Back Pain Too Much to Bear? It May Be Time to Talk to a Chiropractor
If it's been some time since you "tweaked" your back while lifting a heavy weight at home, you may have been dealing with pain that simply won't go away. You've tried soaking in a hot bath, a simple massage, topical applications and all manner of stretching exercises and still, the annoying pain remains. You may even have talked to your family doctor to see what they can advise, but because the issue does not appear to be critical, you haven't made much headway. Perhaps it's time for you to consider an alternative approach altogether and get in touch with a local chiropractor for their advice. If this is the first time for you, what should you expect from this encounter?
Phone Consultation
A chiropractor will usually take the time to talk with you on the phone before you actually meet them in person. They will want to hear about your condition and learn more about you, and this will be a chance for you to discuss your symptoms and hear some initial advice. This may help you to get a good feeling for the practitioner and you can then set up your first appointment.
Full Detail
Don't hold anything back during your initial consultation, as the expert will need to know all about your medical history, whether you've had any previous surgery or have injured this area before. They will also want to know if back pain "runs in the family" or if somebody close to you has received chiropractic care for a similar situation in the past.
Initial Analysis
To begin with, expect a range of initial tests to help determine your range of motion, blood pressure and other reflexes. The chiropractor will also analyse your posture to see if that can give some insight and they will then be able to suggest a range of treatment options.
Other Tests
It may be necessary for you to stage a diagnostic test or two, including a number of different x-rays. Often, the chiropractor will have this equipment in the office, but if not then you may have to get these tests elsewhere before further analysis.
Treatment
When all of these tests have been completed and the initial consultation draws to a close, then the chiropractor will give you their opinion. They may advise a form of treatment right away, and even though you don't have to proceed at that moment, you may be truly fed up with the discomfort and want relief right now.
Action Time
There are likely a number of chiropractors in your vicinity and you should do your research before you reach out to one. Talk with an expert on the phone and they will be able to help you plot your next course of action.