Back pain is an affliction that affects millions of people across the globe. Over the years, there have been various treatments touted, ranging from the relatively effective to the downright useless. The back is a complex area of the body, and it can be extremely difficult to identify and diagnose problems.
If you have booked in to see a chiropractor Downers Grove IL, you might be wondering what to expect from your visit. We’ve put together a guide to help you allay any fears or worries you might be having. Read on to find out more.
What Does a Chiropractor do?
Almost everyone has heard of a chiropractor, but few truly understand what they do and what they’re all about. Chiropractors are back specialists, they are highly knowledgeable medical professionals who are experts in the spine and how it functions.
The back is interconnected with various other areas of our body. Chiropractors are well aware of this, and will examine the full body, with particular attention paid to the neck and shoulder areas, when assessing a problem and working out a treatment plan.
So, now that we know what a chiropractor does, what can you expect to happen when you head in for your appointment? Let’s find out.
Initial Consultation
Before anything else, you will take part in an initial consultation session with your chiropractor. During this, you will detail your medical history and discuss, at length, the particular problems you are currently experiencing with your back. This consultation will give your chiropractor an overview of your general health, which is vital for any treatment as you move forward.
Preliminary Tests
After your initial consultation, you will then undergo a series of preliminary testing procedures. These are designed to both assess the state of your current general health and to begin diagnosing any potential issues that could be causing your back pain.
This process will include standard tests such as blood tests, blood pressure readings, and reflex tests. You will also undergo more specialized tests, such as those designed to evaluate muscle power, tone, and neurological strength. You may be asked to move in certain ways and hold specific positions, this is so your chiropractor can assess how your back pain is affecting your movement and your posture.
Spinal Adjustment
This is the step everyone pictures when they think of a chiropractor. After your consultation and preliminary tests, your chiropractor will likely then perform an adjustment. You will be asked to lie down on your front, and the chiropractor will begin examining your spine. Using manual motions with their hands, they will begin correcting any misaligned areas. This can be a noisy process with lots of cracking and popping, but it is rarely painful. After, you may feel an immediate improvement in your back, or it may require repeat sessions.
Conclusion
Anyone can feel nervous at the thought of visiting a medical practitioner. However, if you are suffering from back pain, it’s important to get yourself checked out. Use this guide to know what to expect from your upcoming chiropractor appointment.
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