Chiropractors take a patient-centered, whole-body, drug-free approach to treatment. One of the implications to this approach is that in order to get the most out of your chiropractic treatment, it's important for you, as the patient, to play an active role. Here are three specific ways to ensure you get the most out of your appointment with your chiropractor.
Tell your chiropractor about any and all health problems you're experiencing.
Don't assume that, if a health concern is not related to the main issue your chiropractor is treating, you should not mention it. No matter how little or insignificant a problem seems, mention it to your chiropractor. Often, these little issues are more related than you would assume, and they'll indicate to your chiropractor that he or she needs to tweak your treatment in a specific way in order to better address you underlying ailments. Chiropractic care is based on the idea that spinal maladies can affect multiple organ systems in the body, so chances are good that your chiropractor can address these little symptoms you've been suffering through spinal manipulation and other techniques.
Visit a specialist if you are a child, a pregnant woman, or an athlete.
Chiropractors can take additional, specialized courses after they complete their standard 4 years of chiropractor school. These courses, as well as hands-on practice, allow some chiropractors to become specialists in fields such as pediatric chiropractic care, athletic care, and prenatal care. While a general chiropractic will be familiar with treating children, pregnant women, and athletes, someone who is a specialist in one of these fields will be able to offer you with more precise care.
Specialists have seen more patients with ailments specific to these stages of life, so they'll be more likely to recognize and thoroughly address any issue you have. If you fall into one of these categories and have been visiting a general chiropractor, ask if he or she can recommend a specialist who may know more about the issues you've been dealing with.
Follow your chiropractor's after-visit instructions.
Since chiropractors take a whole-body approach to health, your chiropractor will likely recommend some lifestyle changes or steps for your to take at home after your appointment. This may include exercises to perform or nutritional supplements to take. Be sure to follow these instructions, and you'll likely experience more substantial healing than if you rely on spinal manipulation alone.
By visiting a specialist when needed, talking openly with your chiropractor about any and all health symptoms you've been experiencing, and following after-visit instructions closely, you will ensure that your chiropractic experience is a productive and effective one.
For professional chiropractic care, contact an office such as Gehrig Family Chiropractic Center.