Patients dealing with back or neck pain usually consider chiropractic treatment. This type of treatment is considered alternative care. Chiropractors are not medical doctors –– rather, they are healthcare professionals that provide examination, diagnosis, and personalized treatment for issues affecting the spine, nervous system, and other joints in the body. Before undergoing chiropractic treatment, you need to know what the process entails so you can make informed decisions.
The following are important things to know before undergoing chiropractic care:
The word “chiropractic” derives from two Greek words and mean “hands-on care.” Chiropractic treatment focuses on how the bones, joints, and muscles affect overall well-being. Chiropractors do not prescribe drugs nor do they perform surgery. They apply controlled pressure – often with their hands – to restore mobility to the joints. The treatment may also involve exercise and lifestyle counseling.
Chiropractors also provide treatments, including heat and ice care, deep tissue work, relaxation training, and exercises. Some specialists may stimulate the muscles using an electrical device. They also provide advice regarding overall health, including nutrition, weight loss, and healthy lifestyle modifications.
Chiropractors use hands or equipment for manipulations. The patient may hear a popping sound while undergoing adjustments, but these are not cause for concern. The sound produced is due to a change in the pressure inside the joint. The sound is also called cavitation, similar to the sound heard when cracking knuckles. It is common to feel sore or numb after manipulation. A warm bath and mild stretching exercises will help relax the muscles and relieve the pain.
Chiropractic professionals must graduate from college and study premedical subjects the same way medical doctors do. Afterward, they must attend an accredited chiropractic college for about four to five years. Their studies often include bone disorders, nervous system disorders, manipulations, anatomy, X-rays, nutrition, and exercise therapy. To obtain a license to practice, chiropractors must pass a national board examination.
Patients who visit the chiropractor will have to fill out paperwork and provide overall health information and purpose of the visit. After completing the paperwork, the chiropractor will obtain the patient’s full medical history, including the nature of the condition, routine activities, job, sporting activities, and other recreational activities.
The chiropractor will perform a full body and spinal exam, orthopedic tests, neurological tests, postural exam, and active ranges of motion to get enough information about the condition and make an accurate diagnosis. X-rays of the affected area may be taken to get more detailed information.
The time required for an adjustment depends on the complaints. Generally, single adjustment only takes about five to 10 minutes, but additional physical therapy and exercises may be necessary, which may increase the treatment period. The adjustment will induce the spine and body to remove the interference in the nerves and restore full motion for proper healing.
If you have additional questions about the treatment procedure, feel free to ask the chiropractor during the initial consultation.
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