Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractic First Visit/Post Visit
If you are new to chiropractic care, you may have questions, such as: What is a chiropractic adjustment? Will it hurt? Will I have to get tests done? What questions should I ask my doctor? What is expected in follow-up care? Here’s a quick overview of what to expect.
Pre-Visit
What To Expect – First Visit
The main goal of your first visit is to have an examination and reach a diagnosis. You will be asked about problems you have been encountering and about the nature of your pain. The examination may include a few neurological tests, orthopedics teats, muscle tests, reflex tests, joint range of motion and palpation. Special imaging like X-ray, MRI or CT scanning might be ordered to further evaluate your condition status. Once you have been diagnosed, your chiropractor will develop a personalized treatment plan. The plan may include how many treatments you will need and what other procedures might occur. Depending on what is causing your pain and the severity of the issue, you might receive treatment the same day.
Does Chiropractic Care Hurt?
Chiropractic manipulation is a highly controlled procedure that rarely causes discomfort. Techniques emphasize minimal force and gentle pressure. Many patients report a popping sound during their adjustment. The popping noises sometimes heard are your joints releasing tiny pockets of gas. This is completely normal.
Post-Visit
What to Expect – Post Visits
How Will I Feel After My Session?
Any adverse effects are typically minor and brief in length. The likelihood of initial soreness or increased pain after a chiropractic adjustment has been found to be similar to that of starting an exercise program. There are several ways you can speed up the healing process after a chiropractic treatment. Self-care plans will help you restore your body to good health and help you experience the results of the treatment more quickly. To promote healing after an adjustment, your chiropractor may instruct you to:
• Use an ice pack on the treated area (for any swelling or redness)
• Try light stretching exercises
• Avoid heavy lifting
• Refrain from intense physical exercise for at least 3-5 days
• Drink plenty of water
Scheduling A Follow-up Session
Patients sometimes make the mistake of receiving treatment once and then fail to follow up with their chiropractor for the recommended treatments afterward. For optimal results, you should complete the treatment plan that you discussed with your chiropractor.
