What to expect on the first consultation?

Your first visit will last 45 minutes to an hour within this time the Chiropractor will take a detailed medical history and case history for your complaint. You may be required to remove some of your clothes and given a gown to wear. Privacy will be provided to do this.

The chiropractor will then do a full examination including vital signs if deemed necessary. When the examination is completed, the chiropractor will talk you through the findings and tell you what treatment they would recommend.

Do I need an X-ray?

In some cases, e.g. after an accident, an x-ray or MRI scans may be required before your treatment begins. This can be arranged for you by your Chiropractor.

What you need to know before treatment starts?

Before treatment starts, the chiropractor will explain:

• the examination findings and diagnosis i.e. what is wrong?
  
• the proposed treatment
  
• the benefits and possible side effects
  

What is Chiropractic manipulation or Adjustments?

A quick, specific comfortable stretch is applied to the involved joint. This looses the stiffness in the joint restoring proper function and mobility. This in turn settles the pain. A joint 'crack' is sometimes heard but do not be alarmed, as this is a gas bubble being released from within the joint.

Treatment also involves other techniques such as massage, soft tissue therapy, ultrasound, dry needling and exercise.

Will treatment hurt?

Patients can feel discomfort if the area is inflamed but often feel an immediate benefit afterwards. Some patients experience temporary achiness after treatment but this tends to ease quickly. Ice packing the treated area after treatment minimises any soreness.

How many visits will I need?

Most patients see an improvement in 3-4 sessions. Speed of recovery depends on several factors:

• your condition-some will problems respond to treatment quicker than others
  
• the severity
  
• how long you have had the condition
  
• your lifestyle/occupation
  
• how closely you follow you Chiropractors advice
  

Do I need to let my GP know?

With your consent, your Chiropractor will send a report to your GP, with details of you diagnosis and treatment.

Do I have to pay for treatment?

You will need to pay for treatment unless:

• you are covered by private medical insurance or health cash plan
  
• live in an NHS funded area