For some people, when they think of a chiropractor they envision an older person visiting the doctor after they’ve severely injured their back and are unable to move. Other people imagine someone who has a stiff neck and is in so much pain that they also are unable to move. But the reality is that any and everyone should visit a chiropractor at least once in their life even if they aren’t severely injured.
There are many benefits to seeing a chiropractor especially if your work involves sitting at a desk all day or standing on your feet for long periods of time.
What exactly is chiropractic care?
Chiropractors treat people using hands-on spinal manipulation.
Spinal manipulation is used to restore mobility to joints restricted by injured tissue caused by injury, repetitive stress, or simply sitting or standing without proper support.
How does a chiropractor provide care?
During the initial visit, the chiropractor asks about your medical history and takes a physical assessment.
Depending on the nature of your visit, they will take x-rays. The doctor will then provide a treatment plan based on the results of your physical and x-rays.
The treatment plan may involve one or more adjustments in which the doctor manipulates the joints with pressure using a series of different techniques. Other options for treatment may include implementing different exercises and rehabilitation.
RELATED: 5 Signs It’s Time To See a Chiropractor
What are the benefits of seeing a chiropractor?
There are many noted benefits of taking a visit to the chiropractor and getting an adjustment. Some include:
- Improvements in your joint mobility and health
- Improvements in breathing
- Improvements in cognitive ability
- Increased energy, vitality and improved sleep
- Improvements in individual organ system function
- Improvements in circulation taking stagnant blood out and bringing new blood in
- Adjustments make tight muscles loose and loose muscles tight and improve the contractibility of the muscles
- Decrease in pain
- Relieves/improves prenatal discomfort
Yes, chiropractic adjustments are safe for pregnant women! Many women reported immense relief during pregnancy after being adjusted by a chiropractor.
How to find a chiropractor
Here are some suggestions from Healthline for finding a qualified chiropractor in your area:
- Ask for recommendations from your doctor, physical therapist, or other healthcare providers.
- Ask your friends, coworkers, or family members if they have any recommendations.
- Make sure your chiropractor is licensed by your state chiropractic board.
- Try using the American Chiropractic Association’s Find a Doctor tool.
- Schedule a consultation to see if they’re a good fit before starting treatment. Don’t feel obligated to stick with a chiropractor if you feel they aren’t right for you. It’s OK to consider several chiropractors before you decide on the best one for your needs.
Remember, whether you are feeling severe pain, mild discomfort, or nothing at all, you should consider visiting a chiropractor.
Lisa Evans is a 26-year-old faith and lifestyle blogger from Cleveland, OH. Lisa’s goal is to become a journalist, speaker, and author motivating women across the world.