What To Expect When You See A Chiropractor For Back Pain
If you suffer from back pain of any sort, then seeing a chiropractor is a great idea. Although chiropractors can handle a wide range of medical ailments, they are good at treating back and neck pain. So what can you expect during that first appointment? Take a look.
1. Evaluation of symptoms
Your chiropractor will probably begin by assessing your condition. They may place pressure on your back and ask you to bend a certain way, observing how you move. They may also ask you to bend and stretch in certain ways and tell them when your back hurts. Some chiropractors may immediately send you for x-rays or other imaging measures to physically see what's going on. But others prefer to treat based on their observations first and only recommend imaging procedures if you don't experience an improvement after a few adjustments.
2. A spinal adjustment
The hallmark of most chiropractic treatments is the spinal adjustment. Basically, this means a chiropractor will identify any vertebrae that are out of alignment and then work to move them back into place. An adjustment is not painful. Your chiropractor may bend your body in certain ways, place pressure on certain areas, or use a little hammer-like tool to move your vertebrae, but this won't hurt. You may, however, hear a popping noise as the adjustment is made. This is normal and is not a cause for concern.
3. Laser or blue light treatment
Not all chiropractors do this, but it's becoming increasingly common. They will shine either a low-powered laser or a blue light on the painful area of your back. Both remedies work in a similar manner. They help relax the muscles around your spine, which keeps the muscles from pulling on the spine and worsening your pain. You should feel a sense of relaxation as the treatment is applied, and that relaxation should linger for hours, maybe days.
4. Stretches
Finally, your chiropractor will likely show you some stretches you can do at home when your back is feeling sore or tight. They may have you practice these in the office so they can critique your form and ensure you're doing the stretches well before you have to do them on your own.
Chiropractic treatment is very good for back pain. Now that you have a better idea of what to expect, you can walk into your chiropractor's office with confidence. If you have been suffering from back pain, consider visiting a chiropractor for back pain treatment.
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