Find a Chiropractor
If you suffer from lower back pain as a result of an injury or a degenerative spinal issue, you may be considering visiting a chiropractor. These specialists assist individuals with pain assessment and making spinal adjustments that may reduce daily discomfort. If you have never seen a chiropractor before, there are a few facts you may want to learn before your appointment so you can arrive feeling confident and well informed.
- Preparation Is Usually Not Required
When you make your initial appointment, you will likely be given a bit of information over the phone about what you need to bring with you to the office, such as your insurance card, a list of medications you currently take and any medical papers you believe your chiropractor will want to review. In most cases, no previous preparation is required and you will likely be able to rest before your appointment.
- Not All Adjustments Are the Same
While you might have some idea of what a chiropractic adjustment is, it may surprise you to learn that not all manipulations are performed in the same manner. They usually vary from person to person, and the movements made by the chiropractor may depend on your age, pain level, spinal issue and overall health. It is wise to ask questions about your treatment before the chiropractor begins the adjustments.
- Popping or Cracking Noises Are Usually Normal
You may have heard about chiropractic patients hearing popping or cracking sounds when they undergo a spinal adjustment. However, these noises are usually nothing to be concerned about. When adjustments are made, air is displaced within the spinal vertebrae. This is known as joint cavitation and is a common occurrence during treatment, especially if you have problems with displaced vertebrae.
- Adjustments Are Typically Painless
If you are worried about any pain you might feel during a spinal adjustment, talking with your chiropractor beforehand can put your mind at ease. Most treatments are painless, and any discomfort you might experience is usually short-lived as your spine and the surrounding muscles adjust to the manipulations.
- Your Chiropractor May Take X-Rays
Before you undergo a spinal adjustment, your chiropractor may order X-rays of your spine, especially if you have had previous back surgery or injury that has recently healed. This is usually a precaution and may give the chiropractic specialist insight into your medical history, which may prevent him or her from making adjustments that may cause you further pain or injury.
Learning about an upcoming spinal adjustment can help you feel confident about what to expect.