What to Expect From Your First Adjustment
When you first go to a chiropractor, you can expect to be given a few basic questions related to your overall state of health. They will also ask you what kinds of pain you are experiencing, since most people have a specific problem and are looking for pain relief. Some chiropractors will require an x-ray, but this may depend on the nature of the problem, and how long you had it. Most likely, a chiropractor will also give you some information about the theory behind what they do. They believe that the body can heal itself when given the opportunity.
A realignment of the spine takes pressure off of problem areas, enabling better oxygen and nutrients to flow into the problem area, which enables healing to begin. When the pressure is removed through an adjustment, it will often take the pressure off of nerves. The pressure caused the pain, but nerves communicate with all parts of your body, which means that healing may also occur elsewhere.
You may be asked to stand straight so your posture can be seen, as well as the alignment of your shoulders and hips. The chiropractor will be able to tell many things just by looking at how you stand and walk. When getting an adjustment, the patient will lie on a special table, face down. The chiropractor may use an electronic gauge to look for increased temperatures along the spine, which indicates inflammation.
As far as what kind of pain you might feel after an adjustment, there often is very little. In fact, many people experience an immediate relief in their back pain, although there may be some pain that will linger for a couple of days. Many people who get adjustments often immediately think of going to their chiropractor whenever they have back pain because of the relief obtained.
Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of Army Medicine