Chiropractors are professionals in the healthcare field that use techniques to keep the body and mind healthy. The methods focus on restoring physical function and relieving pain. Chiropractic care is based on a concept that the body can heal itself in most cases without intervention from medications or surgery, and especially when it comes to the spine. Through spinal adjustments, mobility of stiff or damaged joints can improve. Many people seek out chiropractic care because they have an issue with their neck, back, joints, or spine. The chiropractic approach can be utilized in place of conventional medicine, or in combination with it.
When visiting a chiropractic office, patients may ask their chiropractor these questions:
How is a chiropractor different?
A chiropractor is a medical professional, just like any other doctor. They went to school, had to pass tests, and fulfill hours in order to practice on patients. These professionals focus on the mind-body connection and how the spinal cord plays a role in our wellness. Chiropractors believe that the body has its own automatic healing mechanism, which can be enhanced through chiropractic care.
Will I need to do a physical exam before treatment?
Your chiropractor will not just jump right in to providing treatment. It will be crucial to your care that a physical exam is done first. New patients may need to complete initial paperwork, talk about medical history, and have a physical exam performed before the chiropractor will start treatment. Furthermore, if your chiropractor deems it necessary to do other diagnostics to identify and correct the problem, then an x-ray, blood work, blood pressure, or other tests may have to be completed first. It is imperative that these tests be done to ensure that a chiropractic treatment will be beneficial to the patient.
Can a chiropractor prescribe me medication?
Your chiropractor is not licensed to write prescriptions for you. While it may prove useful to take medication that reduces immense pain in the short-term, most chiropractors will emphasize the use of other methods. Modalities your chiropractor may recommend to reduce the intensity of symptoms include electrical stimulation, ice and warm compress, massage, gentle stretching and exercise, nutritional counseling, spinal adjustments, and more. Even though your chiropractor won’t prescribe medication, they will inquire about what supplements and medicine you are taking now.
Will I feel relief right after a chiropractic treatment session?
For some patients, one chiropractic adjustment may be enough to bring them a fair amount of relief. For others, several treatments may be required to feel lasting results. Your chiropractor may emphasize that in order to be restored through safe and effective means, taking a slow but steady progress is ideal. Chiropractics is the process of carefully moving structures and joints in a controlled way. Depending on your case, your chiropractor can let you know how many sessions it may take to yield the benefits you are hoping for.
If you are interested in seeing a chiropractor for pain, don’t hesitate. Get started on your path to recovery and wellness by contacting a chiropractor in Palatine, IL from a clinic like the Lotus Wellness Center.