If you are going to visit a chiropractor for the first time, it can be useful to know what to anticipate ahead of time. You may have heard of chiropractic care in the past from friends and family and maybe nervous to try something new. The chiropractic approach is favored by many as it entails non-invasive and alternative forms of treatment that aid both the body and mind. If you want to hear more about how chiropractic care can benefit you, consider speaking with a chiropractor in Palatine, IL from a clinic like Lotus Wellness Center.
What is the role of a chiropractor?
Chiropractors pay attention to your spine, how you walk, what you do for a living, and use medical history to assess whether chiropractic care is right for you. Chiropractors adjust the spinal column and other joints to coax them into a more optimal position (otherwise referred to as an adjustment or manipulation). Chiropractors are professional doctors just like any other and have to go to school and fulfill hours just like medical doctors.
Chiropractors specifically focus on the joints, bones, and nervous system. They also provide therapies that are not traditional for conventional medicine, including nutrition counseling, exercise therapy, spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and more. Many people turn to chiropractic care as a preventative and treatment approach, in addition to using it as a therapy in hopes of not having to undergo surgery.
What will the chiropractor need to know about my medical history?
Your chiropractor will inquire about your medical history. The intention of finding out information about your past health is not to judge you, but to ensure that chiropractic care is the correct treatment for you. It can also help your chiropractor understand what could be going awry and how to fix it. Your chiropractor may ask about:
- Why you are seeking chiropractic care
- What injuries you have had in the past
- Your past and current medical conditions
- Medications you currently take
- Lifestyle habits, such as stress, sleep, diet, and exercise
During your visit, you may be asked to complete a new patient form that answers the inquiries above. The clinic may be able to send you this form so you can fill it out in the comfort of your own home without pressure.
What will the physical exam be like?After speaking with you about your medical history, a chiropractor will do a physical exam. The chiropractor will assess your spine, move joints, and observe how you walk. You may go through a series of tests that determine your level of muscle strength, reflex, and range of motion. Your chiropractor may conclude that further testing is needed before a treatment plan can be created, such as an x-ray, blood pressure check, or blood test.
Going to the chiropractor can be empowering, as you are taking control of your health. There is nothing to fear when visiting a chiropractor, as the methods used are aimed to be non-invasive and often provide some degree of relief quickly.