The term chiropractic stems from the Greek root words “chiro,” meaning hand, and “praxis,” meaning “practice.” Chiropractic care is a hands-on form of care used to modify spinal alignment. It does not rely on surgical methods or medicine.
If you have recurring lower back pain or other muscle pain, you may want to consult a chiropractor. Here are a few things you should know before your first visit with a chiropractor.
1. They Will Discuss Your Medical History
Before the chiropractor treats you in any way, they will review your medical history. You should tell your chiropractor about any pre-existing conditions or health issues that you have. Your chiropractor may also ask about your family’s medical history. This will help them determine if the underlying causes of your pain are hereditary and if you’re more prone to certain illnesses that require extra caution during your treatment.
2. Expect a Physical Exam and Medical Tests
Your chiropractor will conduct a physical exam before the adjustment. They will examine the condition of your spine to learn more about what is causing your pain.
They may also recommend medical tests like computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and X-rays. Your chiropractor will adjust your treatment plan according to your results.
3. You Will Hear Popping Sounds During Treatment
During the adjustment, your chiropractor will instruct you to lie face down on the chiropractic table. The table is specially designed to elevate certain body parts to let them easily apply pressure to problem areas.
Using their hands, your chiropractor will quickly exert a controlled force on your back. Their focus will be on spinal joints that are misaligned.
The force applied to the spine will cause popping sounds. They are not a cause for alarm as these sounds are simply the release of trapped gases from your joints. This adjustment helps realign your spine and decrease pain.
4. There May Be Minimal Discomfort After the Session
You should feel instant relief after the chiropractic adjustment. Most patients feel no pain or side effects afterward.
However, some people observe mild soreness, stiffness, fatigue, and headaches a few hours after the session. This is because the chiropractor applied pressure to muscles and joints during the adjustment. Note that minor side effects are completely normal and shouldn’t cause worry. They will eventually subside after 24 hours.
5. Your Chiropractor Will Prescribe Aftercare Instructions
Your chiropractor will instruct you to do some stretches and mild exercises after the adjustment to help maintain alignment and muscular strength in your spine.
They may also recommend ergonomic improvements to your lifestyle. These can include ergonomic office chairs, backrests, and tables to improve your posture while working or sitting.
Other aftercare recommendations may also include:
- Putting cold and hot compresses on the affected area
- Improving your diet plan
- Engaging in stress management activities
- Using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators (TENS) for electrical muscle stimulation
Chiropractor Near Me
Are you looking for a trusted chiropractor near you? Look no further than the team of chiropractors at Delaware Back Pain and Sports Rehabilitation Centers. We can give you a pleasant and effective chiropractic adjustment.
Our chiropractors are fully licensed and are certified in different specialties from manipulation under anesthesia to pain management. You can rest assured that you are in good hands when you are getting treated for back, neck, and muscle pain by one of our amazing chiropractors. For your convenience, we have locations in Wilmington, Smyrna, Newark, Dover, Middletown, and Milford.
To schedule an appointment, call us at (302) 529-8783, or use our appointment request form to secure a consultation. We look forward to treating you!
