Everything you need to know about Chiropractors

Have you been thinking about going to see a chiropractor? Are you seeing a chiropractor for the first time? If so, we understand you may have questions about chiropractic, chiropractors and what to expect on your first visit.

We’ve put together this short guide to answer some of the most common questions first-time patients may have.

How to Find a Chiropractor

The first thing you’ll need to do is find a chiropractor, which is the same process used for finding other types of health practitioners. Here are some methods you can use to find the right chiropractor—these are not hard to use, though they may require a little online research on your part:

1). Ask your GP: your GP may know of a chiropractor who can help you. In fact, they may even be able to provide you with a referral, though you don’t need that to see a chiropractor.

2). Ask family & friends: another option is to check with family and friends to see if they’ve been treated by a chiropractor they could recommend.

3). Search online: if you haven’t been able to find a chiropractor using the first two methods, then try a Google search. You can try typing this phrase into the search box “chiropractors near me.” After you hit “Enter,” Google brings up a list of practitioners near your location. The search results may also include a map with addresses and other contact information for each chiropractor, which makes it easy to create a list of chiropractors you might want to see.

4). Use the “Find a Chiropractor” tool: this is an online tool created by the British Chiropractic Association. The tool works similar to a Google search. Just type in your post code or location, choose the radius in miles (the larger the number, the farther away the chiropractors will be from you), then hit “Search.” The tool will bring up a list of chiropractors near you, along with the contact information for each one. This is another way to either create a list or add to the list of chiropractors to contact. Of course, you can always get in touch with Freedom Care Clinic to see how we can help!

5). Check their professional registrations and qualifications: next, you’ll need to make sure that each chiropractor on your list is registered with the General Chiropractic Council, which is the governing body for chiropractic. In addition, each chiropractor should also be registered with a chiropractic association: the British Council Chiropractic Association, United Chiropractic Association, Scottish Chiropractic Association, or the McTimoney Chiropractic Association.

6). Research online reviews: you may find reviews for chiropractors and their clinics on their Facebook page, by doing a Google search, and sites that rate medical practitioners. These can sometimes be helpful when trying to find the right chiropractor for your medical condition.

7). Contact the chiropractors: the last step in find the right chiropractor is to call each one on your list. While this can take some time, it’s important to find the right chiropractor for you, while ensuring they can treat your health issue. You can also get a sense of how friendly office staff are, if they’re willing to answer your questions, etc.

Once you’ve found the right chiropractor, then all you have to do is make an appointment.

Can a Chiropractor Treat my Condition?

Don’t feel badly if you’re unsure if a chiropractor can treat your condition. That’s OK. If you’re not sure, then we recommend contacting the chiropractor and arranging a free, no obligation discussion.

This may either be over the phone or at the clinic. It’s a good idea to make a list of all your questions and concerns and be sure to ask if they treat your specific medical issue.

What to Expect on the First Visit

Seeing a chiropractor for the first time is much the same as seeing any other type of healthcare professional. The first visit generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes. During this time, the chiropractor will take down a detailed medical history. Next, they will perform a physical examination, which helps the practitioner make the right diagnosis.

Once the exam is completed, the chiropractor will recommend a treatment plan and explain all the details to you, including any possible side effects. They’ll also explain how much the treatment may help your condition, or they will let you know if they’re not able to treat the issue. In this case, the chiropractor may refer you to another healthcare professional.

What You Need to Know Before Treatment Begins

Keep in mind that the chiropractor will talk with you about the recommended treatment. They cannot begin treatment without your consent. Be sure to ask any questions you may have and raise any concerns. If for any reason you’re not comfortable with the treatment option(s), then you do not have to agree to the treatment.

In addition, this is the time the chiropractor will need to talk with you about how much you’ll pay for treatment and explain the payment options that are available. Don’t hesitate to ask if they offer a sliding payment plan if you’re short on cash. Many chiropractors are willing to help their patients with this type of payment option.

Does Treatment Mean Getting Undressed?

Most of the time patients keep their clothes on for treatment. However, there may be some instances when it is necessary to remove some clothing. If so, then the chiropractor will explain this to you and should provide you a gown to wear.

If you’re not comfortable with undressing, then be sure to let your chiropractor know before your first treatment. They will then give you advice on appropriate clothing to wear for your treatment.

Is It Possible to Bring Along Another Person?

Yes, definitely! You can ask a friend or relative to accompany you to the appointment if this makes you feel more comfortable. The chiropractor may also have another person in the room as a chaperone during treatment. This could be a nurse or an assistant at the clinic.

Does Treatment Hurt?

Most of the time treatment is painless; however, if the area is swollen, then you may experience some discomfort. If the treatment causes you discomfort or pain, then let the chiropractor know. They may be able to alter the treatment.

In addition, it’s common to hear “clicking” or “popping” noises during treatment. This is completely normal in chiropractic treatment.

After your treatment, it’s possible you may experience some aches and pains. These are temporary. However, if you’re concerned then be sure to call your chiropractor with any concerns you may have.

Is Treatment Done in a Private Room?

Chiropractors usually treat their patients in a private room; however, there are some practitioners who do use an open plan room. These will have several treatment tables, with patients being treated all at the same time by other partners in the group practice.

If you prefer to be treated in a private room, then you should check to see if the chiropractor offers this option before you book treatment.

Will the Chiropractor See Just One Patient at a Time?

Many chiropractors see one patient at a time; however, some do treat several patients at the same time.

Be sure to ask if the chiropractor will treat you alone. If not, then you may need to find a different chiropractor who provides this option.

How many appointments will I need?

he answer is it depends on your condition and what treatment will be necessary. Your chiropractor may set up some initial treatment sessions, and then reassess after a period of time. Some conditions may require just one or two appointments, other more chronic issues may take more time to treat and manage.

Some pain conditions and injuries may benefit from continued support over a longer period of time. Much the same as dental check-ups, your chiropractor may recommend periodic treatment on an on-going basis to continue to mobilise and strengthen your body in the future.

Keep in mind that you are free to stop treatments at any time.

Will X-Rays be Required?

This will depend on the medical issue. It may be necessary to take x-rays in order to ensure you have no other serious health problems with your spine or other areas. The chiropractor will want to check for fractures or tumours before beginning treatment.

In most cases of non-traumatic musculoskeletal low back pain, x-rays are not required. If the chiropractor says you’ll need an x-ray, then be sure to ask them to explain why this is needed before they can treat you.

What Types of Techniques Does Chiropractic Use?

Chiropractic uses several different techniques. Some practitioners may use their hands to make adjustments, while others may choose to use instruments.

In addition, some practitioners have a light touch, while others use quick, firm manipulations. It will depend on the chiropractor’s preferences, as well as your own. Rest assured that any adjustments are made only to help heal your medical condition.

What Happens if Treatment Doesn’t Work?

Before you begin treatment, the chiropractor should discuss the improvements they expect with treatment, and when these may occur. At each visit, the chiropractor will asses your progress.

If you don’t progress as expected with treatment, the chiropractor may suggest other treatment options, or they may choose to refer to another healthcare professional for additional assessment.

What Costs are Involved with Chiropractic Treatment?

Costs usually vary by location and the type of clinic. In some cases, the chiropractor may charge you for the initial visit and first treatment.

However, some chiropractors may provide you with a single combined charge. And all fees should be clearly explained in advance, and you shouldn’t be asked to pay any major up-front fees.

Is Chiropractic Treatment Safe?

Yes, chiropractic care is generally safe, as long as the chiropractor is professionally trained and registered with the proper authorities.

Keep in mind that is normal to feel some discomfort after treatment sessions. You may experience mild to moderate aches and pains, stiffness, and feel a bit tired afterwards. However, these side effects should clear up a few days after treatment.

Serious side effects are rare but do happen occasionally. B sure to speak with your chiropractor about any after-treatment side effects that are worrisome or seem more painful than they should.