Many people have heard the word "chiropractor," but they are not familiar with what they are or what they do. If your family physician has referred you for chiropractic treatment, knowing what to expect on a visit to the chiropractor and understanding what they focus on can help ease the anxiety of the unknown.
Chiropractors are licensed health care professionals who treat musculoskeletal conditions, mainly through manual methods. While there are various chiropractic techniques used for treatment, their main focus is around the spine and adjustments to re-align the spine. This is also referred to as "spinal manipulation." Spine adjustments are done by hand to position the spine back to its proper location. This technique is not just used for the back; it can also be utilized to align vertebrae in the cervical (neck), the thoracic (torso area), and the lumbar (lower back) -- all different areas of the spine.
Chiropractors believe that the spinal column has a role in promoting health maintenance and prevention of injuries. Think of the spine as a tree, with the branches being other parts of the body. Because the spine is the main structure in which other parts of the body are attached, structural problems of the spine can affect other parts of the body.
Your first visit to a chiropractor will start out just like a typical visit to any doctor; you will be asked to complete a patient history form detailing your problem, past medical history, etc. The doctor is trying to determine the cause of the pain, so they can best treat you.
After you complete your necessary forms, your vital signs may be taken (heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, temperature, pulse rate). Depending on your symptoms and/or complaints, orthopedic and neurologic testing may be performed. These tests are done to determine the structures involved in your complaints.
Simple tests such as a straight leg raise test, in the case of lower back pain, may be performed. The chiropractor will raise your legs while you are lying on your back. If lower back pain is noticed, this is an indication for a herniated disc. There are other tests performed to evaluate problems affecting the pelvis, thorax, and neck, and joints. The chiropractor may also feel the spine for signs of spinal dysfunction, muscle spasm, hyperemia, trigger points, changes in skin temperature, etc. X-rays may also be performed.
After all of the tests are performed, the chiropractor will examine the findings and diagnose the problem. A treatment plan will be prescribed, which may consist of spinal adjustments, electrical muscle stimulation, physiotherapy (ice/heat), ultrasound, and exercises. A home exercise program and a review of your diet may also be discussed.
All of these treatments will help to restore your body back to its normal function and relieve your pain. A visitor to the chiropractor is nothing to be nervous about. In fact, it may prove to be beneficial in solving your pain problems.
Author Resource:-
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