People of all ages and backgrounds visit the chiropractor for a variety of reasons. Often, patients seek help to relieve back and neck pain, but chiropractors can provide assistance with other ailments as well. Sometimes, traditional medical interventions, such as medication, are not effective, so chiropractic care may be something you should consider. As with any medical work, there are potential side effects with chiropractic treatment. It’s important for you to understand what to expect at these visits and whether it’s safe to proceed.
What Happens at the First Appointment?
At the initial meeting, the chiropractor will review your health history. You should disclose any current conditions you have as well as talk about your symptoms and cause of the pain. The doctor will ask you questions and might take X-rays, an MRI and conduct other tests. The chiropractor will measure your range of motion and flexibility. He or she may also evaluate your posture. Based on all of this information, the doctor will establish a treatment plan, which will include exercises and the frequency of the visits.
Adjustments
More often than not, the chiropractor will perform an adjustment on you to help relieve the pain and stiffness you are feeling. The adjustments are designed to help with issues you have in your back, neck, shoulders, arms, and legs. You will lie down on a table, and the doctor will put his or her hands on the affected area. By using sudden, controlled force, the chiropractor will move your spine and other joints into their proper places. This will help align the spine and promote better flexibility. It is also designed to help the body heal itself.
Safety Concerns
You may be worried about the doctor moving your bones and joints around. Many patients feel little, if any, pain during these procedures, though there can be some soreness later on. The chiropractor has years of training and experience to perform these treatments. You should go in with confidence, as the adjustments should be safe and carry low risk. If you are concerned about this procedure, share your feelings with the chiropractor.
When You Should Avoid a Visit
Chiropractic work may be unsafe for some patients. If you have recently had surgery, you should not get an adjustment. Patients will arthritis should also avoid chiropractic work.
The bottom line is that no medical work is guaranteed to be pain-free or have no side effects. However, if you find a well-respected, competent chiropractor, like a chiropractor in Dundalk, MD, you should feel at ease with getting chiropractic treatment.
Thanks to Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic for their insight into how safe chiropractic adjustments are.
