1st Time to a Chiropractor? Your Questions, Answered!

By Krista Elliott

We all have to start somewhere, right? Going to a chiropractor isn't like going to a GP. Most of us grew up having regular checkups, so doctor's visits were really nothing mysterious. 

On the other hand, not as many of us visited chiropractors when we were kids. So as adults, we may be competely new to the idea of visiting a chiropractor. And, we're not quite sure what to expect. My own first exposure to chiropractic care was in an Archie comic, where Moose and Midge had grown up, opened a chiropractic practice, and were twisting and snapping poor Archie like a Christmas cracker. Not exactly a reassuring image. 

Of course, once I decided to give chiropractic care a try, I was pleasantly surprised. So, if you're thinking of visiting a chiropractor, but are a little unsure of what to expect, here's the lowdown. 

Your First Visit

When you first visit, you'll be asked to complete a health history form, much like you do when visiting any practitioner for the first time. This is just to get an idea of what concerns you might have, and if you have any conditions that the chiropractor needs to watch out for. 

Prior to being adjusted, your chiropractor will talk with you about any health concerns you may have, and will answer any questions you might have about treatment. From there, you will be adjusted on a special chiropractic table. You'll be fully clothed, so it's best to wear clothes that will be comfortable when you're lying down (this is a great excuse to leave the house wearing sweatpants). 

Wait, Is This Safe?

This is a good question to ask before receiving any medical care. Patient risk for chiropractic care is statistically low, particularly considering that it involves no medication and is non-invasive. If you don't feel comfortable with manual adjustments on certain areas, the chiropractor can use a small tool called an activator which provides a quick but small amount of force at specific points. I had one used on my neck, and it simply felt like a firm tapping. 

Will it Hurt? 

You'll likely feel some pressure during different parts of the adjustment, but chiropractors do their best to use as little force as is necessary. So you're not going to be beaten or bashed around. And when the adjustment takes place, it can be amazing how instantly you're relieved from the pain you walked in with. Afterward, you might be a little tender in spots, similar to when you get a regular massage. 

Is it One and Done? Or Do I Have to Keep Going?

Like any routine medical care or bodywork, a certain amount of maintenance will be needed. How much followup you need will be determined by the severity of your condition, your lifestyle, and other factors. Your chiropractor will work with you to set up a treatment plan that fits your needs. 

So, if you've been wondering about it, why not give chiropractic care a try! 

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.