The Healing Process Behind Starting Chiropractic Care

10 June 2015
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If you are going to the chiropractor for treatment for the first time, here is what you can expect from your initial appointment as well as the healing process.

Initial Appointment

During your initial appointment, your chiropractor will spend a significant amount of time going over your medical history. Your chiropractor is interested in your entire medical history because many medical conditions that may not seem like they are related to your back are actually related to your nervous system, such as constipation problems, liver issues, sinus infections and tinnitus. 

Your chiropractor will most likely also take x-rays of your spine in order to figure out if or where you have any misalignment. Your chiropractor will then go over your results with you and discuss the level of treatment you are going to need.

Your First Adjustment

Your chiropractor will walk you through your first adjustment. During your adjustment, your chiropractor will use multiple methods to help your spine get back in alignment. He or she may crack your back on a table, or use instruments to send pulses into your back to help with the alignment process. 

Your first appointment will probably be your longest appointment, since it will involve diagnostics as well as treatment.

After Your First Adjustment

Everyone's body responds differently to being adjusted. Your spine has essentially been moved back into a position it may not have been in for a very long time. This can make the muscles that support your spine feel sore. 

After your first adjustment, you should drink lots of fluids. This will help flush out the toxins that have built up in your muscles due to the workout they went through with your adjustment. You should also apply damp heat, or take a few extra warm showers or soaks in the tub to help your muscles relax and accept the new position your spine is in. 

Developing A Treatment Plan

During your next appointment, your chiropractor will see how well your body held the adjustment. Generally, your body will push back against this change. 

Your chiropractor will try to see you a couple of times a week for a few weeks until your body starts to hold the adjustments. Once your body starts to hold the adjustments, your chiropractor will stagger out your appointments - you'll start to go once every two weeks, then once a month, then just a few times a year. 

The idea is to get your body to a place where it accepts the adjustment and only needs to be occasionally redirected a few times a year. It takes time for your body to get use to being where it is supposed to be. Your chiropractor will work closely with you and guide you through the process. For more information, contact a business such as Fish Creek Chiropractic.