Chiropractic is a primary contact health care profession emphasizing differential diagnosis, patient-centered care and research. It is a non-invasive, hands-on health care discipline that focuses on the spine and musculoskeletal system.
Chiropractors assess disorders related to the spine, nervous system and joints of the extremities (arms and legs) and provide diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.
Chiropractors use a combination of treatments, all of which are predicated on the specific needs of the individual patient. After taking a complete history and diagnosing a patient, a chiropractor can develop and carry out a comprehensive treatment/management plan. The primary goal of chiropractic manipulation, also referred to as an adjustment, is to treat areas of decreased movement in the joints, thereby reducing pain and increasing joint function and improving overall health. Chiropractors will also recommend therapeutic exercise and other non-invasive therapies, such as interferential current and therapeutic ultrasound.
For many conditions, such as lower back pain, chiropractic care is frequently the primary method of treatment. Where other conditions exist, chiropractic care may complement or support medical treatment by relieving the musculoskeletal aspects associated with the condition.
Chiropractic care may also be used to provide symptomatic relief for patients with chronic conditions. According to patient surveys, by treating the musculoskeletal elements of such disorders, chiropractic treatment has been shown to improve the general well-being of the patient.
There are many reasons to seek chiropractic care:
- Back pain,
- Neck pain,
- Headache,
- Whiplash,
- Strains and sprains,
- Plantar Fasciitis,
- Repetitive strain injury,
- Work and sports injuries,
- Arthritis,
- Limited range of motion in the back, shoulder, neck, or limbs,
- Prenatal and Post-natal care,
- General health and well-being
What to Expect on Your First Visit
In order for a chiropractor to treat your joint or muscle pain, he or she needs to understand how your body functions as a whole. Specifically, he or she will focus on your spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system. The chiropractor needs a complete picture of your health history and overall current health in order to provide the best possible treatment for you.
Your first appointment will take approximately one hour, and it is recommended that you wear comfortable and flexible clothing. Future visits typically last anywhere from 10-30 minutes and this may vary from time to time and is affected by the type of treatment you require.
If you have recently had x-rays, an MRI or a CT Scan pertaining to your presenting complaint and are able to bring the report with you, this will help us to make a diagnosis and prescribe a course of treatment.
What is an Adjustment
An adjustment (also known as manipulation) is a precise and controlled procedure, usually applied by hand, to the joints of the body. Chiropractors have been specifically and extensively trained to perform this procedure. Adjustments work to improve mobility, restore range of motion, and increase movement of the adjoining muscles to relieve pressure and tension.
A chiropractor will adapt the procedure to meet the specific needs of each patient. Many people notice a reduction of pain, soreness and stiffness immediately after a treatment.
What about your neck?
How Many Times Will I Need to See a Chiropractor?
The number of visits you require will depend on your specific circumstances. For many people, chiropractic is an effective treatment when pain or discomfort strike – they may only require 3 or 4 treatments for a simple mechanical joint strain. For others, chiropractic treatment is like a regular tune-up, to help deal with the regular wear and tear of life.
We welcome you to get involved! We will find the course of treatments that is best for you and respects your health goals. Going to a chiropractor does not need to be a lifetime commitment, but for some people, continued chiropractic treatments help them to feel better for longer.