“Chiropractic is a health profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal manipulation or adjustment.” (World Federation of Chiropractic, 1999)
Why should I go to a Chiropractor?
Chiropractors can diagnose and treat a variety of musculoskeletal disorders. By helping to restore normal function to the musculoskeletal system Chiropractors can help relieve pain and discomfort from various disorders which may be a result of stress, lack of exercise, poor posture and everyday wear and tear that all of us may experience.
According to a recent study by Bronfort (2009) into the effectiveness of manual therapy(which includes Chiropractic), moderate or high-postive evidence was found for the following conditions: Acute low back pain, Chronic low back pain, uncomplicated mechanical neck pain, Shoulder pain, Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) when this arises from associated musculoskeletal conditions, Tennis Elbow when this arises from associated musculoskeletal conditions, General Joint pains (including hip and knee pain from osteoarthritis), Migraine headache prevention and Cervicogenic headache ( headaches arising from the neck).
At Borders Chiropractic we don’t just aim to get rid of pain, we also try to establish the root cause and where possible prevent or reduce reoccurrence of the same problem.
What happens when I visit a Chiropractor at Borders Chiropractic?
1. Consultation and Examination
This will usually take approximately 30 – 40 minutes.
On your first visit, we require you to fill out a confidential medical history form. Once your chiropractor has looked this over, this is discussed with you and followed by a thorough physical examination which will include neurological and orthopaedic testing as well as blood pressure testing where appropriate. You will usually be asked to change into a gown for examination and treatment.
This allows us to determine what the problem is and also if there are any signs of conditions which need to be referred to your GP or hospital.
2. Report of Findings
After the case history and examination are complete, we will explain what we have found in the examination, what we think the problem is and what the proposed treatment plan is. This also gives you a chance to ask questions and discuss your problem with us in more detail. Feel free to ask as many questions as you need to ensure that you understand what you have been told. With your consent we will usually then commence treatment.
3. Treatment
This will usually take 20 minutes, however follow up appointments are 30 minute slots to allow extra time for patients to get changed.
At Borders Chiropractic treatment may consist of one or more of the following, depending on what is most suitable for your particular problem:
Chiropractic adjustment
Joint manipulation and mobilisation
Soft tissue work (this may include trigger point therapy, massage, cross friction techniques & active and passive stretching techniques)
Dry needling (using acupuncture needles)
Activator techniques (this technique is particularly gentle)
Blocking and drop techniques (including some SOT and cranial techniques)
Interferential and Ultrasound therapies
Taping and strapping
Rehabilitative exercises
Ergonomic and postural advice
Orthotic advice
Chiropractic treatment is usually painless and gentle. Occasionally you may feel more uncomfortable, stiff or tired for a day or so following treatment. Some patients on the other hand experience instant relief and feel more energetic. Both reactions to treatment are perfectly normal. If you feel worried about anything during or after treatment please do not hesitate to let us know.
How many visit will I need to feel better?
This will depend on a few things:
Your particular condition
How long you have had that problem/condition
The severity of the condition
Your response to treatment
How well you follow the advice and exercise programs given
If there are any complicating factors such as previous surgery to the area, severe wear and tear etc.
Your progress will be reviewed regularly to make sure you are receiving the most appropriate treatment for your particular condition. If your condition is not something that is likely to respond to Chiropractic treatment or if your condition does not improve as expected we will refer you to your GP or appropriate health care professional.