If you're considering visiting a chiropractor to help alleviate back pain, you're probably wondering what your appointment will involve. The following brief description should answer your query.
You might be wondering what happens at your first appointment
First appointments with chiropractors tend to last from 30 minutes to an hour, and generally entail a discussion about your back problems and general health. A thorough assessment examination will occur, and you could be asked to remove some clothing items and don a clinical gown if needed (typically, we ask clients to come in appropriate clothing sports bra or vest top). This physical examination will assess how your bones, joints, muscles and nerves work.
The chiropractor could request that you have some medical tests, like blood tests or an MRI scan and will be able to help you arrange these. You may require some other forms of treatment for your back problem, and your chiropractor may make a recommendation if this is the case.
So, what's the bottom line?
Once these investigations have taken place, your chiropractor will let you know whether chiropractic could assist with your back problem and offer a treatment plan. This plan will cover the number of sessions needed and give you an idea of the total costs. You will also be informed of any potential side effects or risks involved with these treatments. If you're happy to go ahead, you will need to sign an informed consent form to demonstrate you understand the treatment entirely.
What chiropractic treatment involves
In the main, chiropractors use manipulation techniques to treat back pain. This will involve very short and sharp thrusts to the spine. You'll often hear a series of popping sounds during the treatment, and these noises are gas bubbles popping in the joint fluids and are not harmful in the slightest. This kind of treatment releases pressure.
Other standard techniques include stretching, massage and mobilisation of the joints. Some chiropractors also offer complementary acupuncture treatments at the same time.
You should also expect to be advised on the sort of activities and techniques you can do at home to help manage your back condition.
It's pretty normal to experience discomfort or pain following chiropractic treatments, but this is nothing to worry about.
Here at the Wimbledon Chiropractic & Sports Injury Clinic, we firmly believe that the body can heal without surgery. If you want to learn more don't hesitate to get in touch today.
