|
 |
Return to: Home » Health Articles : What to Expect From a ...
Advertisement
Get the Beautiful Living Newsletter
What to Expect From a Chiropractic Visit
Advertisement
Going to the chiropractor for the first time can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you are seeking help after an injury. Many people are afraid of the pain that may be involved with different types of adjustments and techniques the chiropractor performs, while others simply don’t know what to expect from this nonsurgical approach. If you’re considering chiropractic therapy to treat a certain condition or as part of your rehabilitation program, here’s what you can expect from the first few visits:
The Physical Examination
Your chiropractor will perform a thorough physical examination to determine any key posture problems, and also to see whether your spinal column is aligned. He or she may ask you some general health questions such as frequency of headaches and migraines, sleeping problems, appetite and other questions about your lifestyle to determine if the spine and nervous system are out of balance.
A portion of the physical examination may also include light exercises to gauge range of motion of specific joints and muscles, and pinpoint any areas of pain. All of this will be supplemented with spinal X-rays.
The Spinal X-Rays
One of the most important parts of the first visit with the chiropractor is the X-ray of the spine. This is performed with computerized technologies and will allow the chiropractor to take a close look at any spinal misalignments that may be present. The X-rays may be taken at several points throughout your treatment plan to track your progress.
Chiropractic Treatment Plan
After the spinal X-rays have been reviewed and the chiropractor has assessed all health problems, he or she will recommend a treatment plan. The treatment plan and approach varies by individual chiropractor, and it may be modified as you go through each phase of treatment depending on what you need. Your chiropractor will recommend a treatment program that consists of several different elements including:
- Electrical stimulation
- Rehabilitative exercises
- Weight loss counseling
- Chiropractic adjustment sessions
- Dietary supplements
- Application of heat and ice packs
Chiropractic Techniques
The adjustments are designed to force joints into place and restore a healthy range of motion. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to achieve results including:
- Activator Methods
- Applied Kinesiology
- Bio-Energetic Synchronization Technique
- NeuroCranial Restructuring
- Concept Therapy
- Contact Reflex Analysis
- Gonstead Technique
- Extremity Technique
- Spinal Touch Technique
In some cases, the adjustments and spinal manipulations will be combined with deep massage sessions that further release tight muscles and help to improve circulation and energy flow in the area.
The First Adjustment
Many people are afraid of their first chiropractic adjustment, but your chiropractor will do everything possible to ensure you have a comfortable experience. The first adjustments may involve the use of certain manual tools that are administered to the joints and muscles, but are non-invasive. The first chiropractic adjustment may feel awkward, and even slightly painful at first. However, you will begin to feel much more relaxed as the treatment progresses.
Set up a consultation with a chiropractic doctor in your area to learn more about his or her approach and have your spinal X-rays taken. You can start getting chiropractic treatments shortly after the physical examination and spinal X-rays have been reviewed.
Published: 08/28/2009, Last Updated: 08/28/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.
Related Subjects and Keywords: chiropractor chiropractic chiropractic visit chiropractic therapy chiropractic treatment
Advertisement
Dissatisfied with our Health Articles? Have a health article suggestion?
Tell us how we can improve.
| Surgery Guides | Cosmetic Procedures | Find A Doctor | Patient Resources | Site Navigation |