Visiting A Chiropractor - What You Need To Know!

If you've never visited a chiropractor before, you likely have many questions. This article should help shed some light on some of the benefits of seeing a chiropractor, as well as address some common misconceptions. A chiropractic doctor provides non-invasive care to patients that are experiencing various forms of back and neck pain. In many cases, patients choose to see a chiropractor to get relief without the need for prescription drugs or invasive surgery. These professionals address joint, bone, and muscle related issues.

What Does a Chiropractor Do?

Chiropractors adjust the body to improve alignment and joint function. Doing this relieves pain, provides better function, and aids in the body's healing process. Chiropractors pay particular attention to the spine. In 2016 Chiropractic care was ranked the preferred method of treatment for lower back pain by Consumer Reports.

Top Reasons to See a Chiropractor

• Back pain is one of the top reasons to visit a chiropractor.
• Headaches which can be as a result of the body not being aligned properly.
• Joint pain.
• Muscle pain.
• If your shoes wear out differently on each foot.
• You have been involved in an accident.
• You sit for long periods of time each day.
• Your range of motion is suffering.
• You want to feel better, both physically and emotionally. 

Having your body aligned gives you an overall sense of well-being. Once the body is aligned, and the blood is flowing better, you'll notice a difference in how you feel. The above are a few of the top reasons to make an appointment. Many aches and pains are due to the body not being aligned as it should, creating joint dysfunction. You may not realize it, but you are likely slouching and sitting incorrectly. Over time this can lead to pain and stress on the body.

Is a Visit to the Chiropractor Painful?

The question of pain is on many patients’ minds before they book their appointment. You'll be happy to know that there is little or no pain during the manipulation of the body, or after. A patient may feel a bit of soreness in their joints after a session, but it is short-lived. Most patients feel better immediately after a session.

How Often Should You See a Chiropractor? 

The number of sessions needed depends on the patient's condition when they come in. 

Some may need a few sessions, some may require to visit a chiropractor once a week for a few months. Your chiropractor will work with you to come up with a care plan that works for you.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of a Chiropractor?

This is the question on top of most people's minds when they think of visiting a chiropractor. Here's what you need to know:

• Acute care is usually covered by most plans.
• You may have a copay at the time of service.
• Short-term care is generally covered.
• Long-term maintenance care usually is not covered.
• Wellness care to prevent issues is not covered by plans.

Check with your insurance company to get the exact details for your plan.

Are Chiropractors Doctors?

A chiropractor is not an M.D. However, a Chiropractor holds a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. They have earned an undergraduate degree that includes an emphasis on pre-med. They have a four-year degree in healthcare. Chiropractors are licensed, and they are required to obtain continuing education. Therefore, they are required to go through some of the same things that an M.D goes through during training.

Checking on Credentials

As with an M.D., you can check on to ensure that a chiropractor has a valid license. Visit the Chiropractic license lookup website. Click on your state and enter the person's name.

Professional State Licensing Boards Ensuring Public Safety

State licensing boards can be a valuable resource. Like medical doctors, dentists, lawyers, and other professionals, chiropractors are required to keep their license in good standing, which includes continuing education on best practices and public health. You can check that a license is in good standing and learn about any disciplinary actions taken against a chiropractor.

Does a Chiropractor Prescribe Medication?

A chiropractor does not prescribe medication. You have to see your M.D. for any medications that you might need. Many patients see their chiropractor in conjunction with their medical doctor. Chiropractors are well trained to recognize conditions that need additional testing or treatment outside their scope of practice. If needed, your chiropractor will refer you to a medical professional to help facilitate your care. If you have pain anywhere in your body, and your doctor has ruled out serious health concerns, visit a chiropractor to get the relief that you need. Aches and pains do not have to be a normal part of your life. See how much better you feel once your body is properly aligned. Your chiropractor can also prescribe rehabilitative exercises that you can do at home to help keep your body toned and flexible.



Article written by:

Five Points Chiropractic 

920 S Milledge Ave 

Athens, GA 30605 

(706) 546-7700 

https://www.fivepointschiropractic.com/