If you have been dealing with back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches, and other painful conditions for a while now, you may have already been thinking of going to a chiropractor. Going to a chiropractor may be one of the best decisions you could make for your health and relief from pain, as chiropractors will know what to do with your pain at the source. But when you visit a chiropractor, it may not be the same as visiting a general practitioner – for one, chiropractors may do a number of things to assess your condition, and this will likely include a physical checkup. If you are thinking of going to a chiropractor and would like to know what to expect from your visit, here’s your essential guide.
At the start of the visit
In the beginning, your chiropractor consultation will be somewhat similar to a regular medical consultation with a physician. Consultations may vary from one chiropractor to the next, but you will probably be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your health and general condition and answer queries about your health or medical history. More often than not, the chiropractor may also ask you to show or indicate where you are having pain and then make marks on a drawing or diagram of the human body.
At the physical examination
Once you have answered the questionnaire and have shown where you have your source of pain, the chiropractor will then give you a physical examination. They will simply check your overall condition so they can get a better idea of the source of your pain and discomfort. After the physical examination, the chiropractor will likely pay more attention to your spine, especially the area where you have pain. For instance, if you have pain in your lower back, the chiropractor could perform a neck examination since adaptations from subluxations or injuries in the area can often lead to secondary issues in another area of the spine. During the physical examination, you may undergo tests to determine your range of motion or movement, reflexes, palpation, and muscle strength, and you may go through orthopaedic or neurological tests focused on your specific complaint as well.
The plan of treatment
After you have undergone the physical examination, the chiropractor may already be able to develop a plan of treatment for your condition. The treatment plan from chiropractic services will consider several different factors, such as the extent or severity of your pain, discomfort, or injury; your overall health and physical condition; your spine’s condition based on any previous injuries or your age; and your goals and objectives. You and your chiropractor should be able to discuss your treatment objective based on what you require and based on your overall health. For instance, some people simply want relief from pain, whilst others require a more thorough and comprehensive treatment plan or regimen to enhance their overall well-being.
When speaking with your chiropractor, don’t be afraid to ask questions. The chiropractor will do their best to explain your condition, and they will also recommend the best approach when it comes to treatment and care. But if you have any questions or concerns, you shouldn’t hesitate to voice them. It is your health and wellness, after all, and your opinion counts.
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