual treatment.
It is encouraged that you ask any and all questions you may have before, during or even after the treatment. Once the treatment is completed you will be advised of what to do at home. This is whether it’s ice, heat, compression, rest or stretching or when to book your next appointment. To get the optimal results from your treatment it is recommended that you follow the treatment plan and at-home care instructions given to you by the chiropractor.
After Treatment
After chiropractic treatment, the patient usually experiences decreased pain, increased range of motion, improved posture and improved performance in daily activities. Some of the conditions chiropractors are able to treat include but are not limited to acute and chronic conditions of neck pain, upper back pain, low back pain, sciatic nerve pain, muscle strains, ligament sprains, muscle trigger points, carpal tunnel syndrome, sacroiliac joint pain, back pain from pregnancy, tendonitis, rotator cuff pain, headaches, poor posture and plantar fasciitis.
Some of the treatment methods used by chiropractors include but are not limited to manual adjustments, adjustments using the activator, joint mobilizations, active release of muscles, acupuncture, laser therapy and custom orthotics.
Please stay tuned for our next blog post to learn more about these different treatment methods and how they can help you!
