Understanding Chiropractic Care: A Guide to Your First Adjustment

Understanding your first chiropractic adjustment, featured image

Are you curious about chiropractic care? Are you wondering if chiropractors actually help?

Did you know that more than 300,000 Australians visit a chiropractor each week? So, if you’re planning your first chiropractic visit, you’re in good company.

If you’ve never had a chiropractic adjustment, the unknowns of a new experience may be nerve-wracking. But you needn’t worry; we’ve got your back at Liberty Health and Happiness (pun intended!).

Here, we’ll walk you through what chiropractors do, explain what you can expect from your first chiropractic adjustment, and answer a few of our most frequently asked questions.

What do chiropractors do?

Chiropractors offer a nonsurgical, drug-free approach to spinal care. They address musculoskeletal disorders through hands-on techniques like spinal adjustments and manual therapy, focusing on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system.

The goal is to restore health joint motion to reduce pain and improve how well your brain can control your body. This may help to not only improve whatever is holding you back at the moment, but also make sure that it isn’t something that keeps bothering you.

Chiropractors provide personalised care, tailoring their approach to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, from common issues like neck pain and headaches to more specific concerns such as sporting injuries, sciatica, and scoliosis.

Chiropractors provide more than just spinal adjustments. They aim to promote good overall health through lifestyle advice, personalised exercise plans, rehabilitation, and education. 

What should I expect at my first adjustment?

Your chiropractor will start by asking about your health history, goals, and what’s bothering you. This is a chance for you to share how you feel and discuss things like past injuries, exercise habits, diet, stress, alcohol/drug use, sleep, and current medications. This chat helps us better understand you for a tailored experience.

Next, your chiropractor will thoroughly examine your spine and nervous system. They will assess your posture, how your body is moving, and how well your nerves and muscles are communicating. This will allow them to get clear on exactly what’s happening for you. Is it a joint, nerve, muscle, or a combination of those things that’s creating the issue? They will also look for any underlying imbalances that might have contributed to that issue starting in the first place.

If necessary, diagnostic tests like X-rays may be recommended.

A personalised treatment plan will be created, focusing on your individual needs and long-term health goals.

What should I wear?

Keep it comfy. You’ll wear your own clothing during your adjustment, so it’s best to wear something loose-fitting that allows for easy movement, as your chiropractor may be moving your arms, legs or torso during your adjustment. Opting for shoes that slip on and off easily is also helpful.

How will I feel after my first adjustment?

Our goal is to leave you better than we found you. Many people leave their first visit feeling freer or more mobile and with some hope that they’re on the right track.

Generally, a chiropractic adjustment shouldn’t cause pain. However, you might feel some short-term soreness or minor aching in the treated area, similar to after a big workout or a heavy massage.

Your chiropractor may provide specific recommendations to help with any discomfort. This could include exercises, stretching routines, or the application of hot or cold packs. These recommendations aim to enhance your comfort and support the positive effects of the adjustment.

How does a chiropractor’s table work?

You might notice our chiropractor uses a special table when you visit us. This table has different sections for your head, upper back, lower back, and pelvis. When your chiropractor applies a little pressure, these sections can drop (just 1 or 2 centimetres). This use of gravity can give your adjustment additional force where needed to restore alignment.

Does Medicare cover chiropractic?

Some eligible patients may be entitled to Medicare coverage for up to five chiropractic visits annually. A referral from their GP is necessary to access this coverage.

Chiropractic treatment may also be covered for eligible veterans by the DVA (Department of Veterans Affairs) and under many private health insurers’ extras cover.

Your well-being and access to excellent care are what matters most to us, so we’ve structured our fees thoughtfully, aiming to keep your out-of-pocket expenses to a minimum.

How Liberty Health and Happiness can help

If you have any questions or if you’re feeling nervous about getting adjusted, don’t hesitate to let us know. We’re here to walk you through the process and address any concerns you may have. Please know that your safety, comfort, and well-being are our top priorities.

At Liberty Health and Happiness, we are dedicated to helping you and your family live healthy, fulfilling lives. In addition to chiropractic services, we offer counselling, sports therapy, and remedial massage to support your overall well-being.

Ready to take the first step? Call us or book online here to get started.

Disclaimer

All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Liberty Health and Happiness can consult with you to confirm if chiropractic care is right for you.

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