What happens during a first visit to the chiropractor?
During your first visit to the chiropractic clinic, the chiropractor will begin by gathering detailed information about your health. This is called an anamnesis. You will be asked to provide important information about your health, such as your medical history, any surgeries or injuries you have had, medications or supplements you are taking, and your lifestyle habits (diet, sleep, physical activity, etc.).
The chiropractor will then perform a complete physical examination, which includes postural, neurological, orthopedic, and palpation tests. If necessary, X-rays will be taken to refine the diagnosis.
The chiropractor will use all the information gathered to make a chiropractic diagnosis. If your health problem falls within the scope of chiropractic expertise, i.e., the neuromusculoskeletal system, the chiropractor will propose a chiropractic care program tailored to your condition and goals. If this is not the case, or if there are contraindications, the chiropractor may refer you to another health care professional.
Before beginning treatment, like any other healthcare professional, your chiropractor will obtain your informed consent. You will be asked to sign a document confirming that you have received and understood the information about your health condition and that you agree to the proposed chiropractic treatment.
What health issues can a chiropractor treat?
Chiropractors are qualified to treat a variety of health problems related to the neuromusculoskeletal system.
Common conditions treated include carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains (e.g., elbow or ankle), lower back pain, back and neck pain, headaches, herniated discs, and chronic pain.
Shoulder problems, bursitis, epicondylitis, tendinitis, jaw pain (temporomandibular joint disorders), rib, ankle, foot (such as bunions and plantar fasciitis), hip, or knee pain, and vertebral subluxation complex are also within his scope of practice.
Chiropractors use various techniques, including chiropractic adjustments, to relieve pain, optimize nervous system function, and promote the body’s natural healing process.
What is the difference between a chiropractor, a physical therapist, and an osteopath?
Approach
Chiropractic and osteopathy are both based on the inherent ability of the human body to maintain health and heal itself naturally. However, chiropractic focuses primarily on restoring optimal functioning of the nervous system (often through the spine) to promote healing. Osteopathy places greater emphasis on the organs, viscera, and blood circulation to restore balance to the body.
Physical therapy specializes in physical rehabilitation. It aims to help patients regain their physical abilities and independence as much as possible so that they can perform their daily tasks and activities. Physical therapists are often consulted following a sports injury, car accident, or surgery.
Treatment
Chiropractors treat disorders of neuromusculoskeletal origin. To do so, they mainly use chiropractic adjustments. They may also use complementary therapies, provide advice on lifestyle choices to promote the patient’s well-being and recovery, and recommend specific therapeutic exercises.
Physical therapists treat patients suffering from musculoskeletal disorders, as well as cardiac, pulmonary, and vestibular problems. Physical therapy uses various treatment methods such as manual techniques, exercises, electrotherapy, hydrotherapy, and thermotherapy.
Osteopathy can relieve various problems, including joint and muscle pain, cramps, and digestive issues. Osteopaths use manual therapies, or gentle manipulations performed with their hands, to treat patients.
Taking X-rays
Of the three professionals, chiropractors are the only ones authorized to take and interpret X-rays. Physiotherapists are authorized to prescribe X-rays under certain conditions, but they cannot take or interpret them themselves. Osteopaths are not authorized to prescribe, take, or interpret X-rays.
Training and professional association
Chiropractors and physiotherapists must complete several years of university training in order to be licensed to practice their profession. Their practice is legally regulated by a professional order, namely the Ordre des chiropraticiens du Québec and the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec.
Osteopaths are trained in private schools and do not necessarily have university training. In 2023, osteopathy is still not regulated by a professional association, which means that anyone can use the title of osteopath. In the absence of a formal association, the Ostéopathie Québec association oversees the profession.
Can you see a chiropractor even if you are not experiencing pain?
Yes, it is entirely possible (and beneficial!) to see a chiropractor for preventive care. In fact, many people make appointments at chiropractic centers with the goal of maintaining and improving their overall health, even when they have no symptoms or pain.
Chiropractors are experts in the spine, muscles, and nervous system. As such, they can provide preventive care aimed at optimizing neuromusculoskeletal health and overall well-being.
A preventive visit to a chiropractic clinic can help you, for example, maintain good posture, improve the ergonomics of your workstation, or prevent the onset or recurrence of an injury. Pregnant women can also benefit from prenatal care, while athletes can receive personalized support to maintain and improve their athletic performance.
What’s more, you don’t need a referral from a doctor or other healthcare professional to see a chiropractor. So why not make an appointment today?
How many visits are necessary for chiropractic treatment?
The number of visits required to treat a problem depends on the severity of your condition and your personal health goals. In addition, the treatment plan proposed by your chiropractor is customized to meet your specific needs. This is why the duration of a chiropractic care program varies from person to person.
It is important to note that the treatment plan is primarily a “game plan” that guides you in terms of the care you will receive and the expected recovery time. It is not a contract with your chiropractor. This plan is flexible and will evolve according to your progress and needs.
In addition, your care program may also include elements that complement chiropractic treatment, such as exercise recommendations, suggestions for lifestyle changes, and other health tips to support your well-being.
How to choose a chiropractor?
When choosing a chiropractor, it is essential to feel that you can quickly establish a relationship of trust.
Other important factors should be considered, such as the chiropractor’s approach and philosophy, the chiropractic techniques used, and the proximity of the clinic to your home or workplace.
Feel free to browse the clinic’s website to learn more about the services and complementary therapies offered there, or ask your friends and family for recommendations or advice.
It may also be helpful to find out about the chiropractor’s area of expertise. For example, you can find a chiropractor who specializes in chiropractic care for seniors, athletes, or pregnant women.
All in all, communication and trust are essential aspects of the relationship between patient and chiropractor. If you do not feel comfortable or completely satisfied in this regard, do not hesitate to seek out another professional.