First of all, what is a chiropractor and what do they do?
Chiropractors are experts in spinal and musculoskeletal health. We focus on joints and the surrounding muscles to ensure that everything is working together optimally. Chiropractors help treat whole body injuries and maintain physical well-being using tools like manual therapy, exercise, lifestyle education, and more. Some (but not all!) of the most common conditions chiropractors treat include low back pain, neck pain, jaw pain, postural concerns, headaches, and much more! Just about everyone can benefit from visiting a chiropractor, even without having a specific injury.
What made you decide to become a chiropractor?
I always knew that I wanted to have a career in healthcare since I was young, but never knew what field of healthcare interested me. I was a competitive dancer since I was a child and was consistently seeing a chiropractor to help keep me feeling my best! When I was 14, I unfortunately broke my foot during dance and had to wear a walking boot for 8 weeks. I wanted to get back to it as soon as possible but felt weak after taking such a long break and didn’t know how to help myself! My chiropractor helped me gain proper movement and strength while being incredibly supportive of my goals, and I was back competing in no time! I didn’t know how versatile the care that chiropractors offered was until this point, and that is what inspired me to look into chiropractic care and begin this journey!
What can I expect on my first visit?
During your first chiropractic visit, we will start with a detailed health history so I can learn about you and what brings you into the clinic. This will be followed by a physical exam to help determine exactly what is causing any pain or dysfunction. Once this is completed, you will be provided with a personalized treatment plan to help you recover and feel your best. Treatment will be provided during the first visit as well. This process will be the same whether you are coming in with a specific injury, or just looking for overall care and maintenance.
What side effects might I experience after an adjustment?
Based on your assessment and other factors, part of your treatment plan may include adjustments to specific areas as needed. Adjustments are very light but quick movements of the joints that help restore proper range of motion and function of the area. Most chiropractors use adjustments as one of their many tools of manual therapy, and patients often find great benefit and relief with them. Similar to soft tissue therapy, you may feel slight soreness in the area the day after an adjustment. This is normal and should resolve quickly! It is very rare to have any other significant side effects, as there is very little force put into the adjustments. Should you experience any other side effects or concerns, your treatment plan may always be modified to what suits you.
Do I need to stop seeing other health professionals to see a chiropractor?
Absolutely not! Chiropractors are only one of the many health professionals that help treat whole body conditions. All health professionals have different methods, techniques, and focuses when helping you recover from any injury. Seeing multiple health professionals, such as physiotherapists and massage therapists while receiving chiropractic treatment will only be beneficial in helping you reach your goals. Health professionals work as a team to approach an injury from all ends and help you get back to feeling your best as quickly as possible and then keep it that way!
Once I start chiropractic do I have to go forever?
No, you do not have to go to a chiropractor forever! When you are experiencing an injury, the goal of chiropractic care is to regain full function and help you get back to doing all of the things you love to do. When you begin treatment, your appointments will be more frequent in order to jumpstart the healing process. As you continue to improve, you won’t need to come in as often, especially if you are staying consistent with the treatment plan. If you are seeking chiropractic care for overall maintenance and healthy functioning, we will determine the most beneficial plan for you. Everyone is different, and some individuals may need care more often than others.
Is chiropractic covered by insurance plans?
Yes! Most insurance plans cover all or at least a portion of chiropractic care. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered, and ask our administrative team for direct billing!
