Why Do You Go to the Chiropractor?
People usually begin chiropractic treatment in one of two ways: first, you could have chosen to come to a chiropractor on your own because you are experiencing pain or discomfort and you have researched your treatment options or someone you know recommended this form of treatment. The second, way a patient finds their way to the chiropractor, is as a referral from a doctor.
Maybe you were in a car accident and the seatbelt wrenched your back. In this case, the E.R. doctor might do an exam to ensure there is nothing immediately life threatening. He or she may prescribe an anti-inflammatory, pain medication, and/or muscle relaxer and send you home.
In this case, the mechanics of the body could still be disrupted when you leave the office or emergency room. The natural movement and range of your joints needs to be restored, so you visit a chiropractor.
What Happens During a Patient Consultation?
Talk about what brought you to the office. This is the most important step, and should never be skipped. By talking to the chiropractor about your previous medical history, the doctor can not only determine the best way to treat you, but can also avoid repeating previous failed treatment paths. This can prevent re-injuring the same area.
Discuss your lifestyle.
More clues on how to heal you faster will come from this discussion from you chiropractor. This part of the consultation is most useful for people who experience chronic, pain or want a general wellness consultation. The doctor can recommend making adjustments to your lifestyle that will help you heal faster.
Diagnose the imbalance.
The reason you came to the office will determine the type of diagnostic tests the chiropractor performs. For chronic pain or a wellness consultation, the chiropractor might choose range of motion tests, which are safer and less invasive than an x-ray. In the case of an acute injury or trauma, of course, an x-ray can change the entire course of treatment and avoid further injury.
Go over your treatment options.
The final step of a patient consult is deciding whether or not you would like to be treated. You’ve just gotten a lot of information. Some people like to take time to think about next steps. You should always be in charge of your treatment and do what feels right to you.
In Conclusion…
Hopefully this has given you a good idea of what your first visit entails. If you have any questions, please consult your chiropractor or feel free contact Dr. Bart for more advice.
