A chiropractor is a medical practitioner that aims to help your body heal through manipulations, particularly of the spine. Through skillful manipulations, a chiropractor relieves musculoskeletal pain, as well as a plethora of other health issues, such as headaches, sleep apnea, and joint stiffness. The chiropractor you choose makes a big difference. In the wrong hands, you won’t experience the benefits of chiropractic care.
To help you in your selection process, here are a few things to look for in a chiropractor.
License and Credentials
A chiropractor is a graduate of chiropractic college and holds a doctor of chiropractic (D.C) degree. Look for this title before adding a chiropractor to your list of potentials. With a D.C degree, you know the practitioner has had four years of education and training in chiropractic medicine. They also need to pass a licensure exam to practice chiropractic medicine. With the proper credentials and licensing, you can rest assured the practitioner is qualified as a chiropractor.
Experience in a Wide Range of Treatment Styles
There are different chiropractic techniques. Some chiropractors perform manipulation with their hands and others use instruments. Some also offer acupuncture, massage therapy, myofascial release, laser therapy, and more. Some use low-force adjustments, while others make sure the joints pop during manipulation. It would be convenient to choose a chiropractor that offers a variety of treatment techniques and not just hands-on spinal manipulation. If you want to make an informed decision, it’s best to discuss the types of treatments and techniques the doctor uses during your consultation.
Experience Treating Your Specific Condition
Feel free to ask the doctor about their experience treating patients with your specific condition or symptoms, as well as their success rate. Chiropractors can treat sprains, neck and back pain, shoulder pain, tailbone pain, disc problems, myofascial pain, sciatica, tension headaches, whiplash, sleep apnea, and much more, but some may have more experience in treating specific conditions than others.
Good Communication Style
Another important quality to look out for is the chiropractor’s communication style. There is no doubt that you will have a terrible first experience with chiropractic treatment if your communication styles are incompatible. As a patient, you deserve to have a good rapport with your healthcare provider and be comfortable around them. Is the doctor friendly and eager to get to know you? Does the doctor listen to your concerns? Does the doctor take time to explain to you each treatment, including its risks? Do you feel empowered to choose treatment or do you feel forced? Does the doctor make you feel cared for? Ask yourself these questions to determine if they are the right fit for you.
Experienced Chiropractors in Delaware
Our chiropractors at Delaware Back Pain & Sports Rehabilitation Centers are highly skilled and experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of spine disorders. We can pinpoint the underlying cause of pain and individualize our treatment according to your needs. Find out how chiropractic treatment can help with your pain. Call our clinic near you or use our appointment request form now.
