About The Chiropractor

What is a Chiropractor?

A chiropractor is a registered health professional concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disorders of the framework of bones, joints and muscles of the back . While there is an emphasis on the spine and its nerves chiropractors are also concerned with other general health conditions.

How does it work?

Joints in your spine can become locked or misaligned due to poor posture or everyday wear and tear. Symptoms may be bearable such as aching or stiffness but can be much more painful such as debilitating spasms and numbness. The body can also compensate which creates secondary problems elsewhere. Using their expertise chiropractors detect such problems, then using comfortable hands on treatments, they aim to realign the spine and restore movement and function to the body’s framework. This whole body or ‘holistic’ approach not only eases distress by controlling your pain but it helps get you back to normal and ultimately targets the root of the problem helping prevent it happening again.

What to expect on your first visit?

Your first appointment is called a consultation, lasting about 1 hour, during which our primary goal is to find out what is wrong . On arrival at you will be greeted by our friendly and helpful clinic assistants who are trained to guide you through the initial documentation and consent forms whilst you take a seat in the waiting room. You will then meet your chiropractor who will welcome you into their private treatment room and begin by listening to you describing your symptoms in your own words. Specific medical, health history and lifestyle questions then help the chiropractor build the best picture of your condition. Next the chiropractor will ask your permission to give you a thorough physical examination. They will observe your posture and movement and then feel and test your joints. Usually you are not required to fully undress however you may have to remove some of your clothing. Modesty gowns are available but we suggest wearing loose comfortable clothing such as vest tops, tracksuit bottoms or shorts. Once your chiropractor has gathered enough information they will then be able to discuss their findings, explain your diagnosis and suggest the best treatment plan. This is a good time to be interactive and your chiropractor will encourage you to ask questions. With your consent treatment can then commence on your first visit. On occasions however your chiropractor may require further tests before beginning treatment such as x-rays or MRI’s. This can be arranged via your GP or privately.

What’s the treatment like? Does it hurt?

Chiropractic treatment takes place on a specially designed table with the patient fully clothed. Treatment is very hands on but is easily modified to be gentle or more firm as required. The chiropractor will use various techniques called ‘adjustments’ to mobilise, manipulate, massage, stretch and release a range of muscles and joints of your body. Don’t worry if you hear clicking or popping noises this is perfectly normal. Treatment should always feel comfortable unless an area is already inflamed, bruised or swollen. With your feedback the chiropractor can alter techniques to suit you best. If there is any discomfort it is usually felt afterwards – a bit like feeling tired or achy the day after going to the gym. On the other hand many people feel more relaxed, revitalised or energetic.

How long will it take?

Recovery depends on many many factors. It will depend on what type of problem you have and it will depend on your overall health and lifestyle. Everybody’s body is different so here at The Chiropractor we take it session by session and are continuingly reviewing your progress. Generally severe damage will take longer to heal than a simple muscle or joint complaint. Recent guidelines, published in May 2009 by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), have suggested patients undergo an intensive 9 sessions over a 12 week period for nonspecific mechanical low back pain. As with many other health problems however, patient’s who smoke, have a poor diet and don’t exercise may not heal as quickly as those who make healthier lifestyle choices. You will get out what you put in. To be ensured the quickest recovery you must follow and comply with the professional advice given. The advice will be specific to you for your particular condition but roughly breaks down to three phases: initial crisis care, rehabilitation and maintenance. Some patients choose to stop their treatment once the initial crisis or pain has gone but we strongly recommend rehabilitation followed by MOT style maintenance check-ups. This approach has shown to give longer lasting results as well as a reducing the likelihood of relapse.

What conditions do chiropractors treat?

Chiropractors are best known for treating back pain and neck pain, whilst they do this very well there are many others conditions which respond well to chiropractic. Most notably soft tissue problems related to musculoskeletal conditions of the back (i.e. muscles, tendons, ligaments). There is also evidence, although more research is needed, that you may see improvements in some types of cervicogenic headaches.

Can anyone see a chiropractor?

Yes. Chiropractic is so modifiable that anyone and everyone can potentially see a chiropractor from newborn babies or pregnant women to athletes or the elderly. Chiropractors are considered a primary contact practitioner which means they have the knowledge and expertise to work on their own with all types of patients without necessarily needing support or authorisation from a GP. On occasion there are certain situations where chiropractic may not be the most appropriate treatment. In this instance it is the chiropractor’s responsibility to give alternative recommendations or referrals for your care which may involve contacting your GP with your permission.

Do I have to pay for my treatment?

Unfortunately there are very few areas where chiropractic is available free on the NHS so unless you have private medical insurance you will have to self fund your treatment. Here at The Chiropractor we prefer patients to pay as they go either by cash, cheque, credit or debit card. Our rates are deliberately competitive and we offer concessions to over 65’s, children and students. If you do have private medical insurance such as BUPA, AXA, HSA etc then check your particular policy with your provider and bring your documentation with you to your first appointment.