Who is a chiropractor, anyway?
Many conditions that affect the nervous system or musculoskeletal systems can be treated by a chiropractor. A chiropractor is a doctor who treats any type of dysfunction or muscle, bone, or joint pain. These are the most common reasons to have a chiropractor adjust:
Lower back pain
Neck pain.
Muscle pain.
Headaches.
Chiropractors can also treat musculoskeletal problems anywhere on your body, including your head, jaws, shoulders and elbows, wrists, hips, pelvis, knees and ankles, and your hips and pelvis.
What is a chiropractor?
Chiropractors can treat strains, aches, creaks, and other problems. A chiropractor can help you with musculoskeletal problems.
A chiropractor might offer the following treatment:
Adjustments To gently realign the joints to reduce pain and increase range-of-motion
Soft tissue therapy: To relax tight muscle spasms, release tension and loosen the connective tissues that surround each muscle (fascia).
Exercises and stretching: To restore joint mobility and stability.
Joint bracing/taping: Kinesio tapping: To support injured joints and muscles while they heal.
Referrals for integrative medicine specialists: To receive guidance on diet, nutrition, and healthy eating habits to manage weight and reduce inflammation
Education and Training
The Doctor of Chiropractic degree in the United States is typically a four-year program that includes three years of undergraduate studies.To become a Doctor of Chiropractic, a chiropractor must pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners examination and be licensed to practice in the state. Doctoral programs offer studies in anatomy and physiology. They provide supervision in the preparation of assessments and hands-on techniques for spinal adjustment.Some states require background checks and examinations to be licensed. All states require ongoing education as a condition for continuing licensing.
What conditions does a chiropractor treat?
Chiropractic adjustment is often recommended for people suffering from low back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Chiropractic care can be a valuable pain management tool. Chiropractic care ensures that the muscles around the joints work properly.Arthritic joint functioning can also be treated by chiropractors. The type of arthritis may require gentle manipulation by the chiropractor to increase range and decrease muscle spasms.
There are many reasons to see a chiropractor
Adults who don't want to take medication will see a chiropractor relieve or manage their pain. There are many reasons why patients visit chiropractic care. These are:
Preventing disease
Increasing energy
Strengthening immunity
Promoting overall well-being
Most people will need to visit a chiropractor six to ten times before they feel relief.
What to Expect from a Chiropractor
An assessment will be the first step in your first visit to a chiropractor. A list of questions about your health will be provided. Your chiropractor might also ask you questions about your health, such as your history of headaches, your sleeping habits, diet, and physical activity. A physical exam will be performed, including a check of your posture, arm and leg mobility, muscle strength, and any unusual findings such as a misaligned shoulder or hip.
A chiropractor might also take an x-ray. During a Chiropractic Treatment
There are over 150 techniques that a chiropractor can use, but most of them rely on gentle manipulation. Your chiropractor might position you differently to access different parts of your body. For chiropractic adjustments, you will usually be positioned on a specially padded chiropractor table. You may hear clicking and popping sound as your chiropractor adjusts your spine and joints with controlled force.A drop table is a device that allows pressure to be applied to your back and drops down. An activator is another piece of equipment that your chiropractor might use. This small device can be used to gently manipulate the spine.
After a Chiropractic Procedure
You may experience mild headaches, fatigue, soreness, and other symptoms for several days after your treatment.
Rarely, people may experience problems after a chiropractic procedure.
Pinched nerves
Herniated disks
Stroke
Most people feel immediate relief, and their health will improve over time. A chiropractor can help you to improve your posture, such as when you are standing, sleeping, or sitting at a computer.
If your chiropractor is not able to relieve your pain, or if the condition gets worse, you should consult your primary care physician. If you feel weak or numb, contact your doctor.
When do I need to see my healthcare provider?
You should immediately contact your healthcare provider if you experience unusual symptoms after a chiropractic adjustment, such as weakness or numbness, and seek immediate medical attention.
Note from the charleston chiropractor
If you are suffering from pain and need an alternative treatment, chiropractic adjustments may be the right choice. While most people experience immediate relief from a chiropractic adjustment after the treatment, some may feel minor discomfort. Talk to your primary care provider if you are unsure whether charleston chiropractic care is right.
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