What happens when you visit a chiropractor?
Index
Chiropractic treatment is the manipulation of the body’s musculoskeletal system to help relieve stress and associated discomfort and pain.
This is done by "adjustments" performed by the chiropractor. Confused? Read on.
On your first visit to the chiropractor, you’ll prabably be asked a lot of questions. Where exactly is your pain? When did it start? Have you experienced this type of pain before?
These questions are important to help the chiropractor determine what exactly is causing the pain.
Then, the chiropractor will examine you. The type of exam can vary depending on the chiropractor, but it usually involves a number of tests. This might include checking your range of movement to see if your spine is moving properly; orthopedic tests to examine your joints and neurological tests to check the function of your nerves.
Following on from the tests, the chiropactor will proceed to treatment. The most common chiropractic treatment is the "adjustment". Using their hands, the chiropractor will unlock stuck joints or move bones back into position. It can feel a bit like a bear hug. They might also twist your body slightly then push down. You’ll probably hear some pops or cracks during the adjustment. It’s okay, it’s the sound of the release of gas from a joint space.
If you’ve been debating about whether or not you should see a chiropractor, read our handy guide to choosing a qualified and accredited one.
Want to find a chiropractor close to you? You can find one here.