Chiropractic

Chiropractic therapy is beneficial for several injuries and for general health. Unfortunately, too many people do not receive treatment because they are unfamiliar with it and feel scared. These people hear terms like “spinal manipulation,” and they cringe. Chiropractic treatment is not standard in adolescence, leading to misconceptions among older individuals. The leading misconception is that doctors of chiropractic are illegitimate because they do not rely on prescription drugs and surgeries, or because many people label their therapy as optional. If you can move past the biases, you will understand the intricacies of this medical profession and how treatment can benefit you.

Initial Exam and Imaging

Like other appointments, a chiropractor will need to examine you to determine the best treatment options. During an initial exam, he or she will question you about your medical history and any other current pain or injury. They may also ask you to perform a range of motion tests. If your injury is hard to discern or in a risky location, the chiropractor will ask for imaging, like an x-ray, to get a more precise idea of your problem. From these tests, the chiropractor can determine the best treatment plan.

Treatment Plan and Timeline

A treatment plan and its duration will vary from patient to patient. No injury or body is the same. For many patients, chiropractors will suggest a six-week plan, with multiple visits per week. However, the timeline is likely longer than six-weeks because a chiropractor may suggest continued routine care.

Sometimes, a chiropractor will review the imaging and determine you need further medical intervention. For example, you may go to a doctor of chiropractic for a sprain for them to realize you have a break. The chiropractor will never risk a patient’s wellbeing. They are medical professionals and will act as such.

Spinal Manipulations and Adjustments

Chiropractic care primarily uses two treatment techniques — spinal manipulations and adjustments. While both are safe, people still fear each therapy. Potential patients hear about bones cracking and then forego treatment. However, the cracking or popping sound is the release of air bubbles in the fluid surrounding your joints. The World Health Organization and other health associations state that chiropractic therapy is safe.

Should you go to a chiropractor? Yes. Chiropractors can help relieve chronic pain and resolve musculoskeletal injuries. However, before choosing this therapy, contact a local chiropractor, like a chiropractor in Silver Spring, MD, to discuss the specifics of your injury or pain and schedule a consultation.

 

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Thanks to AmeriWell Clinics for their insight into the chiropractic process.