Chiropractic and You
What is Chiropractic?
Chiropractic is a registered primary healthcare profession. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose, treat, manage and prevent disorders of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints and muscles). They have a specialist interest in neck and back pain. Chiropractors use a range of techniques to reduce pain, improve function and increase mobility, including hands-on manipulation of the spine. Treatment includes pain relief from acute and chronic low back pain, mechanical neck pain, shoulder and elbow pain, and frozen shoulder. Additionally, prevention of migraine and headaches, pain from osteoarthritis including hip and knee pain, low back and leg pain, and general aches and joint pain.
What Happens When I See a Chiropractor?
When you see a chiropractor for the first time, they will carry out a detailed assessment of your health. You will be asked for information about your current condition, and also about your medical history and overall health. Some of the questions you will be asked may not seem important, but will help your chiropractor to determine whether chiropractic is appropriate for your condition. If your chiropractor is unable to help or decides that another treatment might be more beneficial for your condition, you will be referred to your GP or an appropriate healthcare professional.
Chiropractic is Safe and Effective.
As with any form of treatment or exercise applied to muscles and joints, there can sometimes be minor short term pain or discomfort. In nearly all cases, this is due to temporary irritation and quickly goes away. Some people may also experience symptoms such as mild headache, stiffness or soreness, tiredness, or a temporary increase in pain after their treatment. If you experience severe pain, or pain that continues for more than a day or so after your treatment, speak to your chiropractor as soon as possible. The likelihood of you having serious side effects following chiropractic treatment is extremely rare. Research has shown that the risk of serious complications following spinal manipulation is extremely low. If, following an assessment, your chiropractor identifies any possible risks, different techniques other than manipulation can be used. If you have any worries about the risks or side effects of chiropractic treatment, your chiropractor will be able to discuss these concerns with you.