What happens at a chiropractic consultation?

The consultation includes a detailed health history and physical examination to establish a diagnosis and likely causes. The following tests and assessments may also be undertaken within the consultation process:

Neurological
Orthopeadic
Medical and chriopractic tests
Postural evaluation
Muscle testing
Cranial assessment

Detailed questionnaires may be given to evaluate other areas of your health. If indicated, referrals are made for x-rays, MRI scans, lab studies or to an appropriate specialist.

After your consulation, at your 'report of findings' visit, the chiropractor will discuss your complaint with you and explain what you can do to help yourself and which treatment approaches may be most beneficial. Time is also taken to explain how any underlying problems can be dealt with.

What's the treatment?

A wide choice of safe treatments are available for people of all ages and conditions, including:

Hands-on corrective procedures - joint manipulation, mobilisation, muscle release, visceral and cranial work
Exercise / rehabilitative programs
Ergonomic and postural correction
Nutritional and lifestyle recommendations
Breath and movement techniques
Mental and emotional wellbeing advice

How many sessions will I need?

This depends on the length of time you have had the problem, its severity and what you want from treatment. With some problems there is almost instant relief. Most people start to feel better after 4 - 8 treatments, whereas more severe conditions can take up to 12 visits.

Acute care is for pain relief, which quickly helps the body to start healing. Visits are every 2-3 days until you are out of pain. If there is no obvious improvement within 6-8 visits, then you will be referred out for blood tests, scans or to an appropriate specialist.

The length of the rehabilitation stage depends on the complexity of your problem. By solving any underlying problems and stabilising your health, outstanding results can be achieved. Treatment visits are weekly, usually for 2-6 weeks. As your health continues to stabilise, the visits are spread further apart.

Once people have experienced the enormous benefits of chiropractic care, they often ask for ongoing check-ups, treatment and advice. This is similar to dental check ups or an MOT, to prevent future problems and optimise health and performance. Wellbeing care is often 4-6 visits per year.