What To Expect
Consultation
On your first visit we will ask you to fill in a form to give information that may help us with the diagnoses and management of your condition. Once you have completed the form we will start your consultation. This will include several questions to help us determine the nature of your condition and whether we can help you Chiropractic care. Some of these questions may appear are irrelevant to you, but they are important to help us determining the nature of your condition. Occasionally we may refer you to your GP or relevant specialist if it appears we cannot help. Your details are of course confidential and we will not allow anyone to see them without your permission.
Examination
Once your case history is complete, we will examine the relevant area to confirm any early ideas of your problem. In this examination we will focus on your neuromusculoskeletal system (nerves, muscles and joints), but it may also be necessary for us to check other things such as your heart, lungs and abdomen to rule out other causes.
Gowns will be available for you to wear for the examination and any treatment that may follow. It is very unlikely that there is a need for us to examine intimate areas, however if this is required, you will be referred to your GP.
It is normal for us to ask you to give your permission in the form of a signature before we carry out the examination, treatment and if any letter needs to sent to your GP or specialist.
The Report of Findings
After the examination is complete, we will explain to you what your condition or problem is. When treatment is required, we will also be explained this together with the likely outcome of the treatment.
At this time it is often a good point to ask us any questions that you may have. Once you are happy with everything, we usually can do a treatment on the same day.
Very occasionally we may need further information from your GP before we commence with your treatment. Occasionally you may be referred for an X-ray, MRI or CT scan. We will talk about this at this time.
Treatment
Our Chiropractic treatments vary depending upon your problem. They often involves specific adjustments and manipulations to free your joints, realign your spine, and relieve your symptoms. These are usually painless unless you have a high level of inflammation. Some of these require a short sudden movement done by your chiropractor’s hands. It is not unusual for you to hear an audible ‘crack’ sound as your joint releases. Other adjustments you may have as part of your treatment involve flicks and stretches.
You muscles are also treated by massage techniques, medical acupuncture and stretching. Although often not the cause of your problem, by releasing tension in them, your condition can quickly settle.
After your treatment generally you should will feel much relief and a feeling of well-being. However, it is not unusual for you to be a little sore the next day for several hours. If you have any irritated nerves or inflammation, your symptoms may initially appear worse; however this is uncommon and we will explain about this beforehand.
We may give you some self care advice. It may involve the use or heat or ice, supplements, exercises or some general lifestyle advice. Also at Chiro Relief, we spend enough time per visit to help you avoid unnecessary additional visits. Additionally you may have more than one complaint. If so, these too sometimes can be treated together.