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Having explained your treatment plan, the chiropractor commences treatment. This consists of various muscle and joint techniques,
such as soft tissue work and manipulation. Chiropractic
manipulation is also called an adjustment, which is a small
but very fast movement of the joints which are restricted.
This is sometimes accompanied by a "popping" or "clicking"
sound. Chiropractic treatment is generally painless, although patients may feel some soreness if their muscles are very inflamed. The aim of the treatment is to restore normal mobility and function to the restricted joints, which in turn will allow the inflammation to clear, the muscles to relax and the ligaments and tendons to heal. Chiropractic treatment is suitable for all ages and is adapted to each individual patient. As every back problem is different, so is every treatment plan. No two patients are treated exactly the same as each treatment is 'tailor made'. Throughout the treatment you will be continually monitored and reassessed to make sure you are progressing according to plan, and occasionally it is necessary to slightly change the approach, to make sure you are making as speedy a recovery as possible. |
The treatment plan is normally divided into three parts:
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where the main aim is to give relief from pain, stiffness and inflammation. Usually the chiropractor will want you to stay gently mobile during these first few weeks of treatment, without doing heavy exercise such as running, gardening, sports etc. Often you will be advised on using ice packs to reduce inflammation. Initially you may experience some discomfort after treatment. This is usually not from the treatment itself, but from the way your body is reacting to its new way of moving. It is a bit like the soreness you may get if you exercise after a long break of not doing much. When you start to improve we go on to rehabilitation |
where the main aim is the restore strength to the muscles and maintain mobility in the joints. You will be treated much less frequently and you will be given exercises and advice to help you improve further. |
where the main aim is to maintain your improved function and mobility and to keep you pain free. This is done mainly by yourself by following the chiropractors advice. If you have had a long term condition it is often useful to have a regular check up - just like you do with your dentist. Any changes in your muscles and joints can then be detected and corrected before you start to experience pain and disability again. |
HOW EFFECTIVE IS CHIROPRACTIC?
